ANCAP has awarded the Audi Q5, Skoda Kodiaq, Mini Countryman and Audi Q2 a maximum five-star rating.

MINI COUNTRYMAN has copped a five-star rating from ANCAP which should see Mini fist pumping after this new model’s predecessor was only given a four-star rating locally. The new Skoda Kodiaq (4×4 variants only) was also awarded a five-star rating, along with the new Audi Q5 (all variants) and Audi Q2 (all variants).

In a statement, ANCAP boss, James Goodwin, said: “The Kodiaq has been assessed against the latest criteria offering a range of important safety technologies as standard including autonomous emergency braking, multi-collision braking and speed limiter”.

“A top safety score and impressive array of standard safety features are offered on all Q5 and SQ5 models. It has an advanced autonomous emergency braking system which operates at city and highway speeds, with the added ability to detect and assist in avoiding pedestrians up to a speed of 85km/h,” Goodwin added.

Speaking about the Mini’s jumped up rating (although only the Cooper D variant can claim the five-star rating officially), Goodwin said: “Not only has Mini improved on the structural performance of the Countryman – they’re offering the highest level of safety assist features seen from the brand with autonomous emergency braking including pedestrian detection, and a speed sign recognition and warning system”.