GWM South Africa has acknowledged the recent two-star crash test result for the entry-level Haval Jolion, and committed to aligning its safety specifications with those of its higher-grade offerings.
The crossover SUV was tested by the Global New Car Assessment Programme (Global NCAP) as part of the Automobile Association of South Africa’s (AA’s) #SaferCarsForAfrica campaign.
During testing, the Jolion was awarded a two-star adult protection rating and three stars for child protection.
Following the results announcement, the Chinese automaker affirmed its commitment to customer safety, noting that it continuously enhances the safety specifications and performance of its vehicles.
“The Haval Jolion range already offers a comprehensive suite of safety features designed to protect drivers and passengers, and we remain focused on further strengthening these offerings across our model lineup,” it said.
“As part of our ongoing product enhancement strategy, we are working to align the safety specifications of our entry-level models more closely with those of our higher-grade variants.”
GWM revealed that all future Haval Jolion City and Jolion Pro Premium models will be equipped with curtain airbags as standard, which it says will further enhance occupant protection and overall vehicle safety.
“We value the role of independent safety assessments in advancing automotive safety standards and will continue investing in technologies and features that provide greater peace of mind for our customers,” the carmaker said.
“GWM South Africa remains dedicated to delivering vehicles that combine quality, innovation, value, and safety for South African motorists.”
Crash test results
Crash testing highlighted several serious gaps in the safety protection the vehicle offers occupants, largely driven by a lack of side-head protection and the absence of curtain airbags.
The entry-level model tested was fitted with only four airbags – driver and passenger front and side body airbags – with no head protection airbags present.
However, the AA and Global NCAP did acknowledge that the model was fitted with Electronic Stability Control (ESC) as standard.
Crash testing results for the Chinese crossover revealed the following:
- The frontal impact showed good protection to the head, neck and chest. Knee protection was marginal.
- The side movable barrier test showed good protection.
- The side pole test was not conducted because side head protection airbags are not fitted as
standard. - ESC is fitted as standard and meets Global NCAP requirements.
- Child Occupant Protection: Both child dummies received full protection in the dynamic test, but
the lack of proper marking and the lack of a passenger airbag disabling switch resulted in a 3-star rating.
Automobile Association CEO Bobby Ramagwede said the tests prove how basic safety features such as side-impact airbags and electronic stability control can make a significant difference in safety.
“These features offer a major safety boost to any vehicle and, in most cases, can be added with only a marginal increase in vehicle price,” he said.
Global NCAP CEO Richard Woods noted that the vehicle’s two-star result highlights how far the automotive industry still has to go.
“Side head protection airbags should be standard on every new car, in every market. African motorists deserve the same life-saving protection as drivers in the rest of the world,” he said.
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