The tests, undertaken under the new more stringent 2013 Euro NCAP protocols, see the Renault CAPTUR and Chevrolet Trax get overall five-star ratings. However, the Dacia Sandero achieved four stars and the Nissan Evalia or NV200 – which has replaced the TX4 as the London black cab-= scored just three stars.

The Chevrolet Trax achieved 94% in the Adult Occupant category, gaining maximum points in the side barrier test, providing occupants with good protection for all body regions. Good scores were also received for frontal impact while the Trax provided good protection against whiplash injury thanks to adjustable seat and head restraints in the eventuality of a rear impact. In the Child Occupant category, the Trax received favourable results in the side impact test and child restraint installation.

‘The bold and rugged Trax exterior design suggests a high level of safety at first glance. Safety is, among others, one of the purchase reasons for SUVs. We are really proud of the five-star NCAP test result, confirming what Trax customers expect from our new small SUV,’ said Susan Docherty, president of Chevrolet and Cadillac Europe.

For the Renault Captur, the latest result marks Renault’s 15^th five-star rating. Speaking about the model’s result, the carmaker said: ‘The objective was clearly for Renault Captur to provide the same high standard of passive safety as New Clio, since both cars share the same platform. Renault’s safety performance is founded on the results of road accident research and the real-world behaviour of motorists with a view to developing safety solutions based on an even more holistic, more efficient approach. To guarantee even more effective occupant protection, Renault Captur’s electronic architecture was designed to ensure that the latest-generation protective systems are triggered even sooner.’