‘Zero’ to hero? Hyundai rolls out safer Grand i10 after zero-star rating in SA

Hyundai South Africa is shifting gears following a wave of criticism regarding the safety of its entry-level flagship car, the Grand i10.

After the vehicle in question recorded a disappointing zero-star safety rating in recent Global NCAP testing, the Korean automaker has announced a new, safer “Executive” derivative to bolster the lineup.

The move comes after the hatchback was put through its paces as part of the #SaferCarsForAfrica campaign. While the vehicle initially met all local regulatory requirements, the test results, which highlighted significant risks to adult occupants, pushed the brand to offer a more robust alternative for safety-conscious buyers.

Hyundai offers “Executive” safety boost

According to Hyundai South Africa, the new Executive variant, which is already a staple in the sedan range, is designed to fix the gaps exposed during the NCAP trials. Unlike the base models, this new derivative is expected to be packed with essential life-saving tech.

Key upgrades will include:

• Expanded airbags: The addition of side and curtain airbags to protect passengers during lateral impacts.
• Electronic Stability Programme (ESP): Now standard to improve on-road stability and prevent skidding.
• Transmission options: The Executive will be available in both manual and automatic versions to suit the price-sensitive entry-level market.

“The introduction of the Executive derivative reflects our commitment to enhancing safety and overall product value in a highly competitive segment,” Stanley Anderson, CEO of Hyundai Automotive South Africa, said.

Addressing the zero-star rating

The original Global NCAP report was a wake-up call, giving the Grand i10 zero stars for adult occupant protection, though it managed a three-star rating for child protection. Critics pointed to the lack of stability control and insufficient airbag coverage as major red flags.

Hyundai’s proactive response aims to restore confidence in the brand without completely removing the budget-friendly Premium models.

The existing lineup will remain on sale, allowing the Executive to act as a higher-tier option for those willing to pay a little more for peace of mind.

By adding these features, Hyundai is attempting a delicate balancing act: keeping the car affordable while shaking off the “unsafe” label.

Anderson notes that the update is about “incremental innovation,” ensuring the brand stays relevant in a market where consumers are increasingly demanding better protection.

Full details on pricing and exactly when the Executive will hit South African showroom floors are expected to be announced in the coming weeks.