New models from Audi, Ford, and Tesla rival Xpeng have received top marks in the latest safety test from Euro NCAP. In contrast, the European Car of the Year 2023 has underperformed, achieving a safety rating below average.
The autumn lineup of new and exciting car models is being put to the test in Euro NCAP’s first assessment of the season, which includes eight vehicles and a reevaluation. Among the contenders are the new Audi Q6 e-tron, Ford Explorer, and the Chinese Xpeng G6, which is already shaping up as a formidable competitor to the popular Tesla Model Y, especially in terms of safety.
Leading the pack is the new electric Audi Q6 e-tron, achieving an impressive top-five overall result in Euro NCAP’s history of tests. Following it in this assessment are the Ford Explorer and Xpeng G6.
These three vehicles share the advantage of having all their safety systems not only as standard but also functioning exceptionally well. They provide strong collision safety for both large and small occupants, as well as effective protection for vulnerable road users like pedestrians.
“It’s encouraging to see that some of the most intriguing electric cars available are also among the safest on the market. This means that consumers can choose any of these three vehicles without worrying about safety – it’s top-tier,” stated Søren W. Rasmussen, FDM’s representative at Euro NCAP.
Conversely, the Jeep Avenger has not performed as well. Named Car of the Year 2023, it has received only three stars in this 2024 test. The lower score is attributed not only to inadequate collision safety for younger passengers but also to its lackluster performance in pedestrian safety and the effectiveness of its safety systems compared to other tested vehicles.
Moreover, the Jeep Avenger is missing some fundamental safety features, including a center airbag between the front seats. While these issues may seem minor, they contribute to a perception of the vehicle that, despite its exciting qualities, fails to meet the safety standards expected of a ‘Car of the Year.’ This situation is partly due to the vehicle launching before Euro NCAP’s recent stricter safety requirements were implemented.
“However, it is disappointing to see that the Jeep Avenger hasn’t scored better. While it is modern and well-designed in many aspects, it appears that Jeep has not prioritized safety adequately. For FDM, this highlights the crucial role Euro NCAP plays in offering a clearer picture of a vehicle’s safety attributes, beyond what a Car of the Year award might suggest,” said Søren W. Rasmussen.
Among the other four cars tested, the Subaru Crosstrek and Subaru Impreza both achieved five stars, while their sister models, the Renault Captur and Renault Symbioz, received four stars.
Additionally, a reevaluation awarded five stars to the plug-in hybrid version of the BYD Seal U, which was previously assessed in its electric version last year.
Tested Vehicles:
https://fdm.dk/aarets-bil-europa-skuffer-ny-sikkerhedstest
