Cars

Fiat Tipo gets crash test rating from Euro Ncap

Car safety testers Euro Ncap has given the new Fiat Tipo three- and four-stars under its new dual rating system
Car safety testers Euro Ncap has given the new Fiat Tipo three- and four-stars under its new dual rating system Car safety testers Euro Ncap has given the new Fiat Tipo three- and four-stars under its new dual rating system

FIAT'S new Tipo family hatchback has been tested for safety by Euro Ncap, securing a three-star rating in its standard guise.

Euro Ncap's rules now allow manufacturers to opt for a 'dual rating' if a model is optionally available with extra safety equipment.

When tested with its optional safety pack, which includes a forward collision warning system with automatic braking, the Tipo's rating rises to four stars.

The Tipo's auto braking system functions at both low and high speeds, but has not been designed to mitigate pedestrian crashes.

Euro Ncap secretary general Michiel van Ratingen noted that the Tipo "is marketed as a functional car which maximizes value for money".

"However, to maximise safety, and to bring the car up to the protection levels offered by its biggest rivals in this segment, consumers should not pass over the safety pack," he advised.