Top: Audi A5 – Side Mobile Barrier test 2024 Above: MG MGS5 EV – Mobile Progressive Deformable Barrier
As cars grow heavier and larger, Euro NCAP continues its mission to make roads safer for everyone—not just drivers and passengers, but also pedestrians, cyclists, and occupants of other vehicles.
In its latest round of crash testing, Euro NCAP assessed 16 new models from brands like Audi, Tesla, Renault, and Volkswagen. Seven earned top five-star ratings, including the Audi A5 PHEV, Tesla Model 3, and newcomer Voyah COURAGE. Others, like the Dacia Bigster, came in lower, reflecting trade-offs between budget design and safety performance.
But beyond the star ratings, Euro NCAP’s attention is shifting to an emerging concern: car bloat. Today’s cars are on average 100 kg heavier than a decade ago, driven by the rise of SUVs and electric vehicles. While these cars offer excellent protection for their own occupants, they may be more dangerous for others in a crash.
A key test—the Mobile Progressive Deformable Barrier (MPDB)—reveals how cars behave in head-on collisions with other vehicles. Some large SUVs, like the Audi Q5 and VW Tayron, performed well in overall safety but scored poorly in “compatibility,” meaning they could cause more harm to other vehicles in a crash.
“This isn’t about calling these cars unsafe,” said Dr. Aled Williams, Programme Director at Euro NCAP. “It’s about pushing the industry to reduce the damage big, heavy vehicles can inflict in a collision.”
Some automakers are already stepping up. Mazda’s CX-60 and CX-80 show how careful front-end design can help distribute crash forces more safely.
Euro NCAP’s message is clear: as vehicles get bigger, safety must scale with responsibility—not just for drivers, but for everyone on the road.
Top Ratings This Round (5 Stars):
Audi A5 PHEV, Audi Q5, MG MGS5 EV, Tesla Model 3, Toyota C-HR PHEV, Voyah COURAGE, VW Tayron
Honourable Mention: Kia EV3 (5 stars with optional safety pack)
Lowest Rating: Dacia Bigster (3 stars)
For full results and more insights, visit Euro NCAP’s website.
