Other models gaining the maximum award included the BMW X1, Lexus RX, Mercedes-Benz GLC, Infiniti Q30, Kia Optima and Sportage, Renault Megane and Talisman (not sold in the UK) and Vauxhall Astra.

Meanwhile the Nissan NP300 Navara and the MINI Clubman scored four stars, while the BMW Z4 was awarded three and the Chrysler Ypsilon (only on sale in the UK until 2017) scored just two, with Euro NCAP saying it disappointed in important areas of the assessment, such as adult occupant protection and safety assist.

Euro NCAP said the high proportion of five stars was due the fact that most models tested in this batch of cars not only offer low and/or high speed autonomous emergency braking (AEB) systems, either as an option or standard, but also have incorporated more advanced restraint technology on the rear seats to cope with the newest full-width frontal crash test.

Michiel van Ratingen, Euro NCAP secretary general, said: “In less than two years, since Euro NCAP started its campaign to encourage car manufacturers to focus on AEB systems, we have noticed an increasing number of manufacturers responding to our call. Some of the systems are already capable of braking for pedestrians which will be the next test in Euro NCAP’s rating scheme in 2016.”