Global NCAP has revealed the safety rating of South Africa-spec Renault Kwid and the car scored 2 stars for both adult and child occupant protection.
Admittedly this is better than what the Indian version scored four years ago and once again brings to light the tendency of manufacturers to sell the same model with varying safety equipment specifications in different markets.
In South Africa, the Kwid, with the recent facelift, comes with 2 airbags as standard. Global NCAP crash tests reveal that the small car offered adequate protection to the driver’s head, while the passenger’s head had good protection.
Both necks show good protection, but the driver chest had weak protection. Also, the car’s body structure and footwell area were rated unstable.
When it comes to child occupant protection, the Renault Kwid performed poorly as the 18-month-old child dummy’s head contacted the interior of the car. Also, lack of ISOFIX anchorages and 3-point belts (at all positions) contributed to the 2 star rating for child occupant protection.
It must be noted that the Renault Kwid for Latin America achieved 3 stars by providing better adult and child occupant protection due to better standard safety kit.
The Renault Kwid safety rating tests were conducted during the fourth and recent round of #SaferCarsForAfrica crash test jointly organised by Global NCAP and AA South Africa.
In all, 3 models were tested, namely the Steed 5 pickup from Great Wall, Haval H1 5-door SUV and the Kwid from Renault. Sadly, all gave serious cause for concern with poor levels of occupant protection.
Renault Kwid Safety Rating
- South Africa Renault Kwid receives 2-star safety rating
- Global NCAP found the car’s body structure to be unstable
- It did better than the Indian version though
