Euro NCAP has just released their seventh batch of results of the year including 15 cars from a range of categories, and with a mixed bag of results. Of the 15 cars, 11 achieved five stars, two got four stars, one was awarded three stars, and another only two stars.
Almost all new cars in this release not only offer low and/or high speed autonomous braking (AEB ) systems, either as an option or standard, but also have incorporated more advanced restraint technology on the rear seats to cope with the newest full-width frontal crash test.
This is reflected in the high proportion of 5-stars cars. Michiel van Ratingen, Euro NCAP Secretary General says: "In less than two years, since Euro NCAP started its campaign to encourage car manufacturers to focus on AEB systems, we have noticed an increasing number of manufacturers responding to our call. Some of the systems are already capable of braking for pedestrians which will be the next test in Euro NCAP’s rating scheme in 2016."
The 5-star club has been enhanced with the BMW X1, Infiniti Q30, Jaguar XE, Jaguar XF, Kia Optima, Kia Sportage, Lexus RX, Mercedes-Benz GLC, Opel Astra, Renault Megane, and Renault Talisman.
The Mini Clubman and Nissan NP300 Navara were both awarded four stars in this latest round of tests.
The BMW Z4 is the third and last roadster tested this year and the one that has been out on the market the longest. The sports car received a facelift in 2013, but it has not kept up with the advancements in Euro NCAP's rating scheme. Lacking crash avoidance technologies such as AEB, lane assist, and speed assist systems that are so common on other popular BMW models, the Z4 received a 3-star rating.
With only two stars, the Lancia Ypsilon disappoints in important areas of the assessment, such as adult occupant protection and safety assist. In terms of safety, the new Ypsilon does little to maintain the legacy of a once famous brand in Europe. Safety-critical consumers can certainly find much better choices in this segment nowadays.
Detailed results and crash test pictures of all 15 vehicles are published on the Euro NCAP website. More results will be released on December 16, 2015.
