Adult occupant
The passenger compartment remained stable in the frontal impact, the windescreen pillar being deformed rearward only 2mm after the test. Dummy readings showed good protection of the front passengers' knees and femurs. Kia was able to demonstrate that a similar level of protection would be offered to occupants of different sizes and to those sat in different positions. In the side barrier test, all body areas were well protected and the car scored maximum points. In the more severe side pole test, dummy readings of rib deflection indiciated a marginal level of protection for the chest area. The seat and head restraint provided good protection against whiplash injuries in the event of a rear-end collision.
Child occupant
In the frontal impact, movement of the 3 year dummy, sat in a forward facing restraint, was not excessive. In the side impact, both child dummies were properly contained within the protective shells of their restraints. The passenger airbag can be disabled to allow a rearward facing child restraint to be used in that seating position. The status of the airbag is clearly displayed to the driver, so that it is clear whether the seat is safe for a rearward facing restraint (airbag off) or for an adult passenger (airbag on). Kia recommend a different child restraint for universal installation using the adult seatbelts, and for installation using the ISOFIX anchorages. Owners should check their owner's manual for details and should ensure they have the restraint which is recommended for the intended method of installation.
Pedestrian
The bumper provided good protection to pedestrians' legs in some of the areas tested but only marginal protection in others. The front edge of the bonnet provided predominantly poor protection. In most of the areas likely to be struck by a child's head, the bonnet offered good levels of protection. However, for an adult's head, most of the areas tested showed poor protection.
Safety assist
Electronic stability control is fitted as standard on all variants. A seatbelt reminder system is standard for the front and rear seats.