The latest crash tests conducted under the #SaferCarsForAfrica initiative have revealed worrying safety gaps in two popular entry-level vehicles—the GWM Haval Jolion and Kia Sonet.
The Global New Car Assessment Programme (GNCAP) awarded the Jolion two stars for adult protection and three stars for child protection, while the Sonet managed only one star for adults and three stars for children.
Both vehicles lack standard side head protection airbags, a feature that significantly influenced their poor ratings.
Bobby Ramagwede, CEO of the AA, cautioned motorists: “The tests also show the significant difference that basic safety features such as side-impact airbags and electronic stability control can make. These features offer a major safety boost to any vehicle and, in most cases, can be added with only a marginal increase in vehicle price.”
Richard Woods, CEO of Global NCAP, criticised manufacturers for offering lower standards in Africa: “The Kia Sonet’s one-star result and the GWM Haval Jolion’s two-star result show how far the industry still must go. Side-head protection airbags should be standard on every new car, in every market. African motorists deserve the same life-saving protection as drivers in the rest of the world.”
Jolion: Adequate in Some Areas, Lacking in Others
The Jolion was tested with four airbags—front and side body airbags—but no head protection. ESC was fitted as standard.
Frontal crash: Good protection for head, neck, and chest; knees marginal.
Side barrier test: Good protection achieved.
Side pole test: Not conducted due to missing head airbags.
Child protection: Dynamic test showed full protection, but absence of passenger airbag disabling switch reduced rating to three stars.
Sonet: Structural Concerns and Limited Protection
The Sonet’s results were more troubling.
Frontal crash: Bodyshell and footwell area unstable.
Side impact: Poor chest protection limited adult rating to one star.
Child protection: Dynamic test showed full protection, but lack of three-point belts and low CRS installation score reduced rating to three stars.
Broader Industry Context
Both models are strong sellers, with Jolion averaging 1,200 units monthly and Sonet around 800. Ramagwede criticised OEMs for failing to act on past test results, highlighting the need for manufacturers to either add safety features, discontinue unsafe entry-level models, or provide safer alternatives.
He noted: “We welcome feedback from Hyundai regarding the Grand i10, Toyota regarding the Starlet and Corolla Cross, and Chery regarding the Tiggo 7 Pro, per recent announcements. We cannot continue to put a price on a life.”
Kia defended its position, pointing out that higher-spec Sonet derivatives (EX+ and SX) include six airbags as standard, with the SX also offering ADAS. Kia confirmed that a new LS+ derivative, equipped with six airbags, will be introduced later this year, meaning four of five Sonet trims will offer enhanced protection.
Staff Writer
Reporting from the front lines of the automotive industry, delivering expert analysis and the technical updates that drive the South African motor sector forward.
