All three cars - Toyota Aygo, Citroen C1 and Peugeot 107, have been recently facelifted from the previous models tested by Euro NCAP that achieved four stars for adult occupant protection back in 2005.
While the facelifted models are sold as new to the public, Euro NCAP say 'it is clear that they have failed to keep abreast of latest safety developments and standards'.
Euro NCAP test protocols have evolved significantly over the past few years with more stringent tests and requirements. "Despite this, many manufacturers have engineered their latest cars to achieve the highest 5-star score," says Dr Michiel van Ratingen, Euro NCAP Secretary General. "On the other hand, we see that some manufacturers continue to offer popular best sellers without making the necessary incremental updates to safety. It is those models that obviously fall behind other, more modern cars competing in the same category."
Euro NCAP say the current model of Aygo and its twins lack basic items such as side impact airbags and electronic stability control as standard equipment.
In response to the latest tests, Toyota has made a commitment to make some items as standard by July 2013. These include side thorax airbag, side head curtain airbag, electronic stability control, passenger seatbelt reminder, and ISOFIX and top-tether in rear outboard seats.
PSA Peugeot-Citroen has also committed to do the same with its 107 and C1 models.
