Hyundai New Generation Santa Fe named the safest in its class of 2012

The Hyundai New Generation Santa Fe has been named as the safest car in its class assessed by Euro NCAP during 2012. Its scores across all test categories were best-in-class, making it one of the safest vehicles ever tested by the independent vehicle assessment organisation
and the best in the 'Large Off-Road 4x4' segment - ahead of the Mercedes-Benz M-class and Range Rover.

Of the 36 vehicles tested during 2012, the eight top-performers in their segments have been recommended by Euro NCAP for their leading levels of safety across a range of assessments. In the 'adult occupant' category, New Generation Santa Fe scored 96 per cent with maximum points in the side barrier test. In the 'child occupant' category, the D-segment SUV received a score of 89 per cent, and features such as electronic stability control contributed to the car's score of 86 per cent in the 'safety assist' category.

In a further demonstration of Hyundai's commitment to safety, the New Generation Santa Fe is the brand's first car to be equipped with an active bonnet. This activates if a pedestrian is hit, reducing impact forces and reducing the risk of serious injury. The result of this is a 'pedestrian safety' score of 71 per cent, making the New Generation Santa Fe stand out among its rivals in this category with the nearest high score being 63 per cent. 

"Having the New Generation Santa Fe recommended by Euro NCAP as the safest car in its class demonstrates Hyundai's commitment to the safety of its customers and other road users. The car's inherent safety combined with low CO2, high levels of equipment and emotional design make the New Generation Santa Fe the complete package for European buyers," said Allan Rushforth, Senior Vice-President and COO of Hyundai Motor Europe.

The New Generation Santa Fe is the latest of a long line of Hyundai models to achieve the maximum five-star score in Euro NCAP's rigorous assessment program, following the top ratings achieved by the New i20, ix20, ix35, i40, Veloster and the New Generation i30.

Posted in: 4x4,Adult Occupant,Allan Rushforth,Award,Child Occupant,Crash Test,Euro NCAP,Hyundai,Hyundai Motor Europe,Hyundai Santa Fe,International,Pedestrian Safety,SUV