In an interesting turn of events, ANCAP safety testing has returned a mixed scorecard of three and five-star results for the all-new Kia Stinger.
The mid and top spec Si, GT-Line and GT all secured the desirable five-star score.
“The Si, GT Line and GT variants marketed in Australia, and all New Zealand Stinger variants are well equipped and have earnt the maximum 5-star ANCAP safety rating,” said ANCAP Chief Executive, Mr James Goodwin.
The Stinger’s three-star scores were confined to the entry level 200S four-cylinder and 330S V6. In order to achieve a lower price point, active safety features such as AEB (autonomous emergency braking) have been omitted. Even though these models are at the bottom of the Stinger line-up, they still cost over $50,000 – not really a bargain basement offering.
“Unfortunately two Stinger variants offered as part of the Australian model line-up – the 200S and 330S – are supplied without the active safety aids provided in other variants and score 3 stars.”
“Autonomous emergency braking and lane keep assist have been omitted from these grades, reducing their Safety Assist score to 25 per cent. Australasian variants also lack rear seat belt pre-tensioners and load limiters which help manage the forces of a crash, and a penalty has been applied to the full-width test score,” said Mr Goodwin.
“As a new market entrant, the Kia Stinger has generated a lot of public interest and consumers should expect a 5-star safety rating for this calibre of vehicle,”
“Australasian customers should feel let down that important safety features are being left out of the vehicles we’re being supplied. We would urge Kia to offer the same safety specification across all variants and all markets to ensure the best safety outcomes,” he added.
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