A total of 14 cars were put through the latest batch of tests, with 10 receiving Euro NCAP’s maximum award of five stars, three gaining four stars and one receiving a two-star result.

The models tested including the Landwind CV9 mid-sized MPV that has been re-introduced to Europe after an unsuccessful first attempt in 2005.

Although the Chinese carmaker said that the CV9 has been ‘has been revamped to meet the strictest European safety standards’, it only scored two stars overall from Euro NCAP, which said that it remains poorly equipped, lacking a side protection airbag, a head protection device and electronic stability control. However, Euro NCAP added that the CV9 came close to meeting the three-star threshold for adult occupant protection.

Dr Michiel van Ratingen, Euro NCAP’s secretary general, said: 'It is clear that vehicles from China, India and other emerging countries will in the next few years become commonplace on European roads. Euro NCAP will ensure that consumers know what levels of safety are offered by these vehicles. By highlighting differences in safety performance, we aim to drive the safety of all cars towards and beyond the high levels we see from more well-established manufacturers. We are confident that Landwind and others will rise to this challenge.’

Other vehicles tested included the Kia Venga, which was reassessed. In February 2010, Euro NCAP highlighted some weaknesses in the car’s performance in the frontal impact test leading to a four-star rating. Kia has made structural changes to the front of the car and have refined the restraint systems to improve the protection of adult and child occupants. The car has now been awarded five stars.

The only executive car reviewed in the latest Euro NCAP tests was the Jaguar XF, which surprisingly received four stars, its rating limited by adult and child occupant protection. In the side pole impact of the XF, chest protection was rated as weak and the car’s seat and head restraint provided marginal whiplash protection.

Volkswagen's new Amarok was tested and received four stars. With 17 points Euro NCAP says it offers the best pedestrian protection in the pick-up class. However, a poor level of chest protection was offered in the side pole test.

From the same stable, Euro NCAP tested the five-door MPV VW Sharan. This car has exactly the same platform, interior fittings and levels of safety equipment as the new Seat Alhambra and the five-star rating applies to both vehicles.

Finally, Euro NCAP’s other top scorers with five-star results are the Audi A1, the BMW MINI Countryman, the Ford C-MAX and Ford Grand C-MAX, the Kia Sportage, the Opel/Vauxhall Meriva and the facelifted VW Passat. The Nissan Micra was rewarded with four stars.