Safety assist
Euro NCAP recognises that it is always preferable to prevent accidents in the first place however, and awards points for technology which helps drivers avoid collisions.
Both the new X-Trail and the Ariya also scored exceptionally highly here with a 95% and 93% rating respectively, thanks to Nissan Intelligent Mobility technologies. A comprehensive suite of these intelligent technologies is offered, including Autonomous Emergency Brake (AEB) which identifies when the car in front is braking and will start to brake the vehicle.
Both models also feature Intelligent Blind Spot Intervention which senses when another vehicle has not been seen by the driver in a neighbouring lane and will actively steer the vehicle back into lane and away from the danger.
That the new X-Trail and the Ariya achieved identical scores in the Safety Assist category reflects Nissan's strategy of making state-of-the-art safety technology as widely available as possible across its models. And, the similarities in the other ratings between the two models tested further emphasise that point.
The strong performances of the new X-Trail and the Ariya echo the similar ratings that the Qashqai achieved when it was tested last year. The Qashqai and X-Trail are both built on the Alliance CMF-C architecture.
Following the introduction of the Juke Hybrid to the model's range and also the addition of the e-POWER powertrain on Qashqai, Euro NCAP has confirmed that the rating for those vehicles is unaffected and that they offer the same level of driver support and protection as the traditionally powered versions.
David Moss, Senior Vice President, Regional Research & Development, AMIEO, said: “The outstanding performances of both the new X-Trail and the Ariya, which are very different vehicles, built on different platforms, demonstrates the cross-car strategy Nissan has for its models. The development of all our vehicles starts with outstanding body engineering, through the use of advanced materials and manufacturing techniques to ensure excellent structural integrity. This is complemented by an advanced suite of technologies that act as a second pair of eyes, identifying potential dangers and helping the driver to avoid an accident.”
He added: "This comprehensive testing and rating programme from Euro NCAP really allows consumers to understand our dedication to safety and how seriously we take our customers' welfare."
Euro NCAP has been independently testing cars since 1997, measuring most of the new models which go on sale against its constantly-evolving criteria. In addition to testing the actual physical strength of the cars in various simulated collisions, the organisation also tests and scores accident prevention technology.