Euro NCAP experts published 2012 safest car ratingby analyzing the results of all the crash tests conducted last year.
Eight cars showed the best results in their class. As before, the testing process took into account the capabilities of the car to protect children, adult passengers, pedestrians, as well as the effectiveness of preventive safety systems.
8. BMW 3 Series
Among the D-class sedans, the BMW 3 Series became the best, surpassing in almost all respects the Mercedes C-Class and Audi A4. Since 1975, 6 generations of the third series have been released. In tests Euro NCAP participated BMW 320d, LHD.
7. Renault Clio
The fourth generation of the popular in Europe Clio became the absolute winner ranking of the safest cars in 2012 in the class of ultra-compact and compact cars. Renault Clio participated in the tests with the 1.0 base grade engine, LHD.
6. Ford Transit
In 2012, for the first time, Euro NCAP experts staged crash tests for minivans. It was in this category that Transit left behind all competitors, winning the title of safest. The tests involved Ford Transit Custom with the 2.2 diesel engine Trend Combi, LHD
5. Ford Kuga
Kuga second generation was recognized as the safest car in the class of compact crossovers. The tests involved Ford Kuga 2.0 diesel Trend, LHD. Expert estimates were distributed as follows: “5 stars” for the safety of adult passengers and the driver, “4 stars” for child safety and “3 stars” for the protection of pedestrians.
4. Hyundai Santa Fe
The third generation of the mid-size crossover, designed on the Hyundai Sonata platform, became the best in its class according to the results of the 2012 crash tests. Manufacturers have significantly improved safety performance - this is the first generation of Santa Fe, which received 5 Euro NCAP stars.
3. Fiat 500L
The car received 5 Euro NCAP stars, securing victory in the micro-van class. The car is designed on the basis of the Fiat 500, but it is 594 mm longer, slightly wider and taller than its "relative". Fiat 500L participated in crash tests with a 1.4 “Easy” 4 × 2 gasoline engine, LHD.
2. Ford B-MAX
Another microven in 2012 ranking of the safest cars. Like the Fiat 500L, the car earned 5 stars according to test results. The test involved a Ford B-Max car with an engine of 1.5 diesel Trend, LHD.
1. Volvo V40
The five-door hatchback was first introduced last year at the Geneva Salon. At Euro NCAP tests, the car demonstrated a traditionally high level of safety for Volvo, becoming the winner in the golf class.
