Top safety scores for trio

ANCAP has confirmed the safety status of three models available on the market after putting them through their paces in a series of crash tests.

The Kia Carnival, Skoda Superb and Mercedes-Benz E-Class all emerged with five-star safety ratings.

ANCAP notes the Kia Carnival people mover has held a five-star rating for its diesel and petrol variants since testing four years ago. 

The recent addition of a hybrid version meant additional testing on the battery-assisted sibling, pictured, was required and it produced a comparable safety performance under 2021 test criteria.

Differences in the powertrain and mass of the hybrid required fresh frontal offset and oblique pole crash tests to be undertaken, explains ANCAP. 

These additional tests were needed to substantiate “worst-case” crash performance and examine whether any electrical safety concerns arise as a result of impact.

A five-star safety rating now applies to all diesel, petrol, and 1.6-litre petrol hybrid variants of the Kia Carnival.

Skoda’s Superb has been awarded a top rating across all its wagon and sedan variants based on testing of its “twin”, the VW Passat.

Unblemished scores were awarded for protection of key body regions in the frontal offset head-on crash test, the side impact test, and the oblique pole test. 

These full-mark scores contributed to a close-to-record high adult occupant protection score of 93 per cent.

Performance testing of the autonomous emergency braking system fitted to the Skoda Superb showed high levels of performance, mitigating or preventing crashes with another vehicle, cyclist, motorcyclist and pedestrian in the majority of test scenarios.

“The Skoda Superb delivers a robust safety package, reflecting a carefully considered approach to each aspect of its design and equipment,” says Carla Hoorweg, ANCAP chief executive officer.

“The Superb provides a confident choice for families or fleets seeking a sedan or wagon that prioritises safety.”

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class sedan – E200 and E300 – has also been raised for offering high levels of protection to occupants.

Standout areas of performance included driver protection in the T-bone side impact crash test and the oblique pole test. Full points were also scored for the driver in the full-width frontal test.

“As expected, the E-Class carries through its safety pedigree, offering five-star safety in a premium package,” adds Hoorweg.

Collision-avoidance-wise, the E-Class has systems that can detect a range of road users. 

ANCAP says while good overall scores were produced for the vehicle’s ability to prevent a crash with a pedestrian through auto-braking, the protection offered to the pelvis of a pedestrian, if struck, was notably low – scoring 0.74 out of 4.5 points.

To view full details of each vehicle’s safety reports, visit www.ancap.com.au.