Citroën C6 Named Europe’s Safest Car in Euro NCAP Analysis
A new analysis applying Euro NCAP’s combined safety scoring system to 150 models puts the Citroën C6 at the top, ahead of the C4 and Volkswagen Golf.
The Citroën C6 has emerged as Europe’s safest car, according to a review of Euro NCAP crash test results applying the organisation’s new combined scoring system. The analysis, conducted by NEWCARNET.co.uk, compared 150 models previously tested under Euro NCAP’s separate adult, child and pedestrian protection categories.
The C6’s total score of 100 points put it ahead of both the Citroën C4 and the Volkswagen Golf, which took the next two spots in the ranking. At the bottom of the table, the Isuzu Rodeo pickup scored just 41 points, highlighting the gap between the best and worst performers when all aspects of safety are considered together.
Euro NCAP’s new combined rating system
From February 2009, Euro NCAP introduced a new star rating that reflects a car’s overall performance in adult occupant, child occupant and pedestrian protection. Previously, these areas were scored separately, with manufacturers often focusing on adult protection to secure high-profile five-star ratings. The new approach is intended to push manufacturers to address all types of crash safety, including the often-overlooked area of pedestrian protection.
Applying the combined points system retroactively to cars already tested, NEWCARNET.co.uk found that the Citroën C6’s balanced performance across all categories gave it the edge. The C4’s strong showing underlines Citroën’s focus on safety across its range, while the Volkswagen Golf continues to perform well in comparative safety assessments. For more on the Golf’s European market performance, see VW Golf Holds Top Spot in Europe for Fourth Straight Year.
What the new rankings mean for buyers and manufacturers
The revised scoring system is likely to influence both consumer choice and manufacturer priorities. Buyers are increasingly aware of comprehensive safety ratings, and the new Euro NCAP methodology gives a clearer picture of how a car protects not just occupants but also children and pedestrians. For manufacturers, the results highlight areas needing attention if they want to remain competitive on safety grounds. The poor showing of the Isuzu Rodeo, for example, points to the need for improvements in both occupant and pedestrian protection among pickups.
