The new Suzuki Vitara compact SUV has received the maximum 5-star rating in independent crash testing from Euro NCAP.

Launched earlier this month, the Vitara has been awarded high scores in all four areas of assessment; adult occupant, child occupant, pedestrian, and safety assist, to attain the five star rating.

The new Vitara’s passive and active safety systems are designed to anticipate and react to potentially dangerous situations with an excellent level of protection.

Standard safety equipment includes seven airbags which includes a driver’s knee airbag as well as seat belt pre-tensioners and force limiters. Euro NCAP’s tests on the front seats and head restraints showed good protection against whiplash injury in the event of a rear end collision, and a geometric assessment of the rear seats also  indicated good protection.

Suzuki paid particular attention to child safety in accordance with latest European legislation and pedestrian protection received the highest score amongst its competitors thanks to bonnet shape and new structures for the cowl top and wipers. The bumpers also provide good impact absorption to lessen the degree of harm if the car comes into contact with a pedestrian.