Ford Mustang scores extra star in Euro NCAP reassessment

The European New Car Assessment Programme has granted the updated Ford Mustang an extra star after extra crash avoidance technology was added to the coupe.

Though the vehicle is structurally identical to the previous cars tested, Euro NCAP examined the other changes with a series of tests, while retaining the scorecard for the crash tests performed on the previous car.

Euro NCAP points out that the revised test applies to cars that are equipped as standard with “Ford's pre-collision assist (with pedestrian detection, forward collision warning and autonomous emergency braking) and lane keeping aid”.

“The restraint system has been updated to prevent the airbag bottoming out for driver and passenger.

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“In addition, the automatic airbag deactivation now meets Euro NCAP's requirements.”

Euro NCAP previously rated the Mustang two stars just as ANCAP did, since the two organisations share testing procedures and rating systems.

This means we can expect to see ANCAP echo the three-star rating recently bestowed upon the Pony by its European counterpart.

Despite the low rating, the Mustang remains one of the most popular sports cars in the country.

After the tests, Euro NCAP secretary general Michiel van Ratingen said it was good to see companies like Ford taking safety seriously.

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“It is good to see that after 20 years Euro NCAP’s call for safety improvement still strikes a chord with responsible companies like Ford.

“While a three-star rating is unexceptional, the updates Ford have introduced have not only made Mustang’s safety better in key areas but also show that the company cares about its customers and safety reputation.”