Chinese-Made Vehicle Criticized Following Alarming Crash Test Result, Yet Still Earns Four Stars | Carscoops

      The recent crash test by Euro NCAP revealed a significant failure in the seat latch of the MG 3, prompting a reassessment of safety protocols and discussions around a possible recall.

      This incident marks the first recorded failure of a driver's seat latch in the history of Euro NCAP crash tests. The failure exacerbated leg injuries, as the dummy's head reached the steering wheel after passing through the airbag. In response, MG plans to update the seat latch and airbag while Euro NCAP evaluates the need for a recall.

      The testing raised severe concerns, as the MG 3, a Chinese-manufactured hatchback, experienced this serious seat latch failure. Since Euro NCAP began its testing program in 1997, this is the first time such a malfunction has been reported. Nonetheless, the MG 3 still managed to achieve a four-star safety rating, leading Euro NCAP to reconsider its safety evaluation methods.

      The failure, identified during the frontal offset impact test, involved the driver's seat twisting due to the latch malfunction. Although the passenger compartment maintained its structural integrity, the unexpected movement of the seat heightened the likelihood of injuries, resulting in a “poor” rating for lower leg protection. Additionally, the malfunction hindered the assessment for various occupant sizes.

      In an unfortunate twist, the dummy driver's head went through the airbag and hit the steering wheel, which limited the head protection rating to “adequate.” Euro NCAP emphasized that minor component failures can significantly increase injury risks, especially in smaller cars with compact interiors.

      **MG’s Response**

      Initially, MG attributed the failure to improper seat latching, but Euro NCAP confirmed that the component had been thoroughly inspected before the crash test. The SAIC-owned brand has committed to implementing a new latch design in MG 3 production starting August 2025 and will modify the driver's airbag from October onward.

      Euro NCAP intends to retest the vehicle and will relay the results to the European Vehicle Type Approval office if a recall is warranted.

      **Euro NCAP**

      **Four Stars Despite the Critical Failure**

      Despite the significant fault, Euro NCAP's current evaluation framework doesn't impose penalties for individual component failures. As a result, the MG 3 retained its four-star rating, ranking it near the top of its category.

      The vehicle obtained 74% for Adult Occupant protection, 74% for Child Occupant protection, 81% for Vulnerable Road Users, and 69% for Safety Assist, reflecting advancements in driver assistance systems after less favorable ANCAP test results last year.

      The unexpected outcome has prompted Euro NCAP to contemplate modifications to its rating process, with future adjustments expected to penalize failures in safety-critical components, holding manufacturers accountable for unresolved issues.

      **Euro NCAP’s Recommendation to Buyers**

      Dr. Aled Williams, Programme Director at Euro NCAP, expressed concern over the findings:

      “It is alarming to find a vehicle available for sale in 2025 with a significant flaw in its seat latching mechanism, a crucial element of the occupant restraint system. This issue has been reported to the relevant Type-Approval authorities for potential vehicle recall consideration. Therefore, we advise consumers to consider alternatives to the MG 3, utilizing our website's search tool to select the safest vehicles that suit their needs.”

      “This is an extraordinary scenario, but Euro NCAP will tackle it by updating our protocols and scoring system to reflect any failures—regardless of the car's overall performance—in our ratings. Our mission is to enhance road safety for everyone, and we will relentlessly work toward improving vehicle safety.”

      The second generation of the MG 3 debuted in early 2024, featuring the latest brand styling and a self-charging hybrid powertrain delivering 192 hp (143 kW / 194 PS). In Europe, it primarily competes with the Toyota Yaris Hybrid, along with various other small hatchbacks like the Renault Clio, Mitsubishi Colt, Peugeot 208, Opel Corsa, Citroen C3, Hyundai i20, VW Polo, Skoda Fabia, and Seat Ibiza.