Utes Still Lagging In Safety

Utes Still Lagging In Safety

The Ssangyong Actyon Sports Utility has received a 3-star ANCAP rating, prompting calls by the NRMA and RTA for manufacturers to improve the safety performance of utilities to match passenger car standards.

Also released today were 5-star safety ratings for the Toyota Prado, Kia Soul, BMW 5 Series (4 and 6-cylinder models), the Honda Insight and the Hyundai ix35.

NRMA vehicle safety expert Jack Haley said it was still a concern that some commercial vehicles were rating poorly in safety performance.

"This Ssangyong joins vehicles like the Proton Jumbuck, Mahindra Pik-Up, Mitsubishi Express and Great Wall Motors V240 with an ANCAP rating of 3 stars or worse," Mr Haley said.

"Today we have 5-star ANCAP vehicles in all categories, so fleet managers have a choice when considering their commercial fleets.

"Private buyers should also check a vehicle's safety rating before finalising their purchase."

Keith Simmons, General Manager, Safer Vehicles, at the NSW Centre for Road Safety said the Kia Soul had received an upgraded 5-star rating following improved safety features being installed in the vehicle.

"This is good news for Kia buyers as the Soul now has electronic stability control and seat belt reminders for all seats," Mr Simmons said.

"These new ratings are also good news for environmentally conscious drivers.

"The low fuel consumption Honda Insight joins the growing list of green vehicles with a 5-star ANCAP safety rating."

For a full list of vehicle safety ratings, including more commercial vehicles, and other vehicle safety information, visit www.rta.nsw.gov.au or www.mynrma.com.au/ancap.

ANCAP is supported by all Australian and New Zealand motoring clubs, all Australian state governments, the New Zealand government, the Victorian Transport Accident Commission, NRMA Insurance and the FIA Foundation.

Contacts:
Daniel Stanton NRMA 0439 133 092
Shannon Mackay RTA 0438 272 701

SOURCE: NRMA Motoring & Services