Technology
Archived — This article has been archived. The information may be outdated.
Export-spec Kia Sonet gets 1-star GNCAP rating
NDTV Auto··10 Jun
An India-made Kia Sonet exported to South Africa scored just one star for adult occupant protection in Global NCAP's latest crash test. The tested African-market variant had dual front airbags and fewer safety features than the India-spec Sonet, which offers six airbags as standard.
Prism
What It Means For You
- Indian buyers should not directly apply this score to the India-spec Sonet because the tested South African model had fewer safety features.
- Crash ratings can vary by market variant, so checking the exact tested specification matters before comparing cars.
- Structural comments such as unstable footwell and bodyshell limits are important because airbags alone do not determine crash safety.
What's Happening
- Global NCAP tested an India-made Kia Sonet sold in South Africa under its Safer Cars for Africa programme.
- The model scored one star for adult occupant protection and three stars for child occupant protection.
- The tested variant had dual airbags and lacked standard ESC, unlike the India-spec Sonet with six airbags as standard.
Why Variant Safety Matters
- Carmakers often sell different safety packages in different countries depending on regulation, price and market expectations.
- Global NCAP tests specific variants, so results should be read with the equipment list attached to the tested model.
- A strong safety baseline across export and domestic models can reduce confusion and improve consumer trust.
all-newstop-stories
