Toyota’s constant improvement of its safety technologies has helped Prius – the world’s best-selling full hybrid car – comply with Euro NCAP’s more stringent and wider-ranging test criteria, which cover not only how vehicle occupants and pedestrians are protected in real-life accident scenarios, but also the quality and range of safety equipment provided.

The new Prius achieved an excellent 92 per cent score for overall adult occupant protection; 82 per cent for child occupants; 77 per cent for pedestrian protection performance; and 85 per cent for safety assist performance.

In its report, Euro NCAP commended the new Prius for maximum point scores achieved in its side barrier impact test, with “good protection of all critical body areas” and a further maximum score for the performance of its autonomous emergency braking system. This safety function is included in the car’s Pre-Collision System, and is able to detect and react to pedestrians as well as vehicles in the car’s path.

The Pre-Collision System is part of the Toyota Safety Sense package of active safety features, together with Adaptive Cruise Control with Full Speed Following function, Lane Departure Alert with steering control, Automatic High Beam and Road Sign Assist, provided as standard on all new Prius models. Additional radar-controlled systems including a Blind Spot Monitor and Rear Cross Traffic Alert are also available.

The new Prius’ crash test performance reflects the fundamental strength of its Toyota New Global Architecture-based platform and body, which make good use of strategic reinforcements and use of high-strength steels to absorb and channel impact forces away from the cabin.

Launched earlier this year, the new Prius achieves the greatest advances yet in the fuel and emissions efficiency of Toyota’s full hybrid technology, while delivering a significantly more rewarding and engaging driving experience.