Press Release

The RACT says that buyers of utilities have new cause to celebrate after the Australian made Ford Falcon utility achieved a five star safety rating in crash tests conducted last month by the Australasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP), which is partly funded by the RACT.

Darren Moody, the RACT's General Manager of Roadside and Technical Services, said the 5-star ratings apply to 6 and 8-cylinder models fitted with ESC, head and chest protecting side airbags, and tunnel-mounted transmission control gear shift.

"The Ford Falcon ute is a work horse for trades people and many people living and working in rural areas. So it's great to see these vehicles achieving the highest safety rating from the ANCAP crash test program". 

ANCAP has also awarded a 5-star safety rating for the BMW X1, based on crash test data from ANCAP's sister program, EuroNCAP.  The Mazda2, with dual airbags, rated 4-stars. In 2008, ANCAP published a 5-star rating for the Mazda2 when optioned with 6 airbags and Electronic Stability Control (ESC).  Consumers should note the difference in the various model options.

ANCAP first tested the Falcon Ute in 2008 and it earned a 4-star rating. The latest crash tests assessed the extra protection provided by the optional side airbags with head protection.

Crash research shows that head-protecting side airbags halve the risk of a brain injury in a severe side impact.  An ANCAP 5-star rating ensures that the vehicle has this protection, as well as the life-saving crash avoidance technology, ESC.

"Fleet managers and new car buyers should take note of these findings, and always choose a 5-star ANCAP rated vehicle," Mr Moody said.

ANCAP is supported by all Australian and New Zealand motoring clubs, all Australian state governments, the New Zealand government, the Victorian Transport Accident Commission, NRMA Insurance and the FIA Foundation.  For a full list of ANCAP's vehicle safety ratings, including more commercial vehicles and other vehicle safety information, go to www.ancap.com.au

For further information:
Darren Moody, GM Roadside and Technical Services
0419 893 900