Euro NCAP, the independent organization responsible for evaluating the safety of new models on the European market, presented the most recent results. This time, the demanding tests included the Mercedes-Benz X-Class, Jaguar E-Pace, DS 7 Crossback, Porsche Cayenne, BMW X3, Subaru Impreza and XV, and finally, the curious and electric Citroën e-Mehari.
As in the last round of tests, most models fall into the SUV or Crossover category. The exceptions are the Mercedes-Benz pickup truck and the Subaru hatchback.
The e-Mehari, Citroën's electric compact, turned out to be the exception in obtaining the five stars, mainly due to the absence of driver assistance equipment (active safety), such as autonomous emergency braking. The final result was the three stars.
five stars to everyone else
This round of tests couldn't have gone better for the remaining models. Even the Mercedes-Benz X-Class, the first pick-up truck from the German brand, achieved this feat — a type of vehicle where it is not always easy to achieve “good grades” in this type of tests.
Michiel van Ratingen, Secretary General of NCAPThe results may not be surprising to some, but they continue to represent remarkable engineering results. These should not be taken for granted, as the Euro NCAP classification scheme includes over 15 different tests and hundreds of individual requirements, which are reinforced regularly. It's very positive that builders still see the five-star rating as the target for most new models.
Honda Civic has been tested again
Outside this group, the Honda Civic repeated tests again. The reason was the introduction of improvements to the rear seat restraint systems, which caused some concern in the results of the first tests. Among the differences is a modified side airbag.More demanding tests in 2018
Euro NCAP is set to raise the bar for its tests in 2018. Michiel van Ratingen, Secretary General of Euro NCAP, reports the introduction of more tests on autonomous braking systems, which will have to be able to detect and mitigate contact with cyclists . Further tests are planned, meeting the growing automated functions of automobiles that we will see in the coming years. “Our mission is to help consumers understand how these systems work, to show what they're capable of and to explain how they can one day save their lives,” said Michiel van Ratingen.