Nissan Micra expected to get 4-Star Euro NCAP Safety rating

While Hyundai still brag about their 5-Star EURO NCAP rating for their i20 hatch, don’t expect the same for the next-generation of small cars. The regulations for achieving 5 stars have been revised in 2010 meaning it is now more difficult than ever to secure the 5-Star rating, especially for small cars. The new Micra is a classic example. The car has been designed and developed primarily to be manufactured and sold in developing countries where simplicity, functionality, low production and running costs are more important than a 5-Star rating.

Aiming for a 5-star compliant car will mean more robust reinforcements and welding which will push up the costs. Moreover, the 2010 NCAP ratings require Stability Control to be fitted to majority of the versions to even be considered for a 5 star rating. Vincent Cobee, project director on the new Nissan Micra said: ‘We want to be competitive on safety, but to achieve the new five-star rating becomes outrageous. ‘We are making no definitive statement on the rating we expect, but let us say that three stars would not put us in the right competitive set.’

The current version of the Micra maintains a four star rating and we expect the new Micra to maintain the same rating. Cobee said the new Micra will still appeal to European customers. ‘The new Micra will be a value-driven proposition at the lower end of the supermini class, with a high level of features at a slightly lower price than before.’

Let’s wait and see if Hyundai make the 5-star rating this time around with their i20. In India though, the Micra will be one of the safest hatchback as it gets a Driver airbad as standard on all variants.

[What Car]