More five star crash test results good news for NZ

For immediate release
24 March 2004

More five star crash test results good news for New Zealand drivers

New Zealand car buyers have more choice than ever when it comes to vehicles offering the highest level of occupant protection.

Crash test results released today by the Land Transport Safety Authority (LTSA) show eight more models have scored five out of five stars in independent safety tests.

New models of the Subaru Legacy and Outback scored five star results in tests performed in Japan under the supervision of ANCAP - the Australian New Car Assessment Program. The LTSA is an active member of ANCAP.

The Legacy and Outback also scored three out of four stars in pedestrian impact tests - the first time a vehicle scoring five stars in occupant protection ratings has recorded a three star pedestrian impact rating.

ANCAP has also reviewed and released the results of recent tests carried out by EuroNCAP, the European equivalent of ANCAP. In European tests five star occupant protection ratings were recorded by the Volvo XC90, the Saab 9-3 and 9-5, the Mercedes Benz C and E class models and the BMW X5.

Two tests are performed on each model to rate occupant protection; an offset frontal test where the car is driven into a crushable barrier at 64km/h, and a side impact test which involves running a 950kg trolley into the driver’s side of the vehicle at 50km/h. An optional pole impact test is also available for vehicles fitted with head-protecting side airbags.

Research shows a strong correlation between the tests and injuries suffered by vehicle occupants in serious on-road crashes.

Detailed crash test results for over 100 vehicle models are now available on the LTSA website, www.ltsa.govt.nz. Brochures with test results can be ordered at no charge by ringing the LTSA Helpdesk on 0800 699 000.

Crash Test Ratings - March 2004

Note: There may be variations between models used in these tests and the models available here in New Zealand. New Zealand specifications may vary and therefore vehicles sold in New Zealand might provide different levels of protection to those described in these tests.

ANCAP Tests - Medium Cars

Vehicle Model Occupant protection rating
Subaru Legacy +Outback* - 2004 on
(Dual front, side and head airbags) *****
Subaru Legacy +Outback* - 2004 on
(Dual front airbags) *****

European Tests - Large Cars

Vehicle Model Occupant protection rating
Saab 9-5 LHD - 2001 on
(Dual front, side and head airbags) *****
Mercedes E Class LHD - 2003 on
(Dual front, side and head airbags) *****

European Tests - Medium Cars

Vehicle Model Occupant protection rating
Saab 9-3 LHD - 2002 on
(Dual front, side and head airbags) *****
Mercedes C Class LHD - 2003 on
(Dual front, side and head airbags) *****

European Tests - Large 4WDs

Vehicle Model Occupant protection rating
Volvo XC90# LHD
(Dual front, side and head airbags) *****
Range Rover LHD - 2002 on
(Dual front, side and head airbags) ****

European Tests - Medium 4WDs

Vehicle Model Occupant protection rating
BMW X5 LHD - 6/2003 on
(Dual front, side and head airbags) *****
Mercedes M Class LHD - 2002 on
(Dual front, side and head airbags) ****

European Tests - Compact 4WDs

Vehicle Model Occupant protection rating
Hyundai Sante Fe - 2002 on
(Dual front airbags) ****
Mazda Tribute
(Dual front airbags) ****
Suzuki Grand Vitara
(Dual front airbags) ***
Land Rover Freelander - 2002 on
(Dual front airbags) ***

*Tests conducted in Japan on behalf of ANCAP
LHD - Left Hand Drive variant
# Diesel engine variant

ENDS

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