Skoda, Mercedes-Benz, and Kia Carnival Hybrid all achieve five-star ANCAP ratings

With SUVs and utes continuing to lead Australia’s sales charts, ANCAP has confirmed five-star ratings for three important passenger car and people mover models – the Skoda Superb, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, and the new hybrid Kia Carnival.

Skoda Superb

The Skoda Superb, recently introduced to Australia, carries over strong crash test results from its Volkswagen Passat twin, securing a five-star ANCAP rating across both sedan and wagon body styles.

The Superb scored full marks in the frontal offset, side impact, and oblique pole crash tests, delivering an Adult Occupant Protection score of 93%.

Its autonomous emergency braking (AEB) system also impressed, avoiding or mitigating collisions with other vehicles, cyclists, motorcyclists, and pedestrians in the majority of test scenarios.

“The Skoda Superb delivers a robust safety package, reflecting a carefully considered approach to each aspect of its design and equipment,” said ANCAP CEO Carla Hoorweg.

Mercedes-Benz E-Class

Available in Australia since January 2024, the new Mercedes-Benz E-Class sedan (E200 and E300) secured top results in several crash test categories, including the side impact and oblique pole tests, as well as full-width frontal protection for the driver.

Collision avoidance technology in the E-Class was rated highly overall, though weak protection of the pedestrian pelvis reduced its score in that sub-category.

“As expected, the E-Class carries through its safety pedigree, offering five-star safety in a premium package,” said Hoorweg.

Kia Carnival Hybrid

The Kia Carnival has long been a five-star performer in petrol and diesel form, with testing completed in 2021. Following new tests, ANCAP has extended the five-star rating to the Carnival Hybrid, which joins the petrol and diesel models.

The updated tests included frontal offset and oblique pole crashes to confirm comparable results for the hybrid drivetrain and to ensure no electrical safety concerns were present.

“This five-star ANCAP safety rating for the Kia Carnival HEV is a positive result for consumers and fleet buyers looking to balance safety and environmental criteria,” said Hoorweg.

Full ANCAP test details are available at www.ancap.com.au.