Two major players in the large car segment: the newly arrived Skoda Superb and the premium Mercedes-Benz E-Class, have both secured five-star ANCAP safety ratings.
Skoda Superb: Safety Meets Practicality
Having recently launched in New Zealand (March 2025) and Australia (June 2025), the Skoda Superb brings with it an impressive five-star ANCAP safety rating, based on testing of its closely related twin, the Volkswagen Passat.
It recorded standout results across crash tests, with unblemished scores in the frontal offset, side impact, and oblique pole tests. These results contributed to an Adult Occupant Protection score of 93%, one of the highest in its class.
Its autonomous emergency braking (AEB) system also delivered strong performance, avoiding or mitigating collisions with vehicles, cyclists, motorcyclists, and pedestrians in most test scenarios.
“The Skoda Superb delivers a robust safety package, reflecting a carefully considered approach to each aspect of its design and equipment,” said ANCAP Chief Executive Officer, Carla Hoorweg.
“The Superb provides a confident choice for families or fleets seeking a sedan or wagon that prioritises safety.”
All variants of the Superb come standard with dual frontal, side chest-protecting, side head-protecting, and driver knee airbags, as well as a centre airbag. Safety technologies include AEB across multiple scenarios, lane support systems, and advanced speed assistance.
Mercedes-Benz E-Class: Premium Sedan, Premium Safety
Launched locally in January 2024, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class (E200 and E300 variants) also achieved a five-star ANCAP safety rating, reflecting the marque’s reputation for occupant protection and advanced driver assistance.
The E-Class performed strongly in crash protection testing, scoring full points for the driver in both the full-width frontal test and side impact assessments, including the demanding oblique pole test.
Collision-avoidance systems on the E-Class also performed well across a range of scenarios. However, ANCAP noted a shortfall in pedestrian pelvis protection, with the model scoring just 0.74 out of a possible 4.50 points in this area.
“As expected, the E-Class carries through its safety pedigree, offering five-star safety in a premium package,” said Ms Hoorweg.
Standard safety features include dual frontal, side chest-protecting, side head-protecting, and knee airbags for both driver and passenger, along with a centre airbag. Comprehensive AEB systems, lane support functions, and advanced speed assistance are also fitted across the range.
Both the Skoda Superb and Mercedes-Benz E-Class will carry their five-star ratings through to December 2030, giving consumers confidence in their long-term safety performance.
The full safety report for these vehicles can be found below:
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