Hyundai Grand i10 fails global safety test

The Automobile Association (AA) of South Africa has raised serious concerns about the top-selling Hyundai Grand i10, which received a zero-star rating for adult occupant protection in the Global New Car Assessment Programme (NCAP)'s #SaferCarsForAfrica initiative.

While the car scored three stars for child protection, the AA warns that the version sold in African markets has major safety issues for adults. 

These issues include weak structural integrity and a lack of important features like side airbags and Electronic Stability Control.

In a statement, the AA explained that its role is not to ban or endorse vehicles but to provide the public with independent safety data.

The organisation emphasises that NCAP results help consumers make informed choices, especially in markets where safety regulations are outdated.

According to the AA, the programme has already led to changes, with some manufacturers pulling or upgrading poorly rated models due to public pressure.

Regarding concerns from current owners, the AA clarified that a poor NCAP rating does not make a vehicle illegal to drive; it merely indicates how well it might protect occupants in a crash.

The AA has called for stronger vehicle safety regulations and is working to establish an Africa NCAP programme to improve testing and transparency across the continent.