Another Feather in Its NCAP - Hyundai's i20 Leads the Class for Safety

HIGH WYCOMBE, UNITED KINGDOM – May 27, 2009: It’s hats off to Hyundai at Euro NCAP after the i20 was awarded the maximum five-star score in the first round of tests using the organisation’s new rating system. Setting a new standard in the supermini segment, the i20 five-door model scored exceptionally well in all four categories assessed – adult occupancy, child protection, pedestrian protection and safety assist.

Notably the i20 scored 88 per cent in the adult occupant protection tests, including the new whiplash assessment. The car’s standard active head-restraints, front seatbelt pretensioners and six airbags – front, side and curtain – played a key role in achieving success in the NCAP tests for frontal, side barrier and car-to-pole impacts.

Crucially the i20 scored an impressive six out of a maximum seven points in the ‘safety assist’ category, receiving top marks for its seatbelt reminder and Electronic Stability Programme (ESP). ESP helps to minimise the risk of skidding by applying brakes to individual wheels to direct the car where the driver wishes to go. Euro NCAP now insists that 85 per cent of volume sales should be fitted with ESP as standard before a new car can be eligible for a five-star rating.

The exceptional result for child protection will be of particular interest to family motorists. The i20 scored 41 out of a possible 49 points, easily beating all the other cars in its class plus mini-MPVs including the new Citroen C3 Picasso. It even puts the i20 above larger cars including the Vauxhall Insignia and Mercedes-Benz C-Class.

Commenting on the achievement, Allan Rushforth, Vice President of Hyundai Motor Europe, said “This is a proud moment for Hyundai. The i20’s five-star rating is recognition of our commitment to providing customers with superior quality and top-class safety. Across our range we offer exceptional levels of life-saving equipment as standard, and we continue to research and develop new ways to protect drivers and occupants of Hyundai cars.”