NCAP
Euro NCAP is the independent body that crash-tests new cars sold in Europe and awards the familiar 0–5 star ratings. The stars cover adult occupant, child occupant, pedestrian protection and safety-assist tech — and the tests get tougher every couple of years, so a 5-star car from 2018 isn’t equal to a 5-star car from 2026. Always compare the test year, and treat driver-assistance scores as a bonus, not a substitute for careful driving.
Example
Family buyers should shortlist 5-star cars tested in the last few years, then check the child-occupant percentage score.