Volkswagen Passat and Sharan awarded five Euro NCAP stars

VW's new Passat and Sharan models have both scored a maximum of five stars in the stringent Euro NCAP safety tests.

The Sharan clocked-up a 96 per cent rating; a very high score for the people carrier category, thanks to solid performances for adult protection in frontal, side and rear impacts, as well as child and pedestrian safety. Inside the Sharan can be found nine airbags throughout the cabin.

The new Passat, now in its seventh generation, has retained the top five star rating, with strong scores for adult and child occupant protection and pedestrian safety.

Inside the Passat are some new to the segment electronic safety aids. An automatic fatigue detection system monitors driver inputs (or sudden lack of them!) and automatically makes audible and visual warnings to recommend a break.

Meanwhile, the Automatic Distance Control (ADC) system senses unavoidable collisions and brakes the car automatically at speeds below 18mph. The system can also accelerate the Passat automatically should an imminent rear end collision be detected, providing the road ahead is clear.

The new Amarok pick-up, to be launched in 2011, achieved a four star rating in the tests. Inside the Amarok are a whole host of new electronic aids. EDL (Electronic Differential Lock), ASR (Anti-Slip Regulation), ESP with Hill Hold Assist, Hill Descent Assist and off-road ABS designed to significantly shorten stopping distances on loose surfaces.

The five star Sharan

The four star Amarok pick-up