Where to Balance Price and Safety: the Dacia Lodgy

Should car buyers have the right to sacrifice safety to get a cheaper car if they choose to? That is the question raised by the Euro NCAP results for the latest DaciaDaciaRomania, 1966 > present11 models
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LodgyDacia LodgyRomania, 2012 > present21 versions
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. The car sits up to seven people but prices start in most of Europe under €10,000, which is an absolute bargain compared to any other car in its class. However, the new car was just tested by Euro NCAP and received a three-star safety rating. In comparison, every other small new car that Euro NCAP tested in its latest round received its maximum five-star rating.

The Lodgy received below average scores in every test that the Euro NCAP put the car though, but most of the other cars aced at least one of the tests.

The Lodgy scored a below average in the front impact because the windshield pillar deformed, and the roof bent. The rear passenger floor and tunnel separated; the transmission tunnel deformed between the front seats.  It received a 44% pedestrian protection score, compared to 60% or more from the other cars. The child protection score was 77%, which Euro NCAP deemed just average. It also does not have standard stability control.

“It is disappointing to see the Lodgy do badly in our tests, especially coming just a week after the SanderoDacia Dacia Sandero Gen.2Romania, 2012 > present31 versions
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, branded a Renault in South America, was given a poor one star rating by Latin NCAP. The Lodgy is a budget vehicle and customers will accept compromises in comfort and performance, but not safety. Euro NCAP believes that occupants’ safety should be paramount, regardless of how much they pay for their vehicle," said Dr Michiel van Ratingen, Secretary General of Euro NCAP.

Obviously to offer a car at the Lodgy's price compromises have to be made, but it appears that Dacia decided to compromise safety on a car that will mostly be sold to families. 

However, the market will ultimately decide whether the Lodgy is a success. While it may not be safe, it is significantly safer than any other seven-passenger car on the market. Perhaps buyers will decide that safety is a lower priority than price. 

You can view the car's entire Euro NCAP results here.