The latest Isuzu D-Max and single/space cab versions of the Holden Colorado have rated four-stars after barrier testing by ANCAP, leading the safety watchdog to criticize the two manufacturers.
While the crew cab Holden Colorado achieved the maximum five-star rating, the single/space cab models and the Isuzu D-Max were marked down because they are fitted with single seat belt pretensioners and driver seat-belt reminder. Crew cab models go further with dual pretensioners and seat belt reminders for both front seat occupants.
The difference is an example of the fine line in the ANCAP safety ratings (Isuzu says the D-Max was just 2.02 points shy of five-star) but spells bad news for both manufacturers as many fleet operators, conscious of occupational health and safety requirements for their employees, require company vehicles to carry the five-star score.
Interestingly, in Euro NCAP testing the Isuzu D-Max actually outscored the Volkswagen Amarok in the areas of child occupant protection, pedestrian safety and safety assistance technology.
Both the Holden Colorado and Isuzu D-Max share a common chassis platform.
We expect both Holden and Isuzu will introduce running changes to address this issue and garner a five-star rating for both vehicles.
