Great Wall Motors ute fails safety grade – AA

28 April 2017
Great Wall Motors ute fails safety grade – AA

Those in the market for a new ute should avoid the Great Wall Motors Steed if buyers value safety performance.

In the latest round of information released by the Australasian New Car Assessment Programme (ANCAP), the 4x2 petrol dual cab failed to meet even basic standards during its crash test achieving a very poor 2 star safety rating.

AA Motoring Services General Manager Stella Stocks says if price is a key factor for those looking to buy a ute, they’d be better off buying a second-hand one with a better safety rating.

“While Great Wall Motors has added safety assist technology not available on its earlier offering to the market, the Steed’s structural integrity is like a step back in time,” Mr Stocks says.

“In new cars today we expect to see a very high standard of occupant protection during a crash test. However, the Steed doesn’t come close to meeting that expectation.”

Lower and upper leg injury was likely in a crash due to excessive footwell deformation, pedal displacement and separation of footwell panels. In addition, steering column components were a potential source of knee injury for the driver while dash components could cause injury to both driver and passenger.

“Manufacturers need to do more than just go through the motions of improving safety. While it’s great to see important technology like electronic stability control and curtain airbags include on the Steed, cabin integrity also needs to be good.”

Ms Stocks says that for the same money, buyers should consider second-hand options build by brands that put safety first.

Top ANCAP results were achieved by the Honda Civic (sedan and hatch) and the Hyundai i30.

“Honda and Hyundai are among the brands we expect to produce safe cars and, like many other manufacturers, continue to lift the bar with new models ultimately improving safety outcomes for all of us.”

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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