A shake up of the car safety rating system is due after two-thirds of the latest best-selling cars passed with flying colours.
The Euro NCAP tests go over and above mandatory legal tests. The latest results saw a bumper crop of cars take the coveted 5-star adult protection rating, with eight of the 12 tested driving off with top marks.
New models that aced the crash test include the Alfa Romeo Mito, Ford Fiesta, Peugeot 308CC, Renault Megane, Honda Accord, Volkswagen Golf, Volvo XC60 and Vauxhall/Opel Insignia - recently voted European Car of the Year for 2009.
However, none of the cars scored top marks in either the child or pedestrian protection stakes.
The worst performing car was the Ford Ranger - the sole pick-up tested - which received two stars only.
Michiel van Ratingen, Euro NCAP secretary-general, warned the bar would be raised next year.
"It is clear that Euro NCAP?s new rating scheme in 2009 will offer a more discriminating view of the overall safety performance of today?s bestselling vehicles and give customers the opportunity to prioritise and maximise the safety options on their vehicles," he said.
