The latest round of Euro NCAP crash test results bring positive news for Mercedes-Benz, Skoda and Tesla, but the increasingly stringent tests highlight the need for some manufacturers to improve the standard offering of safety assistance systems. Models earning the coveted five-star rating included the Tesla Model 3, Skoda Scala, Mercedes-Benz B-Class and GLE.
The DS 3 Crossback and Kia Ceed both received five-star ratings but only with the optional Safety Pack added. With the standard basic specification, which is what the test is primarily based on, both cars scored only four-star ratings. The testing body advised that potential buyers of ether car should inquire about the optional safety equipment on offers as Euro NCAP test have shown that their respective 'Advanced Driver Assistance' and 'Active Safety Brake' packs will deliver better real-world safety performance.
Proving that it isn't just expensive premium cars delivering the goods on safety, the new Skoda Scala hatchback earned a five-star rating that included 97 per cent adult occupant protection and 87 per cent child occupant protection.
Tesla's driver assistance systems helped
One area that the Tesla Model 3 excelled was the frontal offset deformable barrier crash test. This element of the test has been a significant part of Euro NCAP's assessment since its establishment in 1997. In the Safety Assist tests the Model 3 scored 94 per cent, making it the best yet under the latest testing procedures. It was remarked upon that the Tesla's driver assistance systems including land keeping support, autonomous emergency braking and speed assist all contributed to this new high bar.
Successful streak for Mercedes-Benz
The top marks for both the B-Class and GLE represent the tenth and eleventh five-star results for Mercedes-Benz since 2014. Where the GLE scored best was adult occupancy, with 91 per cent, while child occupant protection was rated just as high at 90 per cent. Earlier this year the boxy G-Class took top marks.
Testing due to get harder
Commenting on the latest round of test results, Euro NCAP's Michiel van Ratingen, said: It's great to see cars doing so well. Our tests get tougher and tougher, and cars continue to perform well, which means that car-buyers are getting an ever-safer range of vehicles to choose from."
From next year the Euro NCAP tests will again change and become more difficult, forcing manufacturers to continue improving the safety of their cars. "Next year, we up the ante again, with a better test of driver-assistance systems, a completely new frontal crash test and more attention to protection in side crashes. These new tests should help to make the roads safer for everyone," added van Ratingen.