The UK’s safest new cars of 2021 have been revealed by Thatcham Research, dominated by fully electric and hybrid models.

Thatcham’s five safest drives of 2021 include the fully electric Škoda Enyaq iV, Polestar 2 and Mercedes EQS along with the hybrid-only Toyota Yaris Cross and the Nissan Qashqai

The five-strong line-up includes the fully electric Škoda Enyaq iV, Polestar 2 and Mercedes EQS along with the hybrid-only Toyota Yaris Cross and the Nissan Qashqai – which gains the e-Power hybrid variant this spring.

Matthew Avery, chief research strategy officer, Thatcham Research, said: “It’s fantastic to see carmakers continuing to prioritise safety, with all but four vehicles tested by Euro NCAP in 2021 achieving a four- or five-star rating. Most are rising to the safety challenge and it’s encouraging to note EVs are performing very well as a group too.”

Thatcham’s list focused on affordable cars that will deliver the biggest benefits to road safety. Of particular importance were robust ‘active’ crash-avoidance systems, effective ‘passive’ occupant protection features, well-delivered driver interface technology, and a commitment to standard fitment across the range.

Avery continued: “As well as the development of active safety technology to help avoid crashes and protect vulnerable road users, we also welcome the continued introduction of passive safety innovations such as centre-airbags, which prevent occupants from colliding into one another during side impacts.”

The vehicles were chosen by a panel of judges comprising experts from Thatcham Research, Euro NCAP and What Car? along with Loughborough University’s Pete Thomas, Emeritus Professor in Road and Vehicle Safety.

The selected vehicles will now form the shortlist for the 2022 What Car? Safety Award, sponsored by Thatcham Research and being revealed on 20 January.

For the cars’ Euro NCAP safety ratings and comments from Thatcham, click here.