The 2013 Euro NCAP best in class results have been published, detailing the models that achieved the highest scores in their respective classes.
A total of 33 cars were tested in 7 different categories, with the winners gaining the highest overall scores, calculated from the results achieved in adult and child occupant safety, pedestrian protection and safety assist tests.
In particular, 2013 was a good year for electric vehicles as the Renault ZOE was named best supermini, while the Lexus IS 300h hybrid was awarded the best in the large family car class. Additionally, the best in class honour in the small MPV category was shared by the Kia Carens and Ford Tourneo Connect, while the Jeep Cherokee was named the best small off-road 4×4 and the Maserati Ghibli best of the executive category.
For 2013, Euro NCAP updated its assessment of child occupant protection, giving credit to manufacturers that allow for easy installation of child seats, while also testing the voluntary-set intelligent speed assistant systems as part of the vehicle’s rating.
“Euro NCAP is continuously evolving in response to industry innovation and consumer expectation. It is very positive that the number of 4 and 5 stars is still significant despite the ever-increasing requirements,” said Michiel van Ratingen, Euro NCAP secretary general.
“The decision to reward collision avoidance technologies on new cars will encourage more widespread fitment and further improve the safety of all road users in Europe. We hope that this, together with very high levels of occupant protection, will allow consumers to choose the very safest vehicles in 2014 and after.”
Additionally, the Chinese-built Qoros 3 Sedan was rated the best performer of any car tested in 2013 as well as the best performing small family car, but the vehicle isn’t yet sold in the UK.