5 star safety leads the way this Christmas

Car buyers have even more choice this festive season with ANCAP today releasing 5 star safety ratings for the Kia Sorento, Infiniti FX, Hyundai Santa Fe, Mitsubishi Outlander and Citroen DS4.

"Just in time for Christmas, motorists can pack up their family and head off on their summer sojourns in any one of these cars knowing they are travelling in some of the safest on the market," said ANCAP Chairman, Mr Lauchlan McIntosh.

"Safety should be the first consideration whenever we hit the road - particularly during the busy Christmas and New Year holiday period. For those who are hitting the dealerships before hitting the road, I urge you to look for a car which has been awarded the maximum 5 star ANCAP safety rating. You can check ANCAP safety ratings on your smartphone at ancap.com.au while you're at the showroom."

These results cap off a busy year for the independent crash testing authority with ANCAP safety ratings published for 48 vehicles, of which 39 (81%) achieved a 5 star rating; eight (17%) achieved a 4 star rating and just one, the Mahindra Pik-Up, scored 3 stars. There were no 1 or 2 star rated vehicles tested in 2012.

"All of these 5 star cars offer extra trimmings - a range of safety assist technologies which enhance the level of safety provided to both occupants and other road users."

"ANCAP wishes everyone a very happy and safe Christmas," said Mr McIntosh.

ANCAP, the independent crash testing body, 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.

For a full list of ANCAP safety ratings and model specifications, and vehicle safety information visit ancap.com.au.