Tesla’s Model 3 extends its five-star NCAP safety rating

(Posted on 09/07/19)

Tesla’s Model 3 has extended its five-star rating in the latest Euro Ncap safety tests with a perfect score in the Barrier Crash test, a mainstay of Euro NCAP’s assessment since it began in 1997.

Its performance in the Safety Assist tests particularly impressed, thanks to driver assistance systems like lane support, speed assist and autonomous emergency braking. The Tesla’s 94% score in 2019 Safety Assist tests is the best yet under Euro NCAP’s most recent protocol.

Euro NCAP has released the safety ratings of six new vehicles, four of which achieved five stars. The Tesla Model 3, the new Škoda Scala, the Mercedes-Benz B-Class and the latest GLE also from Mercedes.

The new Kia Ceed and crossover SUV DS 3 Crossback rated four stars with equipment offered as standard but both make it to five stars when equipped with an optional safety pack.

NCAP’s Michiel van Ratingen said: “It’s great to see cars doing so well. Our tests get tougher and tougher, and cars continue to perform well, which means that car-buyers are getting an ever-safer range of vehicles to choose from. Next year, we up the ante again, with better tests of driver-assistance systems, a completely new frontal crash test and more attention to protection in side crashes. These new tests should help to make the roads safer for everyone.”

Another novice, Skoda’s new Scala, positioned between the Fabia and Octavia, just pips the Model 3 in overall crash performance, with a 97% score in Adult Occupant Protection. This it among the top small-family cars tested by Euro NCAP for this part of the assessment, along with the recently tested Mercedes-Benz A-Class and Mazda 3.

With B-Class and GLE ratings, Mercedes-Benz is continuing its winning streak with its 10th and 11th solid five-star result since 2014.

Potential buyers of the KIA Ceed and DS 3 Crossback should inquire about the optional safety equipment on offer as Euro NCAP tests have shown that their respective ‘Advanced Driver Assistance’ and ‘Active Safety Brake’ packs will deliver better real-world safety performance.

Euro NCAP created the five-star safety rating system to help consumers and businesses compare vehicles more easily and to help identify the safest choice.

The safety rating is determined from a series of vehicle tests, designed and carried out by Euro NCAP.

For information on leasing any of the vehicles listed, contact www.fleetsauce.co.uk