VOLKSWAGEN'S new electric family car, the ID3, has scored top marks in the latest round of crash testing conducted by Euro Ncap.
Euro Ncap said the ID3 scored well in all categories thanks to its "robust structural integrity and the latest in restraint technology" combined with high-tech sensors.
The EV did particularly well in occupant protection at 87 per cent, scoring 89 per cent for children specifically.
This was partly aided by a new centre airbag that deploys between the seats to avoid potential head contact between two passengers during a side impact.
Elsewhere, it scored well because of the safety technology that's included, with automatic emergency braking, lane assist and front assist all fitted as standard.
Michiel van Ratingen from Euro Ncap said the ID3 "represents the direction of travel for the car industry in recent years".
"The climate crisis means that we all must adapt to a cleaner future and electric cars will become the norm in the years to come," he said.
"Euro Ncap will continue to ensure that saving the planet does not come at the cost of safety and I am glad to see that the ID3 - the latest generation of 'the people's car' - does not compromise in this regard."
The Volkswagen ID.3 is the second car to be tested this year, following the Toyota Yaris, which also scored the full five stars.
The organisation has also given the upcoming plug-in hybrid version of the Toyota RAV4 a five-star safety rating.
Euro Ncap has also launched 'assisted driving' grades, with the Audi Q8, BMW 3 Series and Ford Kuga all scoring four-out-of-four.
