Two popular compact SUVs sold in South Africa have received poor safety ratings in the latest Global NCAP crash tests.

The Kia Sonet received a one-star rating for adult occupant protection, while the GWM Haval Jolion scored two stars.

The results were released on Wednesday as part of Global NCAP’s Safer Cars for Africa campaign, run with the Automobile Association.

Global NCAP said the South African-specification vehicles were randomly bought from local dealers and crash tested in Germany.

The entry-level versions of both models were tested.

Airbag gaps hurt scores

According to Global NCAP, both vehicles were marked down partly because they do not come standard with side head protection airbags.

The Kia Sonet has two frontal airbags.

In its crash assessment, the Sonet’s footwell area and bodyshell were found to be unstable and unable to withstand further loads.

The vehicle also performed poorly in the side impact test, where chest protection was rated weak.

The Sonet scored three stars for child occupant protection after both child dummies received full protection in the dynamic test.

However, Global NCAP said its score was limited by the lack of a passenger airbag disabling switch, a low child restraint installation score and the absence of three-point seatbelts in all seating positions.

Jolion performs slightly better

The Haval Jolion did better than the Sonet but still received only two stars for adult protection.

Global NCAP said the frontal impact test showed good protection for the head, neck and chest.

Knee protection was rated marginal.

The side movable barrier test also showed good protection.

However, the side pole test was not carried out because side head protection airbags are not fitted as standard.

The Jolion also received three stars for child protection, helped by strong performance in the dynamic test.

Its score was limited by the lack of a passenger airbag disabling switch and poor marking.

AA warns motorists

AA CEO Bobby Ramagwede said the sub-R400 000 vehicle market had become a serious concern, especially for entry-level models.

He said curtain-level airbags could be the difference between life and death in a side impact.

Global NCAP CEO Richard Woods said African motorists deserved the same safety protection offered in other markets.

He said side head protection airbags should be standard on every new car.