Euro NCAP’s latest round of testing has seen the Suzuki Jimny score three-stars for a “weak” safety performance as VW and Audi achieve top marks.

The Euro NCAP ratings saw VW Touareg and Audi A6 score a maximum five-star rating, while the Ford Tourneo Connect performed solidly, putting it at the top end of its category.

However, the Suzuki Jimny's impact testing and crash avoidance results have disappointed safety experts.

According to the Euro NCAP report, the Suzuki Jimny’s Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) system “showed weak performance in tests of its pedestrian avoidance in daylight and does not operate in low light.” The Jimny was eventually given a three-star rating.

Thatcham Research’s director of research Matthew Avery said: “The Suzuki Jimny’s performance in testing betrays its ostensibly rugged exterior.

"As a completely new vehicle, it should offer far more protection to drivers in the event of an accident.

“Its safety technology did not perform optimally either. The youthful audience the Suzuki Jimny has been designed for deserve better in terms of passive and active safety.”

The VW Touareg and Audi A6 showed strong performance in Euro NCAP’s new AEB cyclist tests, contributing to full five-star Euro NCAP ratings for both cars.

Avery said: “Its pleasing to see carmakers like VW and Audi rise to the challenge presented by the new AEB cyclist tests, which were brought into the Euro NCAP programme at the start of the year."

Although it did not achieve a full five-star Euro NCAP rating, the Ford Tourneo Connect did attain a solid four-stars.

Avery said: “Ford has given the Tourneo Connect more than a facelift, from a safety perspective at least. It’s pleasing to see a number of standard-fit driver aids, which all performed well in testing.

"This is especially important in larger vehicles as they present a greater potential threat to cyclists and pedestrians.”