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

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12 Jan 2022

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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.

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.

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

2018: Lexus ES
2017: Toyota Prius
2016: No winner
2015: Jaguar XE
2014: Mercedes C-Class
2013: Lexus IS
2012: BMW 3 Series
2011: Volvo V60
2010: No winner

Family cars

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Shane Wilkinson

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.