New-Gen Suzuki Swift Earns 3 Stars in ANCAP Crash Tests

The Maruti Suzuki Swift, one of the most popular hatchbacks in India and international markets, has achieved a 3-star rating in the latest ANCAP crash tests. This marks a notable improvement compared to its previous performance, where the model managed only a 1-star rating back in December 2024.

The tests were conducted on the Made-in-India Swift, reflecting Maruti’s role in global export markets. While neither Suzuki nor ANCAP has clarified the exact safety upgrades that led to the improved scores, the rating demonstrates progress in occupant and pedestrian protection standards.

ANCAP Safety Performance of the Suzuki Swift

The Australasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP) evaluated the fourth-generation Suzuki Swift across multiple categories. Below are the detailed results:

• Adult Occupant Protection – 26.87 out of 40 points (approx. 67%)
• Child Occupant Protection – 32.28 out of 49 points (65%)
• Vulnerable Road User Protection – 48 out of 63 points (76%)
• Safety Assist Features – 10.03 out of 18 points

The rating applies to all variants of the new Swift, except for the base-spec GL trim in Australia, which misses out on certain advanced safety technologies.

Old vs. New ANCAP Ratings

The improvement from 1 Star to 3 Stars represents Suzuki’s attempt to ensure that its best-selling hatchback keeps up with evolving safety norms in mature markets.

Safety Features on the New-Gen Suzuki Swift

The Australian-spec Swift comes equipped with several advanced driver-assistance features that helped secure the higher rating. These include:

• Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB)
• Lane Support Systems (LSS)
• Lane Departure Warning & Prevention
• Speed Assist Technology
• Dual Front & Side Curtain Airbags
• Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
• Rear Parking Sensors and Camera

However, it is important to note that most of these features are not offered on the Indian-spec Swift, where the model remains more affordable but less equipped in terms of active safety aids.

Specifications of the New-Gen Suzuki Swift

Apart from its crash test performance, the fourth-generation Swift brings design updates and new tech features.

Difference Between Indian Swift and Australian Swift

• Australian-Spec Model: Equipped with ADAS systems (AEB, LSS, Speed Assist), more airbags, and stronger safety technology.
• Indian-Spec Model: More basic feature set, with only dual airbags in entry variants, focusing on affordability rather than premium equipment.

This explains why the Indian Swift might not achieve the same ANCAP rating if tested separately by Global NCAP under current specifications.

What the 3-Star Rating Means for Consumers

• Improved Safety Credibility: A 3-star rating puts the Swift closer to rivals in global hatchback markets such as the Hyundai i20 and Toyota Yaris.
• Value for Money: Despite not achieving a full 5-star, the Swift now meets a safer threshold, reassuring family buyers.
• India Market Impact: While safety-conscious buyers in India are demanding better results in crash tests, Maruti Suzuki will need to localize these global safety upgrades for stronger acceptance.

Conclusion

The New-Gen Suzuki Swift earning 3 stars at ANCAP is an important step forward for the popular hatchback. While far from segment-leading, this performance highlights meaningful progress from its disappointing 1-star rating in 2024.

With safety becoming a crucial factor alongside design and mileage, Suzuki may now face pressure to align the Indian-spec Swift with its more feature-rich global counterparts. For now, the new rating ensures that the Swift remains a compelling choice in international markets while gradually improving overall safety standards.

Author: Neha Mehlawat

Neha Mehlawat is an automotive journalist and industry analyst with 10+ years of experience covering cars, bikes, and mobility trends. She tracks the latest launches, technology upgrades, and policy changes in the auto sector, delivering sharp insights that help readers stay ahead in the fast-evolving world of automobiles.