Euro NCAP’s praise
JAPANESE makers have impressed in the first round of results from Euro NCAP’s revised programme.
Toyota, Mazda and Mitsubishi all scored full 5-star ratings under the tougher new regime.
But it was disappointment for Citroen and Subaru, whose cars only managed to score 4 out of 5 stars.
Mazda earned 5 stars with its Mazda 6, as did the Mitsubishi Lancer, Toyota Avensis and Toyota IQ.
The latter result is particularly impressive; the tiny 4-seat Smart-rivaling IQ was the best of all cars tested for occupant protection. It earned 91 per cent in this category.
Remember, though, the measurements are not comparative across sectors. This does not mean the smaller IQ is ‘safer’ than a larger Avensis - despite what customers may think!
Dealers will have to explain this definition carefully.
Citroen got 4 stars for the C3 Picasso. While it protected occupants well, the model only earned 40 per cent for safety assist systems.
This is because ESP is not fitted as standard to enough cars in the range. It is the first illustration of an issue that may arise for makers of cheaper, more affordable cars.
The Subaru Impreza was another car to get 4 stars out of 5. Euro NCAP also marked it down for not fitting ESP to enough models, though the company has since rectified this.
Most outstanding result was the Mitsubishi Lancer’s meagre 34 per cent score for pedestrian safety.
Striking the radical front end may be, but pedestrian-friendly it is not…