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NEWS
Kia Rondo's tick of approval from Euro NCAP
Mini people mover is one of just two cars of the type to score five stars in 2013 crash test scenarioKia's new generation Rondo has achieved a five-star safety rating in crash safety testing conducted by Euro NCAP.
While that's commendable, the Rondo's achievement has to be balanced against the fact that plenty of cars currently sold in Europe can boast a five-star rating. But far fewer can point to that accolade for testing carried out during the current calendar year. Euro NCAP has shifted the goal posts from the start of 2013 and it is the new rules applicable by which the Kia has been judged.
According to Euro NCAP, changes for 2013 test procedures include a "new child occupant protection protocol," with testing for children aged three years and 18 months. Pedestrian safety for the vehicle's bonnet is now assessed using the grid method, and the Safety Assist Systems category has been revised to allow credit for on-board speed limiting systems. Both the assessment protocol and scoring system have been updated in this category also.
As a 'small MPV' for the sake of classification, the Kia is matched for its five-star safety by just one rival – the new Citroen C4 Picasso (the five-seat version).
Only two other 'small MPVs' have been tested by Euro NCAP under the new 2013 regime – the Mercedes-Benz Citan and the Nissan Evalia, which is not sold in Australia. Neither of those achieved five stars, so the implications for the seven-seat Kia are clear – and all the more so in view of the previous Rondo's four-star rating.
For adult protection the Rondo, which is badged as the Kia Carens in Europe, outshone the Citroen, notching up a 94 per cent tally, versus 86 per cent for the C4 Picasso. But the French car was the equal of the Kia in Safety Assist equipment fitted (81 per cent for both), and proved superior for child and pedestrian safety – 88 to 76 per cent for the former, and 68 to 64 per cent for the latter.
"From the beginning of the new Carens' development programme, Kia engineers were dedicated to creating a compact MPV with the very best structure and safety technology to protect drivers, their families and pedestrians in the event of an accident," said Benny Oeyen, Vice-President Marketing and Product Planning for Kia in Europe.
"In the last five years, Euro NCAP testing criteria has become tougher, making it harder for manufacturers' products to be awarded top marks. It is a testament to Kia's on-going commitment to improving vehicle safety that we are able to once again achieve the highest rating with new Carens, which has great appeal for families with an active lifestyle who seek both style and practicality," said Oeyen, as quoted in a press release.
The Kia was praised by Euro NCAP for its side impact protection, front-seat whiplash protection, safety for 18-month old toddlers and protection for pedestrians' legs. Seat belt reminders, which are a pre-requisite for any car in contention for a five-star rating, were fitted to all seats of the Kia and other safety features include an adjustable speed limiter, six airbags, stability control, Hill Assist Control and flashing brake lights for emergencies.
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