In the test, the new-generation Tucson compact SUV achieved high scores in all areas of assessment, with Euro NCAP said that it showed “a worthy evolution in terms of safety all-round, and more specifically in safety assist” compared to the 2006 test of its predecessor. AEB technology is offered as option on the Tucson but it was not included in the rating as the uptake is not expected to be high enough.

However, the Vauxhall Viva / Opel Karl city car scored four stars, with the organisation saying the result was a “commendable one for a car in this popular segment” but highlighting two areas of concern. In the frontal offset test, the head bottomed out the airbag and in the side pole impact the chest was protected poorly. The tests showed that chest protection offered to the rear small female passenger dummy in the latest full-width rigid barrier test was also weak while the driver slipped under the seatbelt, resulting in elevated risk at knee and femur injuries. Euro NCAP said that with better optimised restraint systems the model might have made a bigger impression. 

The Mazda MX-5 also achieved a four star rating – in keeping with the performance of rival model, the Audi TT, which was tested earlier this year. The Mazda was credited with good all-round performance in crash tests with exceptional pedestrian protection thanks to the deployable bonnet fitted as standard. However, as with the TT, it lost points for not fitting the latest crash avoidance technology, with Euro NCAP particularly noting the absence of AEB, which it said is offered at least as an option on many similarly priced cars.