Safest small MPV

In the competitive world of compact people carriers, Toyota’s conservative approach to body styling means that the Verso doesn’t stand out. Yet the seven-seater is ahead of the pack when it comes to safety.
 
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It was awarded an impressive five-star score by Euro NCAP, and proves that practicality doesn’t have to come atthe expense of safety. In particular, the Verso excelled in the body’s pedestrian and 

safety assist categories.

It scores well for active technology, as it comes with stability control as standard, as well as seatbelt warnings across all three rows of seats. What’s more, side airbags and a driver knee bag deliver impressive cushioning for occupants. However, the car has the biggest advantage over its competitors in this sector in the prevention of pedestrian injury.

The front bumper scored maximum points, while the bonnet was rated as good in most areas where an adult or child would be most likely to impact. As a result, only the BMW 5-Series and Honda 

CR-Z bettered the Toyota’s impressive 69 per cent pedestrian rating in the Euro NCAP crash tests.

The Verso’s occupant safety report wasn’t 100 per cent glowing – which proves just how important it is to always check the individual category scores and not only the overall rating. 

While the passenger compartment stood up well to frontal shunts, and the car picked up maximum points in the side impact test, the more severe side pole collision simulation brought a marginal rating, as did whiplash protection.

As a result, both versions of Ford’s new C-MAX achieved better occupant safety scores for adults and children. This hands the blue oval model the advantage here in our book – especially as it’s 

the better vehicle. While the Verso is a decent people carrier, with a simple and adaptable seating layout, it doesn’t have the involving dynamics and upmarket cabin of its competitor.

Even so, if you combine its excellent overall Euro NCAP performance with its affordable price, versatile cabin and five-year warranty, the Toyota is still a sound alternative.