New VW Passat and Sharan awarded 5 stars in Euro NCAP crash tests

The previous Passat already had a five star rating and the new model has retained that distinction, scoring 38 points for child safety and 33 points for passenger safety. It features two innovative safety measures: a fatigue detection system that monitors the driver's actions and gives a visible and audible warning if the driver is not active enough and may well need a break; and an emergency braking system that will automatically brake the vehicle at speeds under 18mph if a collision is imminent. The same system will also gently accelerate the vehicle if a rear impact is likely, provided the road ahead is clear.  

The Sharan also achieved 5 stars and scored an overall 96% (amongst the all-time high scores), with 39 points for child safety and 34 points for passenger safety. A contributory factor no doubt is the new airbag system. All three rows of seats benefit from a curtain airbag system; the first two rows also have side airbags, and as well as the driver and passenger airbags there is a further airbag for the driver's knees.

Both the Passat and the Sharan also come with features such as anti-lock braking systems with hydraulic assist and Volkswagen's 'ESP' (Electronic Stablisation Programme).

The new Euro NCAP tests are the toughest yet; the five star ratings (the highest achievable) for both cars mean they are among the safest vehicles in their class - and indeed among the safest on the road.