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Best cars & vans

Safest large family cars 2019: Tesla Model 3 and BMW 3 Series

These two cars came in joint first when originally tested in 2019

Tesla Model 3 - tracking

The large family car award is a bit of a catch-all category, the most recent joint winners - tested in 2019 - were the Tesla Model 3 and BMW 3 Series, which took the title from the Lexus ES

Tesla Model 3 Euro NCAP front impact test

Euro NCAP

Both cars scored identical overall results, but more specifically, the BMW scored higher in pedestrian protection, with 87 per cent compared with the Model 3’s 74 per cent. The Tesla, however, had the advantage in the Safety Assist category with 94 per cent compared to the 3 Series’ 76 per cent.

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Both cars scored highly for the safety of occupants - with the Tesla achieving 86 per cent for children and 96 per cent for adults. 

BMW 3 Series Euro NCAP front collision testing

Euro NCAP

The BMW scored ever so slightly higher with 87 per cent for children and a particularly impressive 97 per cent for adults.

Safest large family car - previous winners

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Shane is responsible for looking after the day-to-day running of the Auto Express website and social media channels. Prior to joining Auto Express in 2021, he worked as a radio producer and presenter for outlets such as the BBC.

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