Tata Zest Global NCAP: 0 for non-airbag, 4 for airbag version

Global NCAP recently crash tested the Tata Zest compact sedan. The standard entry-level model which doesn't come with airbags scored a disappointing zero star rating. Global NCAP then gave Tata Motors the opportunity to send an improved version of the Zest with more safety features.

The Indian automaker responded by sending a new model that had some structural improvements and came equipped with two airbags and two seatbelt pretensioners. The structurally improved model performed significantly better, and earned 4 stars in adult occupant safety.

Tata Motors also added some child restraint systems for the test model, which increased the child safety rating to 2 stars, as compared to the 1 star rating earned by the standard production model.

Tata Motors has confirmed that the structural improvements made to the Zest for the Global NCAP tests will soon be incorporated into the production cars. Meanwhile, Global NCAP has also advised Tata to make dual airbags a standard offering across all variants of the Zest.