Kia South Africa is aware of the statement issued the Automobile Association of South Africa (AA) and Global NCAP regarding the #SaferCarsForAfrica crash test assessment of the Kia Sonet LS Model.
The Sonet LS achieved three stars for child occupant protection and one star for adult occupant protection in the assessment. The adult assessment is specifically attributed to the absence of standard side curtain airbag protection in the entry-level specification of the model tested. The Sonet’s Electronic Stability Control met with Global NCAP requirements, while child occupancy received a three star rating in the test.
Kia South Africa confirms that the Sonet range meets all applicable South African legislative safety requirements as stipulated the National Regulator for Compulsory Specifications (NRCS). The Sonet LS is equipped with a comprehensive standard safety suite across the range, including:
- Dual front SRS airbags
- ISOFIX child seat anchorage points
- Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
- Front seatbelt pretensioners
Customers seeking enhanced occupant protection will find the Sonet EX+ and SX derivatives equipped with six airbags as standard, which provide side body and side curtain protection in addition to the dual front airbags fitted across the range. The SX derivative is equipped with Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) as standard.
In addition, Kia South Africa can confirm that the Sonet LS+ will be introduced to the local line-up in the third quarter of this year, expanding the range with an additional derivative that offers six airbags as standard. With the LS+ in the line-up, four of the five Sonet trim levels will offer six airbags as standard.
“Kia South Africa recognises the #SaferCarsForAfrica campaign’s role in raising safety standards across the continent and, furthermore, welcomes independent assessment as a mechanism for accountability and continuous improvement across the industry,” said Paul Turnbull, CEO of Kia South Africa.
