Euro NCAP has named the Mercedes-Benz CLA the Best Performer of 2025, scoring the most points of any car tested by the safety organisation.
The CLA was also awarded Best Small Family Car by Euro NCAP, due to its active bonnet and refined autonomous emergency braking (AEB) systems.
Judges awarded the CLA a near-perfect score in the Adult Occupant category, as well as a class-leading score in the Vulnerable Road User safety category.
Jörg Burzer, chief technology officer at Mercedes-Benz, said: “We have redesigned the CLA from the ground up.
“This also includes development of the safety features that are part of Mercedes’ DNA.
“The confirmation by an independent organisation such as Euro NCAP that the CLA is the safest vehicle which was tested in 2025, once again highlights the long-standing expertise and commitment.”
The Mini Cooper E was named Best City & Supermini, due to high scores in structural crash testing.
Euro NCAP named the Tesla Model 3 the Best Large Family Car and the Tesla Model Y the Best Small SUV, with both cars scoring highly in Child Occupant protection and Safety Assist categories.
Smart’s #5 was ranked Best Large SUV and the Polestar 3 won Best Executive Car.
Gerry Yang, chief technical officer at Polestar, said: “Safety is a central part of our DNA thanks to our close collaboration with Volvo Cars.
“Polestar 3 incorporates among the latest advanced structural innovations and advanced driver assistance systems, which all played a part in delivering the exceptional test results we have seen here.”
Judges commended the Polestar’s structural integrity, high Child Occupant protection rating and driver assistance systems.
Aled Williams, programme director at Euro NCAP, said: “2025 has been a year where safety technology has truly caught up with the ambition of Euro NCAP’s testing protocols.
“We are seeing electric vehicles (EVs) not just matching but often exceeding the safety performance of traditional cars.
“This should reassure those consumers who are considering switching from a fuel-burning car to an EV.
“Electric cars are delivering in other areas, too. The Mercedes-Benz CLA, Tesla Model 3, and Model Y show that safety can be integrated into appealing, aerodynamic designs, while the MINI Cooper E brings a touch of fun and personality to the road.
“As we look toward 2026, we encourage all manufacturers to maintain this momentum toward our goal of Vision Zero.”
