Five-stars for Korean duo

Five-star crash test results have been awarded to the Hyundai Elantra and Kia Picanto – but a lack of advanced safety features were noted by ANCAP.

The Elantra – introduced to both New Zealand and Australia in February – puts the entire Hyundai passenger and SUV range in the five-star club.

“The Elantra performed well in crash testing and is another sound addition to Hyundai’s fleet which sits well with its competitors in the small passenger vehicle market,” said ANCAP chief executive James Goodwin.

“Advanced safety assist technologies are unfortunately lacking on the Elantra, and Hyundai – along with other manufacturers – should step up and include technologies such as autonomous emergency braking (AEB) on all models.”

Elantra achieved an ‘acceptable’ pedestrian protection rating with testing revealing the base of the windscreen as an area for safety design improvement.

The Kia Picanto – recently introduced to Australia but available in New Zealand for a number of years – was awarded five stars, although its pedestrian protection rating was ‘marginal.’

“The Kia reinforces that safety should not be restricted by budget with the Picanto providing an affordable star vehicle choice,” adds Goodwin.

To search more than 565 crash test results and learn more about safety features visit ancap.com.au

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