Another seven cars have scored full five-star ratings in the latest round of Euro NCAP crash safety results. The headline performers are the Mercedes-Benz EQC electric car and CLA coupe, while SsangYong also achieved a brand first.
All seven cars were fitted with a high level of standard safety equipment, including automomous emergency braking (AEB). This meant they could be awarded five-star safety scored with no provisos.
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Sometimes, car makers restrict five-star safety features to more expensive models, but no model in the summer 2019 tests is affected here.
The full list of five-star cars shows a broad range of new-for-2019 models:
- Audi A1
- BMW Z4
- Mercedes-Benz CLA
- Mercedes-Benz EQC
- Skoda Kamiq
- SsangYong Korando
“It’s notable that five-star ratings have been awarded to such an eclectic group,” said Euro NCAP board member Matthew Avery, “proving that good safety performance can be realised whatever the category or sticker price.”
Euro NCAP also retested the latest Ford Focus. The previous test highlighted an issue with front seat whiplash protection. Ford has modified the seat design and head restraints, and Euro NCAP now says the Focus “demonstrates good whiplash protection in rear-end collisions.
“The outcome… reaffirms that the Focus is an all-round family car with great safety credentials.”
Other standout cars included the Mercedes-Benz CLA, which scored more than 90 percent across all four Euro NCAP tests, while the SsangYong Korando becomes the firm’s first five-star Euro NCAP car.
The BMW Z4 two-seat roadster scored an exceptional 97 percent for adult occupant protection.
Euro NCAP secretary general Michiel van Ratingen said: “From these results, achieving five stars may look easy, but to meet test and fitment requirements for technology are very demanding an always updated to incorporate the latest technology development and address priorities in road safety.”
Next year, the Euro NCAP tests will get even tougher, he added, with “another step-change in our rating requirements”.