Citroen C3 Receives Disappointing Safety Rating in Latin NCAP Crash Test
The Citroen C3 model manufactured in Brazil recently underwent a crash test by Latin NCAP, resulting in a disappointing zero-star safety rating, according to a report by HT Auto. The test revealed varying scores across different safety categories, with the C3 achieving 12.21 points in adult occupant protection, 5.93 points in child occupant protection, 23.88 points in pedestrian and vulnerable road users protection, and 15 points in safety assist systems.
It is unclear whether the Indian version of the C3 shares identical safety specifications with its Brazilian counterpart, as the manufacturer has not yet confirmed this information.
The tested Citroen C3 vehicle in Brazil was equipped with various safety features, including Electronic Stability Control, dual front airbags, seatbelt load limiters, ISOFIX child-seat mounts, and seat belt reminders. In the Indian market, the C3 comes with standard safety features like dual airbags, Anti-lock Braking System with Electronic Brake Distribution, rear parking sensors, rear door child locks, an engine immobilizer, and a high-speed alert system. The higher variants offer additional safety features such as speed-sensitive auto door locks, Electronic Stability Program, Hill Hold Assist, a rear parking camera, and a tyre pressure monitoring system.
Citroen’s C3 is available in three variants: Live, Feel, and Shine, with prices ranging from ₹6.16 lakh to ₹8.80 lakh (ex-showroom). The C3 offers two engine options for its 1.2-litre petrol engines: a naturally aspirated unit and a turbocharged petrol engine.
The naturally aspirated engine produces a maximum power of 80 bhp and a peak torque of 115 Nm, paired with a 5-speed manual gearbox. Meanwhile, the turbo-petrol engine delivers a maximum power output of 108 bhp and a peak torque output of 190 Nm, mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox. However, the C3 lineup does not include a diesel engine option.
In addition to the conventional variants, Citroen also offers an electric version of the C3, known as the eC3.The Citroen C3 faces competition from models like the Tata Punch, Maruti Suzuki Ignis, Hyundai Exter, Tata Tiago, Maruti Suzuki WagonR, Renault Kiger, and Nissan Magnite, making it part of the highly competitive compact SUV segment.With the safety concerns raised by the Latin NCAP crash test, Citroen may need to address the C3’s safety specifications to ensure the best possible protection for its customers. As the market continues to evolve and safety remains a priority for consumers, manufacturers must constantly strive to deliver top-notch safety features in their vehicles to meet customer expectations and safety standards.
