If you are going to step out into traffic make sure you do so in front of the latest BMW 3 Series. Not that we advocate such behaviour, but the BMW received the highest score (78%) for pedestrian protection in the latest Euro NCAP results.

The Hyundai i30, Mazda CX-5 and Peugeot 208 were also assessed in the latest round of tests. The BMW was placed top for adult occupant protection and joint top for safety systems with 95% and 86% respectively. Children are better protected in the Hyundai and Mazda, which were rated at 90% and 87% compared to the BMW's 84% score. All the cars received a five-star rating overall, although the Peugeot's 61% score for pedestrian safety was close to the 60% threshold for a top star rating. Euro NCAP commended manufacturers for rising to the challenge of ever tougher tests.

Both the Mazda and BMW scored points for offering Autonomous Emergency Brake systems (AEB). Euro NCAP's Secretary General rated such systems for the potential to reduce accident severity or eliminate some collisions. Future tests will assess the effectiveness of AEB where fitted.

On 13th June the Euro NCAP programme will celebrate its 15th anniversary. On that date the next phase of testing will be revealed, keeping pace with the latest vehicle safety developments.

In addition to the test results Audi received its second Euro NCAP Advanced award for 'Pre Sense front plus' technology. This uses radar to monitor the road ahead to help avoid or mitigate collisions with the car in front.

John Lambert - 29 May 2012