Following the latest results of Latin NCAP crash tests, Nissan has withdrawn the basic version of the made-in-Mexico Tiida saloon. This variant, which is currently offered without airbags, scored zero stars in Adult Occupant Protection and two stars in Child Occupant Protection.

However, as a consequence of Latin NCAP’s test, Nissan has committed to stop selling the non-airbag version of the Tiida and will fit it with airbags and pretensioners. Latin NCAP has welcomed the carmaker’s decision, which will be a positive step forward for a model that is a top 10-selling car in Mexico and a best-seller in the region. In 2011 Latin NCAP tested the Tiida hatchback with one and two airbags that respectively obtained three and four star scores.

María Fernanda Rodríguez, Latin NCAP president, said: “Nissan’s decision to equip all Tiidas with airbags and pretensioners is important as it will significantly raise the model’s level of occupant protection.”

The Latin New Car Assessment Programme (Latin NCAP) was launched in 2010 to develop a regional system of independent crashworthiness and safety rating across Latin America and Caribbean. Latin NCAP replicates similar consumer testing programmes developed over the last thirty years in North America, Europe, Asia and Australia, and which have proved to be very effective in improving the safety of motor vehicles. Since 2010 Latin NCAP has published the results of more than fifty cars in six test phases.