Euro NCAP has announced its Best in Class cars for 2024, recognising the safest vehicles tested during the year.
Topping the list is the Mercedes-Benz E-Class, which achieved the highest overall score among all vehicles evaluated. This executive sedan excelled across Euro NCAP’s four safety categories: Adult Occupant Protection, Child Occupant Protection, Vulnerable Road User Protection, and Safety Assist Technologies.
Other winners in specific categories included the Zeekr X, which led the Small SUV class and also won the award for safest Pure Electric car of the year.
Škoda Superb and Volkswagen Passat also won in the Large Family Car class, and the Mazda CX-80 in the Large SUV category.
Notably, the Zeekr X outperformed numerous competitors from European manufacturers, showcasing the rise of Chinese automakers in safety innovation.
The Maxus eTERRON 9, the first electric pick-up truck tested by Euro NCAP, also delivered strong safety results, reflecting the growing diversity of vehicle types prioritising advanced safety features.
Despite economic challenges in 2024, Euro NCAP praised manufacturers for their continued focus on integrating cutting-edge safety systems. Secretary General Dr Michiel van Ratingen said the industry is dedicated to consumer safety amidst tough market conditions.
With 44 cars tested in 2024, Small SUVs dominated the evaluations, accounting for nearly half of all assessments. However, no vehicles qualified for the Best in Class award in the Small Family Car segment due to safety shortcomings.
