When it comes time to buy a new vehicle, people often have a range of criteria they are looking to satisfy. Some may be swayed more by price than sportiness, while others demand a vehicle that looks good or one that is kinder to the environment. Whatever the conditions, there is always going to be a compromise of some sort.
However, the Australasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP) is warning drivers against compromising on safety. While drivers may think there is little difference between a three-star and a five-star rated vehicle, these choices can be the difference between making a car accident injury claim and not being able to walk away.
ANCAP warns of new market entrant
According to the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries, Australians are buying a record number of cars. While this is good for the industry overall, if people aren't buying safe vehicles, they could negatively impact the lives of other motorists and pedestrians.
This is especially true for SUVs, as these larger vehicles are growing their popularity rapidly. In May, these cars accounted for almost 40 per cent of all vehicles sold. Although many of these are released with five-star ANCAP ratings, a new market entrant has shown that people can't assume that all their vehicles are as safe as their competition.
The vehicle in question is the Haval H9 SUV produced by Great Wall Motors. Although it shares many of the same traits and attributes as its competitors, ANCAP reported there is one major difference -it's only rated four stars for safety. ANCAP CEO James Goodwin noted that despite this being only one star different, it misses out on many modern safety additions that consumers now demand as standard.
"New vehicle buyers have come to expect 5 star safety from new models and, unfortunately, this result falls short of marketplace expectations," he explained. "The Large SUV category is extremely competitive and there are now 5 star options from almost all brands at varying price points."
Overall, the Haval H9 performed reasonably well in most assessments, but it was the frontal offset test which let down its ranking. In accidents of this nature, there is a chance of significant chest injury and lower leg damage.
To find out more about car accident compensation claims, contact the team at Gerard Malouf and Partners.