RAC calls for uniform safety features
07 June 2008
The RAC is urging prospective car buyers to check the safety rating of the model they are buying, on the back of the release of the latest ANCAP car safety tests.
The latest tests reveal that the top equipment levels of two of the small cars tested, the Mitsubishi Lancer and the Hyundai i30, have a five-star rating and are available for under $30,000. However, the safety features required of a five-star car are not standard in the base models.
RAC Executive Manager Member Advocacy David Moir said, in some cases, consumers had to pay up to eight thousand dollars* more for a model with the full safety features.
“It’s great that five-star cars are available for less than $30,000 but consumers need to be aware that, if they opt for a cheaper model, they’re getting a car without some of the safety gear,” Mr Moir said.
“These five-star cars are also available as four-star cars and buyers need to be aware of that
before they make a purchase.”
The Australian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP) tests new vehicles and awards them a star rating according the level of protection they offer in a crash, based on international protocol.
The 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer scored highly for passenger protection and earns its five stars for its side air bags and Electronic Stability Control (ESC). The lower model of the same car was
awarded four stars.
The Hyundai i30 also received five stars for its inclusion of side air bags and ESC as well as modification improvements to the vehicle’s knee impact area. The lesser model of the i30 scored four stars.
“The RAC would like to see all models of the cars, including the base models, fitted with the same five-star safety features so all consumers have equal levels of protection” Mr Moir said.
“At the moment they can believe they’re getting a top-rated car but drive away with a lesser one.”
The design of the front of the cars is still a concern for pedestrians with the Lancer and i30, along with the Renault Laguna and Ford Focus, scoring only two out of four for pedestrian protection. The Kia Rondo and Holden Astra only scored one in the same category.
Download the release (pdf)