Euro NCAP Announces Latest Car Safety Ratings

Euro NCAP has released the latest safety ratings for several highly anticipated vehicles, including the Volkswagen Tiguan, Maxus MIFA 7, Ford Tourneo Custom, and two models from the new brand ZEEKR. These evaluations reveal significant advancements in vehicle safety and performance, with some achieving the coveted 5-star rating.

Key Highlights

• Volkswagen Tiguan: The third-generation model boasts a modern design and advanced technologies. It sold around 169,000 units in 2023 and secured a 5-star safety rating.
• Maxus MIFA 7: This electric MPV features a premium design and a 90 kWh battery, offering 479 km on a single charge. It received a 5-star safety rating.
• Ford Tourneo Custom: A more affordable option for large families, this vehicle offers flexible seating for up to nine passengers. It achieved a 3-star rating with standard equipment, which can be upgraded to 4 stars with an optional safety pack.
• ZEEKR 001 and ZEEKR X: Both models from this new brand achieved 5-star safety ratings and the highest Green NCAP rating for environmental performance.

Volkswagen Tiguan

The third-generation Volkswagen Tiguan has made significant strides from its predecessor, featuring a modern exterior design and updated technologies. This family SUV remains highly popular, selling approximately 169,000 units in 2023 and ranking eighth among best-selling cars. The Tiguan offers a wider choice of powertrains and comes equipped with the latest safety technologies such as automatic emergency braking (AEB), lane-keeping assistance, and a driver fatigue monitoring system. It has achieved a 5-star rating, underscoring its commitment to safety.

Maxus MIFA 7

The Maxus MIFA 7, an electric MPV from SAIC Motor, targets a reviving market segment with its premium design and seven-seat capacity. It features a high-density ‘One Pack’ 90 kWh battery that promises a range of 479 km on a single charge. Available in Europe this summer, the MIFA 7 scored highly in crash tests, securing an overall 5-star safety rating.

Ford Tourneo Custom

For those needing a vehicle for large families or additional passengers, the Ford Tourneo Custom presents a less expensive alternative. Based on the Ford Transit Custom van, this passenger car version can accommodate up to nine seats and includes flexible seating arrangements and a modern interior. Despite its advantages, the Tourneo Custom scored an overall safety rating of 3 stars with standard equipment, which can be improved to 4 stars with an optional safety pack.

ZEEKR 001 and ZEEKR X

Launched in 2021, ZEEKR has quickly made a name for itself in the electric vehicle market with the backing of its Chinese parent company, Geely, and a Swedish team. The ZEEKR 001, a large executive hatchback, is noted for its competitive pricing and quality, design, and technology. It achieved a 5-star safety rating, drawing comparisons to the Porsche Panamera. Similarly, the ZEEKR X, a compact SUV, features an innovative interior and also secured a 5-star safety rating.

Green NCAP Ratings

Both ZEEKR models received the highest Green NCAP rating of 5 stars for environmental performance. The ZEEKR X scored 96%, while the ZEEKR 001 scored 95%.

Euro NCAP’s recent evaluations underscore the commitment of various automakers to enhancing vehicle safety and environmental performance. Dr. Michiel van Ratingen, Secretary General of Euro NCAP, highlighted the organization’s ongoing efforts to promote ADAS systems that are both effective and user-friendly, with plans to focus on these aspects more closely in future assessments.

The Renault Scenic E-Tech has also been awarded a 5-star rating in line with 2022 test protocols, joining its partner vehicle, the Renault Megane E-Tech.