Five-star Ford Ranger

The new generation Ford Ranger has become the first pick-up to be awarded a maximum five stars for safety by Euro NCAP.

Scores for the test model - a right-hand drive four-door Ranger Double Cab - were consistently high across all categories, with 96% achieved for adult occupants, 86% for child occupants and 71% for safety assist features.

But the most impressive accomplishment was 81% for pedestrian impact, which is significant because it disproves the idea that pick-ups can’t do well in that particular trial.

Ford Ranger Double Cab (2011) Euro NCAP Frontal ImpactFord Ranger Double Cab (2011) Euro NCAP ESC Test

Ford Ranger Double Cab (2011) Euro NCAP Pole ImpactFord Ranger Double Cab (2011) Euro NCAP Side Impact

By contrast the Volkswagen Amarok, the only other pick-up so far assessed under the revised rating scheme, only managed a mediocre four stars when it was tested last year. Its marks were 86% for adult occupants, 64% for child occupants, 57% for safety assist and just 47% for pedestrian protection, all of which have since been easily outclassed by the Ford.

Other models that earned five stars in the latest evaluation round were the Audi Q3, BMW 1 Series, Chevrolet Captiva, Fiat Freemont, Hyundai Veloster, Mercedes-Benz M-Class, Opel / Vauxhall Astra, Opel / Vauxhall Zafira Tourer, Lancia / Chrysler Thema and Toyota Yaris.

The Freemont, M-Class and Thema all received particular praise for having active bonnets that rise up when sensors detect a pedestrian impact.

Related posts:
2012 Toyota Yaris first look
Chevy Captiva for the US
Chryslers become Lancias
Fiat Freemont unveiled
2011 Ford Ranger revealed

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