Euro NCAP has named its best performers for 2017, which saw Volkswagen take three of the six titles.

The new Volvo XC60 was Euro NCAP’s highest overall performer for 2017.

Following tests last year on nearly 70 models, the Volkswagen Arteon, T Roc and Polo emerged as the winners in the Executive, Small Offroad and Supermini categories. Meanwhile the Small MPV and Family Car titles went to the Vauxhall/Opel Crossland X and the Subaru XV/Impreza respectively. The Volvo XC60 took the Large Offroad title and was also named as the year’s best overall performer.

Michiel van Ratingen, secretary general of Euro NCAP, said: “Congratulations to Volkswagen! To win best-in-class in three different categories is a great achievement and underlines the company’s commitment to providing the highest levels of safety to its customers. Subaru and Opel are also offering class-leading products while Volvo continues to underline its reputation for safety. More broadly, though, it is encouraging to see so many new cars performing so well in all areas of safety, and being equipped with greater and greater levels of life-saving technology.”

Analysis of the 2017 results also showed that pedestrian-detecting autobrake systems were available on 82% of the cars tested and standard equipment on 62% of them. Speed assistance was offered on 92% of the new cars tested and standard equipment on 82%. And continued improvements in crash-protection saw 96% of models offer standard two or more seating positions in the car compatible with new i-Size child restraints and 94% of new cars now offer rear seat load limiters and belt tensioners as standard.

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