'Tis the season . . . for 5 star safety

The Australasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP) today released nine new ANCAP safety ratings, just in time for the holiday season.

The Fiat Panda, Ford EcoSport, Isuzu D-Max 4x4 crew cab, Isuzu MU-X 4x4, Mercedes-Benz CLA Class, Nissan Altima, Nissan Pulsar hatch, Toyota Hilux 4x4 dual cab and Suzuki SX4 S-cross all received the top 5 star safety rating.

“There is an exceptional range of 5 star cars across all market segments. Whether you are after a large car, an SUV, a people mover, a small car, it doesn’t matter – there are many 5 star cars in every market category – accept nothing less” said Lauchlan McIntosh, ANCAP Chairman.

“The holidays are a time to relax, refresh and reinvigorate for the New Year. Sadly, the good cheer and happy times are often destroyed by tragedy on the road. Don’t let the anticipation of and preparation for the holidays and festive season distract you from taking the utmost care when you head out onto the road.

"Recognise the risks of and be alert to changing conditions: there will be heavier traffic and road works; you may become distracted or fatigued; weather may change suddenly; you may be travelling at an inappropriate speed or too close to the car in front. If you recognise these risks you are part way to avoiding them altogether.

“With car safety improving, we are making progress in road safety and there is plenty more to come. Your next car may well have such sophisticated autonomous technology that it will become increasingly difficult to have a crash and what a wonderful day that will be.”

ANCAP wishes everyone a very happy and safe holiday and festive season.

ANCAP is supported by all Australian and New Zealand motoring clubs, the Australian Government, the New Zealand Government, Australian state and territory governments, the Victorian Transport Accident Commission, NRMA Insurance and the FIA Foundation.

To search individual crash test results for over 450 vehicles, learn more about safety technologies, explore interactive features, watch videos and to download images and media releases visit ancap.com.au.