The interesting results of the EuroNCAP tests for six brand new models were published. The all new 2013 models including the Audi A3 hatchback, Renault Clio supermini, Ford B-MAX minivan, Kia Cee’d hatch, Isuzu D-Max pickup and Volvo V40 compact have undergone safety tests by Euro NCAP and all but one of the vehicles assessed received the full five-star rating.
The new Volvo V40 five-door hatchback achieved five stars and became Euro NCAP’s all-time top scorer in its segment.
What sets apart the Volvo V40 from its counterparts like the Audi A3 is Volvo’s world-first Pedestrian Airbag technology. The system lifts the bonnet and deploys an exterior airbag that covers the stiff A-pillars. In Euro NCAP’s tests, this has translated into an 88% score in pedestrian protection, the highest score yet achieved in this part of the assessment.
The new Ford B-MAX scored 92 percent for adult occupant protection while EuroNCAP also awarded points for the Active City Safety system that helps the driver achieve maximum braking effectiveness in an emergency situation.
The new Isuzu D-Max pickup truck may have been awarded with four stars, but that’s a significant improvement over the model tested in 2008 that had failed to impress with a two star rating for adult occupant protection and just one star for pedestrian protection.
Euro NCAP noted that it was overall happy about the results in pedestrian protection.
“In Europe, 14 percent 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.”
