However, the safety performance of the Groove has raised significant concerns. According to the New Car Assessment Program for Latin America and the Caribbean (Latin NCAP), the Groove scored an alarming zero-star rating in their recent crash tests, suggesting that potential buyers should reconsider their options. During the frontal impact test, Latin NCAP observed that the crossover exhibited an “unstable structure” and offered only “marginal” protection to the driver’s chest, knees, and feet.
The side impact test further revealed “relevant intrusion in the passenger compartment,” highlighting the car’s questionable structural integrity. Latin NCAP noted that the Groove comes standard with only four airbags, and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) are not available, even as optional features. Additionally, the small SUV received poor marks in pedestrian safety, providing “weak and marginal” protection to the head, with “poor” upper leg protection, though lower leg protection ranged from “good” to “marginal.”
The Zero-Star Crash Test was the result of low scores across all major categories: 39.42% for Adult Occupant safety, 68.57% for Child Occupant protection, 36.37% in Pedestrian Protection and Vulnerable Road Users, and 58.14% in Safety Assist. Due to these results, Latin NCAP strongly advised consumers against purchasing the Groove unless Chevrolet makes substantial safety improvements. Latin NCAP chairman Stephan Brodziak was quoted as urgently calling for Chevrolet to address the vehicle’s critical safety deficiencies. He emphasized the importance of enhancing the Groove’s structural integrity and adding advanced safety features, advising consumers to avoid this model until these improvements are implemented and tested.
There may be arguments that producing a low-cost car as safe as a more expensive one is unrealistic, given the differences in build quality and safety equipment. While this viewpoint holds some truth, it does not mean that all budget-friendly cars have to settle for a zero-star safety rating. For example, the Dacia Sandero, a low-cost model, managed to secure two stars from Euro NCAP a few years ago. Additionally, even the Chinese-built Dacia Spring electric city car received a single star in crash tests.
It seems inevitable that cost-saving compromises affect the production of more affordable vehicles. However, the repercussions can be severe, as highlighted by crash test programs that expose the dangers of zero-star-rated cars. Such results might steer potential buyers towards safer alternatives, ultimately impacting the profits of manufacturers.
Chevrolet is not the only prominent brand encountering these safety challenges. In 2021, the Mitsubishi Express van made headlines as it became the first vehicle since 1993 to earn a Zero-Star Crash Test from the Australasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP). Additionally, models like the MG 5 and Mahindra Scorpio have also recently received low ratings based on ANCAP’s stringent testing criteria.
