Euro NCAP experts have published rating of the safest cars in 2012by analyzing the results of all crash tests conducted over the past year.
Eight cars showed the best results in their class. As before, the tests took into account the ability of the car to protect children, adult passengers, pedestrians, as well as the effectiveness of preventive security systems.
8. BMW 3-series
Among the D-Class sedans, the best was the BMW 3-Series, ahead of the Mercedes C-Class and Audi A4 in almost all parameters. Since 1975, 6 generations of the third series have already been released. BMW 320d, LHD took part in Euro NCAP tests.
7. Renault Clio
The fourth generation of Europe's popular Clio is the absolute winner rating of the safest cars in 2012 in the class of ultra-compact and compact cars. Renault Clio with 1.0 base grade, LHD engine took part in the tests.
6. Ford Transit
In 2012, for the first time, Euro NCAP experts arranged crash tests for minivans. It is in this category that Transit has left behind all competitors, having won the title of the safest. Ford Transit Custom with 2.2 diesel "Trend" Combi, LHD engine participated in the tests
5. Ford Kuga
The second generation Kuga was voted the safest compact crossover vehicle. The tests involved Ford Kuga 2,0 diesel "Trend", LHD. The experts' ratings were distributed as follows: "5 stars" for the safety of adult passengers and the driver, "4 stars" for child safety and "3 stars" for the protection of pedestrians.
4. Hyundai Santa Fe
The third generation of the mid-size crossover, designed on the Hyundai Sonata platform, was the best in its class in 2012 crash tests. Manufacturers have significantly improved safety performance - this is the first generation of Santa Fe to receive 5 Euro NCAP stars.
3. Fiat 500L
The car received 5 Euro NCAP stars, securing the victory in the micro van class. The car is based on the Fiat 500, but it is 594 mm longer, slightly wider and taller than its "relative". A Fiat 500L with a 1.4 "Easy" 4 × 2 LHD petrol engine took part in the crash tests.
2. Ford B-MAX
Another micro van in the ranking of the safest cars in 2012... Like the Fiat 500L, the car earned 5 stars in the tests. The tests involved a Ford B-Max with a 1.5 "Trend" diesel engine, LHD.
1. Volvo V40
The five-door hatchback was first introduced last year at the Geneva Salon. In the Euro NCAP tests, the car demonstrated the traditionally high level of safety for Volvo, becoming the winner in the golf class.