Euro NCAP looks back over the past year, choosing a trio of models as the safest cars of 2018.
The year 2018 was also marked by the higher demand for tests to be carried out, especially those related to active safety systems, evaluating in a more exhaustive way the automatic emergency braking systems and maintenance in the carriageway.
It fell to the Nissan Leaf to be the first car tested under these new tests, which passed with flying colors, achieving the desirable five stars. However, it was not enough to be part of the best of the year.
The safest cars of 2018
Euro NCAP selected three models for four categories: Mercedes-Benz A-Class, Hyundai Nexo and the Lexus ES. Interestingly, only one of them is currently sold in Portugal, the Class A. The Nexus, the SUV fuel cell by Hyundai is not scheduled for sale in our country, and the Lexus ES will only reach us during 2019.
The Mercedes-Class A was the best in the Small Family Car category, and it was also the one who achieved the highest score of all tests performed in 2018 by Euro NCAP. The Hyundai Nexo was the best in the Large SUV category and finally, the Lexus ES turned out to be the best in two categories: Large Family Car, and Hybrids and Electrics.
Despite all being five-star vehicles, the results are not comparable between them, justifying the existence of several categories. This is because we are talking about vehicles with different types and… weight. The Euro NCAP crash tests, for example, simulate the collision between two vehicles of equivalent mass, meaning that the results obtained in a 1350 kg Class A cannot be compared with more than 1800 kg in a Nexus.
How do you get to be best in class?
To be the best in your class or category (Best in Class), a calculation is performed that sums the scores in each of the areas assessed: adult occupants, child occupants, pedestrians and security assistants. To be eligible, only your results with available standard equipment are considered — options that might improve your rating (such as some safety equipment packages) are excluded.
Michiel van Ratingen, Euro NCAP Secretary GeneralIn 2018 we introduced new and tougher tests, with a particular focus on protecting the most vulnerable road users. This year's three Best-in-Class winners have clearly demonstrated that carmakers are striving for the highest levels of protection and that Euro NCAP ratings are a catalyst for these crucial improvements or safety.