After receiving a poor rating in the Global New Car Assessment Programme (Global NCAP), Volkswagen South Africa upped the ante on the Polo Vivo and requested a retest – emerging with a 4-star safety level, placing the new Polo Vivo among the safest vehicles in its segment.
Since its debut in South Africa in 2010, the Polo Vivo has become a majorplayer in the market. Locally developed and manufactured at the Kariega plant in the Eastern Cape, it has consistently been South Africa’s best-selling passenger car. To date, some 500 000 units have been sold across the country and into Sub-Saharan Africa.
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David Ward, Executive President of the Towards Zero Foundation, commended the vehicle's enhanced safety features: “The Polo Vivo is one of the best-selling models in South Africa. It is therefore very satisfying to see the positive and constructive reaction from Volkswagen in offering safety feature improvements for the new version of the car.”
Designed specifically for the African market, the new Polo Vivo underwent rigorous testing under Global NCAP’s 2024 assessment protocols. The vehicle excelled, achieving a 4-star rating for Adult Occupancy Protection (AOP) and a 3-star rating for Child Occupancy Protection (COP).
The model's 4-star safety rating is attributed to a range of active and passive safety features, including driver and passenger seat belt recognition with audible warnings, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), dual front crash bags and optional front side bags for head and chest protection in certain variants. Additionally, it complies with Global NCAP's child seat and ISOFIX requirements, ensuring safer journeys for younger passengers.
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Niels Wichmann, Brand Head of Volkswagen Passenger Cars, says: “Volkswagen’s commitment to safety is unwavering and this recognition underscores our dedication to providing our customers with reliable and safe vehicles. The impressive performance in Global NCAP’s rigorous testing protocol demonstrates the level of active and passive safety features available in the new Polo Vivo.”
The recognition further reinforces Volkswagen’s reputation as a leader in innovation and safety, highlighting the Polo Vivo as a top choice for drivers seeking dependable and secure vehicles tailored for African roads.
Bobby Ramagwede, CEO of the Automobile Association of South Africa added: “The VW Polo Vivo is undeniably one of South Africa's favourite cars, particularly among young, first-time buyers. It is encouraging to see vehicle manufacturers voluntarily crash-testing their flagship models and making efforts to improve the safety features of their offerings.
“These efforts align perfectly with the #SaferCarsForAfrica campaign, which advocates for manufacturers to actively ensure that their vehicles are equipped with essential safety features for consumers. By prioritizing safety during vehicle production, manufacturers can significantly contribute to the well-being of their customers and the broader community.”
Colin Windell for Colin-on-Cars in association with
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