Hyundai Tucson Scores “Disappointing” 4-Star ANCAP Result

Hyundai's midsize SUV, the Tucson, has returned a less-than-desirable four-star crash safety rating in ANCAP testing, with the local crash testing body describing the result as "disappointing and unexpected for a new vehicle in this competitive class".

While the Tucson achieved high marks in most aspects of the test, its poor performance in lower leg protection during the 64km/h frontal offset crash test dashed its chances of achieving a full five-star score.

At a minimum, cars must score at least 12.5 out of 16 points in the frontal offset test to be eligible for a five-star rating. The Tucson scored 11.46, with an overall score of 32.46 out of a possible 37 points.

Hyundai Australia expressed disappointment at the result.

"While the Tucson performed well overall, and is inherently strong and safe, it is not the maximum five-star result we hoped it would achieve," the company said in a statement.

"It does not match the five-star Euro NCAP rating recently awarded to Tucson, nor does it match the five-star score achieved by Hyundai Motor Company during its own internal testing."

"Hyundai Motor Company engineers are currently examining the data from the ANCAP 64km/h frontal offset test in order to determine what changes may be necessary to achieve a five-star score."

Hyundai says it expects to submit a revised model for re-testing later this year, however has not provided a timeline for when that improved version will be available for sale in Australia.

“It’s encouraging that Hyundai has taken immediate steps following the test to make design and production changes to improve the safety of the model,” ANCAP Chief Executive Officer James Goodwin said.

“ANCAP has agreed to test the vehicle once the design changes are in production and it’s hoped the countermeasures will improve the vehicle’s overall rating."

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