The second-generation Opel Mokka, which makes the switch from GM’s Gamma II platform to Stellantis’s Common Modular Platform, has garnered a respectable four-star rating from the Euro NCAP after a series of crash tests. This is the same platform used for the Citroen C4 and ë-C4 which were tested last month.
The Opel Mokka missed out on the fifth star due to it having no active emergency braking for cyclists or a centre airbag. NCAP notes that the Opel Mokka’s passenger compartment remained stable in the frontal offset test. Protection of the driver dummy’s chest was rated as marginal, based on measurements of compression during the test. Protection of the driver’s knees and femurs, and right tibia, were also rated as marginal.
Analysis of the deformable impact barrier after the test, and of decelerations of the trolley during the test, indicated that the Opel Mokka would be a benign crash partner in collisions with other vehicles. Tests on the front seats and head restraints demonstrated good protection against whiplash injuries in the event of a rear-end collision. A geometric assessment of the rear seats also indicated good whiplash protection.
The latest example of the Renault Kangoo, on which the upcoming Mercedes-Benz T-Class is believed to be based, also achieved a four-star rating. The MPV performed well in crash tests, but only moderate side impact protection offered, its score just fell below that required for a top five-star rating. Earing the Kangoo some extra points were the several active safety features including autonomous braking that prevent collisions with cars, pedestrians and cyclists.
The Euro NCAP noted that the Renault Kangoo’s passenger compartment o remained stable in the frontal offset test. Dummy readings demonstrated good protection of the knees and femurs of the driver and passenger dummy. Renault showed that a similar level of protection would be provided to occupants of different sizes and to those sitting in different positions. Protection of the driver dummy’s chest was rated as marginal, based on measurements of compression during the test. Analysis of the deformable impact barrier after the test, and of decelerations of the trolley during the test, indicated that the Kangoo would be quite a benign crash partner in collisions with other vehicles.
Euro NCAP’s Secretary General, Michiel van Ratingen, says, “Two four-star cars but coming at it from different directions. With the Kangoo, Renault has launched a respectable successor that performs well in general and lacks only a centre airbag as far as state-of-the-art protection is concerned. Stellantis seems to accept lower performance in general, and the new Opel Mokka lacks some critical safety systems that have become increasingly commonplace by now. The latest edition clearly lacks the ambition of the previous Mokka that was a runner-up of 2012 Best in Class in the Small Family category.”
