For the first time a small family car, the Renault Mégane II, has achieved five stars in Europe's leading independent crash tests.
Euro NCAP said yesterday that three other cars, the Saab 9-3, the Renault Vel Satis and the Mercedes E-Class also achieved five stars.
Crashworthiness results for executive cars, family cars, small family cars, super-minis, off-roaders and MPVs were announced at a press conference in Rome co-hosted by Euro NCAP, the FIA Foundation and the Automobile Club d'Italia.
All three "five star" manufacturers have met the requirements of Euro NCAP's new seatbelt reminder protocol. Euro NCAP's star rating is based on occupants being "belted", thus seatbelt reminder systems are vitally important.
All the safety gains achieved by Euro NCAP over recent years would be completely wasted if car occupants did not buckle up before every journey, AA Ireland has pointed out.
It has been a partner in Euro NCAP since its inception.
Mr Pat Kiely, managing director of AA Ireland, said: "We are delighted with its ongoing work. Whatever type of car you prefer to drive, whatever price you can afford, it's clear that there is now a wider choice of models than ever before offering stronger levels of protection."