Manufacturers responding to stringent safety standards

All seven cars tested by Euro NCAP in September were awarded five-star safety ratings.

The models included the Audi A1, Ford Focus, Mercedes-Benz CLA, Mercedes-Benz EQC, Škoda Kamiq and SsangYong Korando.

Matthew Avery, Director of Insurance Research at Thatcham Research and Euro NCAP board member, said, ‘2019 is shaping up to be one of the most consistent on record in terms of new car safety. All cars tested this year have been awarded five-star ratings, which is significant given the ever-increasing demands Euro NCAP places on carmakers.

‘It’s also notable that five-star ratings have been awarded to such an eclectic group, proving that good safety performance can be realised whatever the category or sticker price.’

Achieving a five-star Euro NCAP rating is now impossible without Autonomous Emergency Braking fitted, and this standard has driven near to 100% fitment on this year’s new cars.

Matthew continued, ‘Drivers can have growing confidence that a new car will come straight off the forecourt with Autonomous Emergency Braking, which is great news for accident prevention. Other important crash avoidance technologies such as Lane Assist, to help prevent drivers from running off the road, one of the most catastrophic accident types, and Speed Assistance, are fitted as standard to all seven cars tested too.’

The SsangYong Korando is the first car made by the budget South Korean brand to be awarded a five-star rating, with the Tivoli and XLV scoring four-stars in 2016.

“SsangYong has produced solid safety performers in the past, but this is the first time the brand has achieved a five-star rating. A warm welcome to the five-star safety club,” comments Avery.