Information on the Global NCAP website indicates the current Toyota Starlet model received a 0-star rating for adult occupant protection in the test results. Child occupant protection was rated 3 stars.

Manufactured in India and one of South Africa's best-selling models, the Starlet is equipped with front airbags for the driver and passenger, along with standard electronic stability control (ESC). This model lacks side head protection airbags.

Video: Global NCAP

The crash test report noted several significant points: the footwell and vehicle structure were found to be unstable and unable to withstand further loads; in the side impact test, both head and chest protection were rated poor.

Richard Woods, CEO of Global NCAP, stated: "This is a shocking 0-star result from Toyota. The Starlet, one of South Africa's best-selling models, has an unstable chassis, as well as poor head and chest protection, both of which are concerning issues."

However, Woods added that Toyota has updated this model in the South African market. Now, the hatchback features new standard safety features. The new car assessment program welcomes this improvement and stated it would soon test the revised model.

The Toyota Starlet is a rebadged version of the Suzuki Baleno, sold in South Africa, while its twin version sold in India is known as the Toyota Glanza.

The Starlet is not the only model to receive 0 stars in the new car assessment program. In 2023, the Citroen C3 also received 0 stars from Latin NCAP due to an unstable structure, poor protection in frontal impacts, lack of side head protection, and absence of seatbelt reminders. This model, manufactured in Brazil, also came standard with two airbags and electronic stability control.

Several other models have received 0 stars in safety tests in previous years, including: the Mahindra Scorpio-N (Australian NCAP), Maruti Suzuki S-Presso (Global NCAP), Renault Kwid (ASEAN NCAP), and Hyundai Verna/Accent (Latin NCAP).

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