Compact Suzuki misses ANCAP 5 star safety target

Media Release: 11 February 2015
Compact Suzuki misses ANCAP 5 star safety target

The New Zealand market will receive a higher spec version of the Suzuki Celerio than European customers, but not high enough to ensure it receives a top ANCAP safety rating.

The Australasian New Car Assessment Programme has awarded the Celerio a 4 star safety rating. It comes with the addition of head-protecting side curtain airbags and seatbelt reminders for both front and back occupants – features omitted from the European model.

However, the Celerio’s lack of some other safety features meant it was not eligible for a 5 star safety rating.

AA Motoring Services General Manager Stella Stocks says it is positive that side curtain airbags are included in the model that will be offered to the New Zealand market.

“Airbags save lives. No one should consider buying a brand new car that doesn’t include side curtain airbags as standard today.

“It’s pleasing that Suzuki is responding to the messages both ANCAP and the AA have been repeating for more than a decade with the Celerio, despite not including side curtain airbags in its European model.”

However, the launch of the Celerio is on hold in New Zealand following reports of high speed brake failure during testing by motoring magazines in the United Kingdom. Suzuki has recalled all models sold since its launch there on February 1.

Suzuki says the launch will be on hold until the reported brake issue is identified and resolved.

ANCAP has also announced a 5 star safety rating for all variants of the Hyundai Sonata.

While the Sonata boasts hill launch assist and reversing collision avoidance as standard it doesn’t include autonomous emergency braking (AEB) which is available on its luxury model, the Genesis.

“We want to see all manufacturers including advanced safety assist technologies as they are developed to further minimise the risk of serious injury or death on our roads,” Ms Stocks says.

ANCAP is supported by all Australian motoring clubs, the New Zealand Automobile Association, the Australian Government, the New Zealand Government, Australian state and territory governments, the Victorian Transport Accident Commission, NRMA Insurance and the FIA Foundation.

The full list of ANCAP’s vehicle safety ratings, other vehicle safety information and the specifications of the rated vehicles are available online at aa.co.nz or rightcar.govt.nz.

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