Words: Andrew Sluys
Published 6 May 2026
Four new vehicles have received five-star safety ratings in the latest round of ANCAP assessments.
BYD’s Seal 06 posted an impressive 92 percent Adult Occupant Protection score, the highest of the group. Crash test results showed good protection across nearly all critical body regions for both driver and passengers.
The MG4 EV Urban also impressed during testing. Its five-star result was built on solid across-the-board scores, with strong frontal and side impact protection and capable autonomous emergency braking performance in pedestrian and cyclist scenarios. All variants share the rating.
Tesla’s extended Model Y L has been awarded five stars on the back of strong Safety Assist and Adult Occupant Protection scores. The rating was derived from testing of the standard five-seat Model Y, with supplementary assessments confirming applicability to the longer-wheelbase model. However, ANCAP flagged child restraint installation as a concern, with many restraints unable to be correctly fitted in second-row positions due to top tether routing limitations. Third-row ISOFix compatibility with rearward and forward-facing convertible seats were also identified as problematic.
The Skoda Octavia, meanwhile, retains its five-star rating following reassessment of vehicles produced from July 2025 onward.
ANCAP chief executive Carla Hoorweg welcomed the results: “Buyers now have more choice than ever before. ANCAP star ratings provide independent, rigorous assessments of how well vehicles prevent crashes and protect occupants and other road users in serious crashes – meaning consumers can make an informed choice when it comes to safety. Safety information should always be non-negotiable in any vehicle purchase.”
