Honda, Suzuki score in latest European crash test

BRUSSELS - The new Honda CR-Z, Citroen C4, Hyundai ix35 and Suzuki Swift scored top marks in the latest EuroNCAP crash test with the testers for the first time crashing a car fitted with hybrid technology.

The Honda CR-Z hybrid achieved 93 percent of the possible points in the segment interior protection, according to the report.

Also achieving a five-star rating was the Citroen C4 in the small car segment, attaining especially good marks for low injury risk in a front collision. Of all the four cars tested the Citroen C4 achieved the highest marks (97 percent) for such features as ESP (Electronic Stability Programme), belt-up warning signal for rear passengers and speed control.

Also in the small car segment the Suzuki Swift was given a five-star rating, especially for the low injury risk in a front collision and high child protection and pedestrian safety factors.

In the off-road segment the Hyundai ix35 was also given a five-star safety rating because of its high pedestrian safety features which surpassed those of the Citroen C4.