The Ford Ka is now the latest in a long string of cars to have failed Latin NCAP crash tests.

Made in Brazil, where it also happens to be the third best-selling car, the Ka achieved 0 stars for adult occupant protection. You read that correctly, ZERO.

After earning four stars during a frontal crash test some two years ago, the A-segment car was now subjected to the additional side barrier impact test. Performed at 50km/h (31mph), it showed high levels of injuries in the chest area of the dummy, high B-pillar intrusion into the compartment, plus the opening of a door.

The results for child occupant protection were also poor, as the Ford Ka failed to reach a maximum 5-star safety rating, earning only 3 stars. Most points were lost because of the poor ISOFIX marking, not being able to disconnect the front passenger airbag when installing a rear-facing child seat, and due to the right door that opened during the side impact, exposing the child dummy to high risks of injury.

These results are also valid for the Ford Figo/Aspire model, which is sold in certain parts of South America, including Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador, Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Honduras, and Panama.

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