When buying a new car, safety is often top of the list—but what do safety ratings really mean?
Car safety ratings are designed to help you understand how well a vehicle protects its occupants and pedestrians in the event of a crash, and how effectively it can avoid accidents altogether. These ratings are typically provided by independent organisations such as Euro NCAP (European New Car Assessment Programme).
To help drivers make safer choices, organisations like Euro NCAP (European New Car Assessment Programme) conduct a series of comprehensive crash tests and safety evaluations. Each vehicle is assessed across multiple categories, and an overall star rating—from 0 to 5 stars—is awarded based on its performance. These categories include:
Adult Occupant Protection – How well the car protects the driver and passengers in a frontal, side, and rear impact.
Child Occupant Protection – The safety of children using child seats in various crash scenarios.
Vulnerable Road User Protection – How the car’s design affects pedestrian and cyclist safety.
Safety Assist Technologies – Evaluation of features like autonomous emergency braking, lane-keeping assistance, and speed limit recognition.
A higher safety rating means better protection and more advanced safety features. It can also influence insurance costs and resale value. Whether you're a daily commuter, a parent, or a new driver, understanding these ratings helps you make a more informed and confident choice.
Now that you know what car safety ratings really mean, you’re better equipped to choose a vehicle that puts protection first. At Harwoods, we’re here to help you find a car that not only fits your lifestyle but also meets the highest safety standards.
Behind the scenes, we have a team of over 1,000 experienced and talented professionals who are there for you, whether it be to answer your questions, provide expert advice, or address any concerns you may have. Whatever you need, you can get in touch with us by sending an enquiry online or giving us a quick call.
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