Latest Euro NCAP testing has seen the Mazda CX-30 score the highest-ever results for adult occupant protection (AOP).

The CX-30 achieved a near-perfect 99% score for Adult Occupant Protection

One of four cars to undergo the latest round of testing, the CX-30 – which shares much of its DNA with the all-new Mazda 3 tested earlier this year – registered a score of 99% in the AOP category, which assesses the protection offered to driver and front-seat passenger in the event of a crash. Maximum points were awarded in Euro NCAP’s full-width barrier, side impact and side pole tests, with the latter described as the most severe test.

Matthew Avery, director of insurance research, Thatcham Research, said: “This is a truly impressive result. The Mazda CX-30 is a mainstream vehicle, available at an affordable price point, performing at the highest level in impact testing. In the event of an accident, there are few safer places to be than the front seats of the Mazda CX-30.”

“The structure of the vehicle and the performance of its restraints are key. Especially in the side pole test which encourages carmakers to fit side-curtain airbags to protect occupants’ heads in a collision.”

The new results also bring five-star results for the latest Ford Explorer, which makes its way over from the US, and the Mercedes-Benz GLB.

The new Vauxhall Corsa meanwhile achieved a four-star Euro NCAP rating, with an 84% result for AOP and 69% in Safety Assist, which assesses the performance of crash avoidance technologies.

It just misses out on a full five-star rating because points scored for its Autonomous Emergency Braking system were not counted due to the performance of its seat and head restraints in whiplash testing.

Thatcham’s Avery said: “Although this is not a bad result, Vauxhall will be disappointed to fall short of a five-star rating, which could have been achieved with greater focus on protecting passengers from whiplash injuries. Small cars are more likely to be involved in whiplash crashes, due to ‘run around’ town use and their lightweight structures. Both of these factors require high levels of whiplash protection in the front and rear.”

Michiel van Ratingen, secretary general of Euro NCAP, also commented on the results, saying: “Congratulations to Mazda for another almost-perfect score in adult occupant safety. There are still several cars to be rated in 2019 but it is unlikely we will see better for this part of the assessment. And congratulations to Ford and Mercedes-Benz for their five-star ratings, too. Euro NCAP is now gearing up for new tests in 2020 but we’re confident that manufacturers will continue to deliver the highest levels of safety to their customers.”