ANCAP: Jeep Avenger stung with three-star safety in Oz

Jeep’s first EV has been hit with a sub-par three-star ANCAP safety rating following ‘mixed results’ in the hands of Euro NCAP testers.

The European rating has been carried over to Australia and stems primarily from the Avenger’s poor vulnerable road user protection (59) and safety assists (54), not to mention the average adult (79) and child (71) occupant protection scores.

A particular low point of the scorecard was the ‘marginal’ performance of the autonomous emergency braking system in detecting pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists, as well as T-bone and head-on functionality.

“As an all-new model, it’s disheartening to see the Jeep Avenger fall short on safety,” ANCAP CEO Carla Hoorweg said.

“With many electric SUVs entering the market and receiving five-star ANCAP ratings, we know manufacturers can prioritise top-tier safety.

“We urge Jeep to do so, ensuring buyers don’t have to compromise on safety.”

Elsewhere, the all-new MG ZS Hybrid has been awarded a four-star rating; one full star more than the MG3 Hybrid hatch on it’s based on.

The new compact SUV scored 75 per cent for its adult occupant protection, 84 per cent for child occupant protection, 73 for vulnerable road user protection and 79 for its safety assists.

“The MG ZS’s four-star rating underscores the need for strong and balanced safety performance across all crash protection and prevention areas,” Hoorweg said.

“While the vehicle demonstrated strong performance in certain crash tests, improvements in Adult Occupant Protection – such as incorporating features like a centre airbag and enhancing rear seatbelt performance – would help elevate its safety outcomes to better meet the expectations of today’s market.”

Join the conversation at our Facebook page
Or email us at editor@carsales.com.au