Benz, Lexus and Subaru get five stars in latest ANCAP testing

The Mercedes-Benz B-Class, Lexus’ IS250 and the new Subaru Tribeca SUV all scored maximum five-star rating for occupant protection in the latest round of ANCAP (Australasian New Car Assessment Program) crash test.

The November round of tests registered top scores for the trio of vehicles, all of which feature front, side and head (curtain) airbags.

Seven other vehicles were tested in the most recent program of crash tests. A full list of the vehicles and their results is reproduced below.

The ANCAP occupant star rating considers the injury measures to the occupant's head, neck, abdomen, pelvis, upper and lower legs and the deformation of the vehicles structure. The star rating is assigned on the basis of crash test results from an offset and side impact crash and include any additional points awarded where advanced seatbelt reminders are fitted or a pole test is conducted.

All 10 vehicles were also tested for pedestrian safety. Each of the five-star cars noted above registered a two-star ANCAP pedestrian score.

The ANCAP program is supported by Australian and New Zealand automobile clubs, the State government road and transport authorities of NSW, Victoria, South Australia, Queensland, Tasmania and Western Australia, the New Zealand Government and the FIA Foundation.

Mercedes B-Class (2006- )                               5 stars                         2 stars
Front, side and head airbags

Subaru Tribeca (2006- )                                    5 stars                         No rating
Front, side and head airbags

Mazda3 (2006- )                                               4 stars                         2 stars
Front, side and head airbags

Land Rover Discovery (2006- )                         4 stars                          1 star
Front, side and head airbags

Nissan Maxima (2006- )                                   4 stars                           2 stars
Front, side and head airbags

Kia Carnival (2006- )                                      4 stars                            1 star
Front, side and head airbags

Honda Odyssey (2006- )                                4 stars                             2 stars
Front, side and head airbags

Holden Viva (2005- )                                     4 stars                              2 stars
Front, side and head airbags

Mitsubishi Colt (2006- )                                 3 stars                             1 star
Dual front airbags