Euro NCAP has announced the final set of safety results from the year, with 15 models assessed and 11 achieving a top five-star rating.
It tested the very first electric pick-up on the European market, with the eTERRON 9, produced by Chinese firm Maxus, achieving a highly commendable five stars.
Among the SUVs tested, the Lexus LBX, the Volvo EX30, and the MINI Countryman all achieved five stars, whilst the MG ZS Hybrid scored a lower four-star rating.
Euro NCAP also tested the prestigious new electric Porsche Macan and the Sabaru Forester, as well as two Chinese electric arrivals on the European market, the Deepal S07 and the Leapmotor C10, with all models achieving the top safety rating.
Among larger SUVs, the Hyundai SANTA FE achieved four stars as a standard rating but that rose to five stars if a customer selected its optional safety technologies, while the Mazda CX-80 also got a top rating of five stars.
Meanwhile, the Audi A5 was also awarded a maximum five-star score and the new electric version of the Renault 5 and Alpine A290 got four-star ratings.
Dr. Michiel van Ratingen, Secretary General Euro NCAP, said, “As we close 2024 with this final set of safety ratings, these results highlight considerable progress across all vehicle classes, even as industry faces significant challenges.
“Despite these pressures, many manufacturers remain steadfast in their commitment to improving road safety, integrating advanced technologies, and prioritising the protection of all road users.”
