SIX new models have been rated five star performers in the latest round of Euro NCAP crash tests.

The Volkswagen Polo, the Taigo crossover and the all-electric ID.5, the Renault Megane E-Tech and the new Lexus NX achieved top marks while the new BMW 2 Series Coupe gained a four star rating.

Also given a five star rating was the Ford Tourneo Connect van-derived people mover.

The latest Polo has more technology including new centre airbags and a more capable crash avoidance system which gained it a five-star rating while the Lexus NX, available as normal and plug-in hybrid, shares the same platform as the RAV4 from its parent company Toyota.

While the car performed well in tests and scored enough points to qualify for five stars, Lexus' engineers did not provide all the technical information normally shared with Euro NCAP.

Leading Renault's electric car offensive, the Megane E-Tech is an all-new, all-electric compact hatchback launched to regain lost ground in Europe's popular family car segment.

With improved body and restraint systems, and strong performance from advanced driver assistance systems such as AEB, Euor NCAP said the Megane E-Tech demonstrates that Renault understands how to engineer cars that are not only attractive but are clean and safe at the same time.

Tests on the BMW 2 Series Coupe showed that the car offers good crash protection and satisfactory protection to vulnerable road users.

The autonomous emergency braking system performed adequately in more straightforward testing scenarios, involving other cars and pedestrians, but was limited in the more challenging scenarios such as cyclist crossing and turning across path.

July 2022 sees the introduction of new vehicle safety legislation, mandating the fitment of important safety systems such as autonomous braking and speed assistance on new vehicle types.