Mercedes, Volvo Models Earn Top NCAP Automatic Brake Rating

The automatic self-braking systems in the Mercedes-Benz E-Class sedan and Volvo V40 sport wagon have received top ratings in the first round of evaluations for such systems by the European New Car Assessment Program.

So-called autonomous emergency braking (AEB) technology monitors traffic ahead and applies the brakes if the system perceives an imminent collision. Euro NCAP says the capability could reduce rear-end crashes by at least 25%. Beginning next year, cars sold in Europe must be equipped with an effective AEB system to earn the group's top safety rating.

Euro NCAP gave its highest "good" rating for automatic slow-speed (50 kph) and high-speed (80 kph) braking to the E-Class and V40. It also awarded a "good" rating to the Mitsubishi Outlander SUV for low-speed braking and the Volkswagen Golf VII for high-speed braking.

The AEB systems for three other vehicles the Volvo XC60 crossover, Fiat 500L city car and Ford Focus small sedan received "adequate" ratings for low-speed autonomous braking.

The Mitsubishi Outlander earned an "adequate" rating for high-speed braking. Euro NCAP ruled that the AEB system in the Honda Civic small sedan was "marginal" for high-speed braking.