Three new electric vehicles have earned top safety scores in the latest ANCAP crash tests. The Tesla Model 3, Kia EV3, and MGS5 EV have all received five-star ratings for their strong protection in crashes and advanced safety features.
Tesla Model 3 Achieves Top Marks in Safety Tests
The updated Tesla Model 3, now on sale from September 2023, has impressed with its crash protection. It scored 90 per cent for Adult Occupant Protection and a record-breaking 95 per cent for Child Occupant Protection. This is the best result ANCAP has seen under its 2023–2025 testing rules.
It also scored 89 per cent for Vulnerable Road User Protection, making it one of the safest choices for pedestrians and cyclists.
“The upgraded Tesla Model 3 has again delivered all-round safety performance, with standout results for child occupant and vulnerable road user protection, making it a reassuring choice for families,” said ANCAP CEO Carla Hoorweg.
The Model 3 includes new safety upgrades like a centre airbag between the front seats and an active bonnet that lifts during a collision with a pedestrian, helping reduce injuries. It also features a system that alerts drivers if a child is left in the car and can turn on the air conditioning or open windows.
Kia EV3 Rated Five Stars for Safety
Kia’s all-electric EV3 has also joined the five-star safety club, following the EV5 and EV9 models.
This small SUV scored 83 per cent for Adult Occupant Protection and 86 per cent for Child Occupant Protection. The EV3 performed especially well in side impact tests, showing good protection for both adults and children.
It also scored 78 per cent for Vulnerable Road User Protection and 81 per cent for Safety Assist. The EV3’s advanced safety tech includes automatic emergency braking (AEB), lane keep assist, and a driver monitoring system that checks for distraction and fatigue.
“Following in the footsteps of the larger EV9 and EV5 models, the Kia EV3 has demonstrated the brand’s continued prioritisation of safety for its Australian and New Zealand customers,” said Ms Hoorweg.
MGS5 EV Scores High in Crash Safety and Driver Support
The MGS5 EV, arriving in Australia from May 2025 and New Zealand in July 2025, has also achieved a five-star safety rating.
The car scored 90 per cent for Adult Occupant Protection and 86% for Child Occupant Protection. In crash tests, it provided good protection in side impacts and most areas during frontal impacts. The only weaker result was Adequate protection for the chest and upper legs in some tests.
Its Vulnerable Road User Protection score was 82 per cent, showing good results in helping prevent accidents with pedestrians and cyclists. Safety Assist systems, including AEB, lane support, driver fatigue monitoring, and traffic sign recognition, helped the MGS5 EV earn a 79 per cent score.
“Following a series of mixed safety outcomes for MG in recent times, the addition of this new five-star model is encouraging,” said Ms Hoorweg.
“It reinforces MG’s ability to meet the highest safety standards, and we look forward to seeing this level of commitment carry through to future new model releases.”
The full safety reports for these vehicles can be found in the links below:
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