Toyota Starlet, a rebadged Suzuki, earned a 0‑star rating for adult occupant protection in Global NCAP tests. Discover the details now.
The latest Global NCAP crash‑test results have sent shockwaves through the South African market. The Toyota Starlet – essentially a badge‑engineered Suzuki Baleno produced in India – received a dismal 0‑star rating for adult occupant protection.
Why the Starlet Was Tested
Global NCAP selected the standard‑trim, pre‑facelift version of the Starlet that is still sold in South Africa. The vehicle shares its platform, chassis and much of its body structure with the Suzuki Baleno, differing mainly in front‑ and rear‑bumper styling and the Toyota badge.
Test Setup and Safety Equipment
Even though the Starlet comes equipped with standard electronic stability control and dual front airbags, the test revealed serious structural weaknesses. The car’s footwell area collapsed during impact, and the overall body shell failed to maintain integrity, meaning additional crash forces could not be absorbed safely.
Key Findings from the Crash Tests
- Frontal impact: The absence of side‑impact airbags left the head and chest of a dummy in the “poor” protection zone, while the abdomen received only “acceptable” protection.
- Side‑pole impact: The test was skipped entirely because the vehicle’s side‑impact performance was already deemed unsafe.
- Side‑barrier impact: Described by Global NCAP as a “disaster,” the Starlet’s lack of side‑airbags resulted in severe head and chest injury scores.
- Child‑occupant protection: Surprisingly, the same model earned 3 stars for child safety, scoring 29.33 points thanks to a child‑seat dummy that survived the frontal test with relatively low injury readings.
Toyota’s Response
Toyota South Africa argued that the tested unit represents an outdated model that is no longer sold, and therefore does not reflect the safety of the current Starlet lineup, which now includes side‑airbags, curtain airbags and a driver’s airbag. The automaker has requested a retest with a newer specimen.
What Global NCAP Said
Richard Woods, CEO of Global NCAP, called the results “shocking,” emphasizing that a best‑selling vehicle in South Africa should not have such an unstable body structure or poor head‑and‑chest protection for adult occupants.
Implications for Buyers
Until a new test is conducted, the Starlet will remain listed with a 0‑star adult safety rating in Global NCAP’s database. Prospective buyers should verify whether the specific vehicle they are considering includes the updated safety package before making a purchase.
Looking Ahead
Global NCAP plans to acquire another Starlet for a follow‑up assessment. The outcome will determine whether Toyota’s claim of an upgraded, safer model holds up under independent scrutiny.