- The Zeekr X had the highest Euro NCAP score among EVs and small SUVs tested in 2024.
- The Mercedes-Benz E-Class executive sedan was the best performer overall for the past year.
- Other best-in-class winners include the Mazda CX-80, and the VW Passat/Skoda Superb twins.
Chinese automakers have been quietly leveling up for years, and nowhere is this more evident than in the world of electric vehicles. Over the past decade, they’ve made serious strides in build quality, design, performance, and safety, culminating in their showing at the Euro NCAP’s “Best in Class” awards for 2024.
Small SUVs dominate Europe’s car market, so it’s no surprise that the category accounted for 20 of the 44 cars tested by Euro NCAP in 2024. Among them, Geely’s Zeekr X not only outclassed competitors from legacy European brands but also snagged the title of the safest EV of the year.
More: See What Happens When Two Cars Hit A Chinese EV At 60KM/H In Triple Crash Test
For context, the Zeekr X’s safety performance put it ahead of rivals like the Deepal S07, the Porsche Macan EV, the Cupra Tavascan, the MG HS, the Toyota C-HR, the Volvo EX30, and the Xpeng G6.
Despite the strong showing from Chinese EVs, the top performer for 2024 was none other than the Mercedes-Benz E-Class, a model that continues to live up to its storied reputation. The latest version of this German executive sedan secured the highest overall score of the year, excelling across Euro NCAP’s four safety categories to claim the crown.
Over in the Large SUV category, the Mazda CX-80 narrowly edged out the Audi Q6 e-tron to take the top spot in the class. Meanwhile, in the Large Family Car segment, the Volkswagen Passat and Skoda Superb ended up sharing the spotlight thanks to identical safety scores. Nothing like a bit of sibling rivalry when you’re built on the same platform.
More: Euro NCAP Targets Trucks With New Tests As 3% Of Vehicles Involved In 15% Of Fatal Crashes
If you’re wondering why certain vehicle categories weren’t featured in Euro NCAP’s “Best in Class” rankings, the answer lies in the numbers, or lack thereof. In some cases, not enough cars in a segment were tested. In others, contenders were held back by a critical weak point: the dreaded red body-part score. As Euro NCAP explained, “In case of a red critical body region, the vehicle is limited to a maximum of 4 stars.” That mean even one significant safety flaw can tank a car’s rating, no matter how well it performs elsewhere.
That said, one honorable mention goes to China’s Maxus eTerron 9, which made history as the first fully electric pickup tested by Euro NCAP. It didn’t walk away with a “Best in Class” title, but its safety performance earned a nod from the organization.
Below, you’ll find videos and photos showcasing the safety tests for the “Best in Class” vehicles of 2024. Looking ahead, Euro NCAP’s safety assessment protocols are set to undergo changes in 2026, but its signature five-star rating scale will remain.
Mercedes E-Class – Best Performer
Zeekr X – Safest Small SUV
Mazda CX-80 – Safest Large SUV
VW Passat and Skoda Superb – Safest Large Family Cars
