Six new models have recently undergone safety tests: the Audi A3, Ford B-MAX, Isuzu D-Max, Kia Cee’d, Renault Clio and Volvo V40. Euro NCAP reports how these vehicle measure up against the latest requirements and finds encouraging trends.
The new Volvo V40 achieved five stars and is Euro NCAP’s all-time top scorer in its segment. What particularly distinguishes the V40 from other vehicles is the world-first pedestrian airbag technology, fitted as standard on the entire V40 range. In case of a crash with a pedestrian, sensors detect the impact, release the bonnet and deploy the airbag in a split second.
The pedestrian airbag in the V40 lifts the bonnet and partly covers the stiff A-pillars, providing greater protection for the pedestrian. In Euro NCAP’s tests, this has translated into an 88 per cent score in pedestrian protection, the highest yet achieved in this part of the assessment.
With its rear sliding doors and innovative design, the Ford B-MAX has achieved five stars. Ford has done away with the middle columns on the B-MAX, known as the B-pillars, that usually separate the front and rear passenger compartments.
To ensure the highest levels of protection in lateral collisions, a structure is incorporated into the doors to form a central post when the doors are shut. Euro NCAP found that safety was uncompromised as the B-MAX scored 92 per cent for adult occupant protection. The mini MPV also comes with active city stop, an AEB system previously rewarded under Euro NCAP Advanced, which helps the driver achieve maximum braking effectiveness in an emergency situation.
The list of five star achievers is closed with the latest releases of Renault Clio, Kia Cee’d and Audi A3. Compared to their respective predecessors, this latest generation of hatchbacks offers significantly improved pedestrian protection among other notable improvements.
With a creditable four star rating, safety on board the new Isuzu D-Max is significantly improved compared to the model tested in 2008.
Michiel van Ratingen, Euro NCAP secretary general, says : “In Europe 14 per cent of all road traffic fatalities are pedestrians. While in the last three years Euro NCAP has increased the requirements, the vehicle manufacturers have stepped up to the challenge. The scores observed today were unthinkable just a few years ago with the new V40 setting a new standard.”
Detailed results of the tested cars are published on the Euro NCAP website. And the next publication of results is scheduled for November 28, 2012.
