The tests saw the Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class gain Euro NCAP’s maximum award of five stars. The model scored 96% for adult occupant protection, 88% for child occupant, 67% for pedestrian safety and 70% for safety assist, with Euro NCAP noting that the GLA-Class has a standard-fit autonomous emergency braking system to provide additional protection at city speeds.

However, the new Renault Twingo received four stars, with 78% for adult occupant protection, 81% for child occupant, 68% for pedestrian and 56% for safety assist. Euro NCAP noted that protection against whiplash injuries in a rear-end collision was rated as good for the front seats and poor for the rear.

Meanwhile Nissan's new electric e-NV200 Evalia only achieved three stars, with 75% for adult occupant protection, 80% for child occupant, 60% for pedestrian and 38% for safety assist.

The latest test results also saw the Citroën Berlingo gain three stars, with figures of 56% for adult occupant, 74% for child occupant, 63% for pedestrian safety and 48% for safety assist. As it has exactly the same platform, interior fittings and levels of safety equipment as the new Peugeot Partner, the latter also gains the three-star rating by default.

Euro NCAP added that PSA Peugeot Citroën has demonstrated that the Peugeot 108 and the Citroën C1 are identical to the Toyota Aygo in every way likely to influence safety so therefore share the Aygo’s four-star safety rating.