MG5 in Malaysia: Thai CBU, Not Zero-Star ANCAP? What's the Deal?
You've probably seen the sleek new MG5 zipping around town. It's a stylish, spacious, and affordable sedan, but there's one thing that's got everyone talking: the ANCAP safety rating. You see, the MG5 sold in Malaysia is a Thai-built CBU (completely built up) model, and it hasn't been tested by ANCAP. This has some folks worried – is it actually a zero-star car?
Let's break it down:
What's the Big Deal With ANCAP?
ANCAP is the independent Australian New Car Assessment Program. They test cars based on a variety of crash tests and safety features, giving them a star rating from zero to five. A five-star rating is the gold standard, indicating a car is built to protect its occupants in a crash.
The problem is, some cars, like the Thai-built MG5, haven't been tested by ANCAP. This doesn't mean they're automatically unsafe, but it does raise red flags.
What About ASEAN NCAP?
You might be wondering, "But didn't the MG5 get a four-star rating from ASEAN NCAP?" Well, yes, but ASEAN NCAP is a different organization. Their standards are not as strict as ANCAP's, and they don't cover the same tests. So, a four-star ASEAN NCAP rating doesn't necessarily translate to a four-star ANCAP rating.
So, Should You Be Worried?
Here's the thing: It's tough to say for sure how safe the MG5 is without an official ANCAP rating. However, the car does have some basic safety features, like airbags and anti-lock brakes.
The good news is, MG is committed to safety. They've stated that they'll be submitting the MG5 for ANCAP testing in the future. So, if you're concerned, you can wait for the official results before making your decision.
What's the Bottom Line?
The MG5 is a great-looking car with a lot to offer for the price. However, the lack of an ANCAP rating is a major concern for many buyers. If you're looking for the absolute safest option, you might want to consider a car that's been tested and rated by ANCAP. But if you're on a budget and the MG5's features appeal to you, keep an eye out for that ANCAP rating and make an informed decision.