Euro NCAP has released the results of its latest tests, which saw both the Audi A6 and the VW Touareg achieve a maximum five-star rating but the Suzuki Jimny was awarded just three.

The Touareg and the A6 scored particularly well for vulnerable road user protection

In the tests, which saw the Ford Tourneo Connect get a four-star rating, the Audi A6 and the VW Touareg scored particularly well for vulnerable road user protection, with figures of 81% and 72% respectively, including Euro NCAP’s new requirements for cyclist-detecting AEB.

The A6 was awarded a figure of 93% for adult occupant protection, 85% for child occupant and 76% for safety assist while the Touareg earned 89% for adult occupant, 86% for child occupant and 81% for safety assist.

The Ford Tourneo Connect compact panel van, an updated version of the vehicle last tested in 2013, scored figures of 92% for adult occupant, 79% for child occupant, 65% for vulnerable road users and 75% for safety assist, helped by its standard fit of AEB and lane support.

However, the Suzuki Jimny was criticised for its “underwhelming driver assistance systems”, which scored it just 50% for safety assist and 52% for vulnerable road users. It was rated at 73% for adult occupant protection and 84% for child occupant.

Michiel van Ratingen, secretary general of Euro NCAP, said: “Overall, these latest results demonstrate that, as Euro NCAP’s test protocols evolve and become more demanding, a 5-star rating remains an achievable although challenging objective for the auto industry.

“It is particularly positive and welcome that manufacturers are performing well in the assessment of vulnerable road user protection systems such as AEB for cyclists. Euro NCAP has now tested six models which feature this life saving technology. These driver assistance systems are the building blocks for potential automation in the future. Importantly they offer tangible safety benefits today.