Tata Nexon Vs Skoda Kushaq - Crash Test Ratings Compared

Both these SUVs have received a five-star safety rating. Let’s see which one is safer of the two?

Skoda Kushaq and VW Taigun recently received a 5-star rating in the updated global NCAP crash tests, making them the safest crash tested cars of India. This just reminds us of the time when India got its first 5-star rated car - The Tata Nexon. While the Tata is the first car to receive full marks in the crash tests, the Kushaq is also the first car to ace the updated crash tests. 

As per the new protocols, in addition to the frontal offset crash, there will be new tests such as electronic stability control, side barrier and pole impact, and pedestrian safety. These tests determine the integrity and strength of a car and how safe it can keep its passengers in case of giving the particular car a safety rating. 

Now, the Nexon and Kushaq might not be in the same segment but their prices do overlap. The Nexon’s top-spec petrol-AMT variant is priced similar to the Kushaq’s mid-spec MT variant. So, here’s our crash test comparo between both the SUVs to check which one is safer. 

Overall Scores

As said, both the SUVs have scored five stars in the crash tests. However, the points for both the cars are different, because of the new protocols. Base variants of both the SUVs have been tested. The Nexon was tested back in 2018 with dual front airbags, ISOFIX, and ABS with EBD as standard. Currently, electronic stability control, traction control, roll-over mitigation, and hill-hold control are also available as standard. 

As for the Kushaq, it features ESC, ABS, EBD, traction control, rollover protection, dual front airbags, three-point seatbelts for all five seats, ISOFIX child seat anchorage for rear seats and a tyre pressure monitor system as standard. For Kushaq’s side tests, the six airbags-equipped top-end variant was tested. 

Also Read: Kia Carens Vs Maruti Ertiga - Crash Test Ratings Compared

Adult Occupants’ Safety

Skoda Kushaq

• The Kushaq scored 29.64 points out of 34 points, securing five stars for adult occupants’ safety. 

• The new tests have been factored in, which have resulted in more maximum points. 

• The front passenger has received an overall good protection, including the head, neck, chest, legs and feet region. 

• It offered adequate protection to the driver’s chest, legs and feet, but marginal protection to the driver’s left leg. 

• In the side mobile barrier test, the Kushaq showed marginal protection for the chest but good protection for the head, abdomen, and pelvis.

• The side impact pole test results suggested good protection for the head and pelvis but only marginal protection for the chest. 

• The footwell area was rated stable. 

Tata Nexon

• The Nexon has secured 16.06 points out of 17, giving it five stars in adult occupants’ safety. 

• The driver and passenger’s head and neck received good protection, while their chest region showed adequate protection. 

• The knee region and feet also received good protection. 

• The footwell area was rated table. 

Also Read: Hyundai i20 vs Tata Altroz: Crash Test Ratings Compared

Child Occupants’ Safety

The Kushaq receives 42 out of 49 points here, making it the first mass-market car in India to receive five stars for child safety. In comparison, the Nexon has received three stars. Both cars came with ISOFIX anchorages as standard, but the Kushaq also offers a three-point seat belt for the rear middle passenger. 

Bodyshell Integrity

The bodyshell integrity of both the SUVs was rated stable and capable of withstanding further loadings beyond 64kmph. 

The Kushaq is the safer choice here, scoring considerably higher in child occupants’ safety. 

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