SUV Safety Stars: Mazda, MG, BMW And Cupra Score Five

Front view of an MG MGS6 EV with severe frontal crash damage

photo mg mgs6 ev frontal offset b

Four SUVs have just sauntered through ANCAP testing and emerged with five stars blinking like showoff headlights. The Mazda CX-5, MG MGS6 EV, BMW X3 and Cupra Formentor were assessed under the 2023-2025 criteria and came away with solid proofs that you can have style, grunt and still not be a danger to other road users.

Mazda CX-5

The new-generation Mazda CX-5 proved to be the sensible choice for families who like their cars to behave. It scored a near-lecture-worthy 93 percent for Vulnerable Road User Protection, thanks to collision avoidance systems that actually avoid collisions and a front end designed to be less murderous to pedestrians. In short, it looks good, drives well and will do its best not to take someone else out.

Mazda CX-5 side-impact test with rig striking passenger side and airbags deployed.

MG MGS6 EV

MGs have been shedding the bargain-basement stigma, and the all-electric MGS6 EV is proof. It nailed a 92 percent in Adult Occupant Protection, with full marks for the driver in full-width and side impact tests. Its front-end design is less rude to other cars in a crash, so it behaves on impact as well as it does on the road. If you want electric without a quiz on safety, this is one to consider.

MG MGS6 EV rear three-quarter view after side-impact crash test showing door and rear quarter damage

BMW X3

The BMW X3, whether petrol, diesel or plug-in hybrid, showed it can both be clever and robust. The lane-keeping system earned full marks, and its knack for spotting and avoiding motorcycles was impressive. Its autonomous braking handled turning, head-on and rear-end emergency scenarios admirably. Crash protection was generally strong, with a couple of marginal chest readings that suggest it is excellent, but not infallible.

Black BMW X3 side after oblique pole crash test with Euro NCAP markings

Cupra Formentor

The refreshed Cupra Formentor also earns a fresh five-star bill of health. Availability windows differ by market, but the headline is simple: updated kit and safety upgrades keep the Formentor competitive. Between the sporty looks and the safety score, it is proof you do not have to sacrifice fun for peace of mind.

Cupra Formentor in oblique pole impact test with airbags deployed.

ANCAP says full details on all test results are available on its website. If you care about safety when choosing an SUV, these four make a strong case that you can have choice across price and drivetrain without cutting corners.

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