yes there were few models without it.. but major issue was no side air bags. There is a also a strict regulation on the type of material manufacturer use in the A and B and C. pillar. Now corolla have it. below is the image of dummy in rear seat with side impact. The dummy is electronic sophisticated device (with avg weight of human, heart , liver, brain and so on) and measured the force and found that without side safety, it can result in head and skull injury and death. The dummy was in seat belt.

Overall evaluation without side airbags "P" which from kindergarten we know means poor. 

current minimum safety standard

Safety is the last on these manufacturers Indus/Atlas/Suzuki's mind. Front driver plus passenger, side airbags , front and rear crumple zones MUST come standard like Engine in every car.