Euro NCAP Announces Safest Tested Cars of 2009

Euro NCAP, the independent body that assesses vehicle safety, has released its top five safest crash tested cars of 2009. The results are based on a culmination of scores assessing adult occupant protection, child occupant protection, pedestrian safety, and safety assist technology such as traction control. This evaluation process involves up to four tests, three vehicles, three front seats, four child seats, and various spare parts.

The highest achiever last year was the Volkswagen Golf VI which scored the maximum five stars overall and 97% for adult occupant protection. The Honda Insight and Toyota Prius finished second and third respectively, and the Hyundai i20 finished fourth. Fifth place was awarded to three vehicles - the Toyota Avensis, Volvo XC60, and Vauxhall Astra.

During 2009 Euro NCAP crash tested thirty-three models many of which achieved the maximum five stars. However, there may not be as many high achievers this year as the scoring becomes more stringent. For example, the five star rating now requires an adult occupant protection score of 80% - rather than 75%.

Euro NCAP's next instalment of results are expected on March 3, 2010.

By Stephen Turvil, motoring.co.uk

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