Latest Euro NCAP results are now out, with the MG4 and Volkswagen ID. Buzz EVs among the five-star scorers.

The MG4 electric hatch scored a five-score rating across its entire current model range

A total of 14 vehicles were evaluated in the final test batch for 2022 and 11 scored the maximum five-star safety rating.

The line-up spanned Chinese cars, superminis, family cars, off-roaders, MPVs, pick-ups and four premium vehicles – including the Air saloon from US startup brand Lucid, a new rival to the Tesla Model S. It scored five stars, with 90% for adult occupant protection, 91% for child occupant, 78% vulnerable road users and 84% for safety assist.

The VW ID. Buzz electric MPV was awarded 92% for adult occupant protection, 87% for child occupant, 60% for vulnerable road users and 90% for safety assist.

As with previous months, the latest results were also notable for the high number of Chinese brands.

The MG4 electric hatch scored a five-score rating across its entire current model range, including SE and Trophy specifications. It was awarded 83% for adult occupants, 80% child occupants, 75% for vulnerable road users and 78% for safety assist.

Chery’s Omada5 small off-roader and the Mifa 9 electric MPV from SAIC’s Maxus brand also delivered five-star results.

Aside from EVs and Chinese brands, the Ford Ranger and Volkswagen Amarok, co-developed by the two brands, both scored 84% for adults, 90% for children, 74% for vulnerable road users and 84% for safety assistance.

Other five-star results were achieved by the Lexus RX and Land Rover Discovery Sport premium SUVs and the smaller Mercedes-Benz GLC.

The updated Ford Puma crossover and the Volkswagen Touran MPV, however, missed out on five stars “due to challenges in adult occupant protection”. The Peugeot 408 also only achieved four, along with the Citroën C4 X.

Next year will see Euro NCAP update its testing protocols, making them more stringent and providing “increased challenges for vehicle development”. In line with its Vision 2030, the safety assessment programme will focus on a range of new aspects, including autonomous emergency braking (AEB) protocols for motorcycles as well as new scenarios in passive safety for pedestrians and cyclists.