The Hyundai Grand i10 has been thrust into the spotlight for all the wrong reasons after receiving a dismal zero-star rating for adult occupant protection in the latest Global NCAP crash tests under the #SaferCarsForAfrica campaign.
The Automobile Association (AA) has condemned the results, calling them “unacceptable” and warning that African motorists are being short-changed on safety.
Although the hatchback managed three stars for child occupant protection, the adult safety score paints a worrying picture. Built in India, the Grand i10 is equipped with only basic features such as front airbags, while omitting vital systems like side-impact protection and Electronic Stability Control (ESC), both considered essential in modern vehicles.
Global NCAP’s findings revealed critical flaws:
Richard Woods, Global NCAP’s Chief Executive, criticised the disparity: “It is unacceptable to see the continued double standard on safety in low- and middle-income countries. African consumers deserve safer vehicles regardless of where they live.”
AA Chief Executive Bobby Ramagwede added: “South African motorists deserve better. The Hyundai Grand i10’s zero-star rating highlights the urgent need for manufacturers to commit to equal safety standards across all markets. Safety should never be optional.”
The AA is urging stronger regulatory frameworks and greater accountability from carmakers, insisting that no vehicle should be sold in Africa without side-impact protection and ESC as standard. The organisation has vowed to continue campaigning for tougher safety laws and full transparency.
Hyundai Automotive South Africa officially opened Hyundai Midrand, a new dealership aimed at strengthening the brand’s presence in Gauteng and responding to growing customer demand in one of the province’s fastest-growing commercial corridors.
The compact SUV market in South Africa has gained a new contender with the arrival of the GAC Emzoom Nova. It joins the existing Emzoom Executive and Emzoom R‑Style models, broadening the range offered by Salvador Caetano South Africa, the official distributor of GAC Motor.
Chinese vehicle brand Changan has strengthened its South African retail presence with the opening of a new flagship dealership in Umhlanga, KwaZulu-Natal, as the company pushes ahead with plans to establish about 45 dealerships nationally during 2026.
Advertisement
Advertisement
I have bad reflexes. I was once run over by a car being pushed by two guys
Woody Allen
A South African dealership has been instructed to remove or amend an advertisement for a new Jetour T2 after the Advertising Regulatory Board (ARB) ruled that the listing created the impression that a specific vehicle was immediately available for purchase when it was not.
If you were hoping to experience the roaring streets of the Isle of Man TT in 2026, you are already too late. This event, with practice sessions starting on 25 May 2026 and racing commencing on the 30th, requires at least six to twelve months of planning, along with a substantial budget.
Pinewood.AI has added two new embedded modules to its Business Intelligence Solution, giving dealers and OEMs greater insight into financial performance and the customer journey, it says.
