Audit test of Australasian-sold Kia Picanto reveals increased injury risk

Leading independent vehicle safety advocate, the Australasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP), today released the results of an audit test conducted on the locally-sold Kia Picanto.

The audit test revealed a higher risk of serious injury to the driver compared with the initial test conducted in 2011, on which the Picanto’s current 5 star ANCAP safety rating is based.

ANCAP identified the Picanto for audit testing following a 0 star rating awarded earlier this year by sister test program, ASEAN NCAP, for models sold in Indonesia.

“The trigger for this audit test was the considerable variation in structural performance seen on the Indonesian-sold Picanto,” said Mr James Goodwin, ANCAP Chief Executive Officer.

“We wanted to confirm the validity of our existing rating for the safety of Australian and New Zealand consumers with the key driver being to provide assurance they can rely on ANCAP information when buying a new car.”

While dummy measurements obtained in the audit test revealed a difference in injury risk classification for driver chest and leg protection (‘Marginal’), the Picanto retains its overall 5 star ANCAP safety rating.

“The score obtained in the audit test is still within the 5 star range but it is important that consumers are made aware of these findings so they can make an informed decision in this highly competitive market segment,” Mr Goodwin said.