Tesla Model 3 and MGS5 EV Triumphs In Euro NCAP Tests

The latest 2025MY Tesla Model 3 and new MGS5 EV have both achieved strong five-star ratings from Euro NCAP. These EVs, both available in Malaysia now, are positioned in different market segments - the Model 3 is pipped as a compact family saloon whilst the MGS5 EV touted as a compact crossover SUV offering instead.

Back to the tests, the results show that the Tesla Model 3 earned a 90% score for Adult Occupant Protection, earning 36.4 out of 40 points. It also scored 13.4 points in frontal crash tests, in turn indicating strong knee and femur protection. The structure remained stable across various occupant sizes and positions, notes the Euro NCAP.

In side impacts, the Model 3 acheived a perfect score of 16 points. Protection was strong in both the barrier and pole tests. Far-side impact control was adequate, and the centre airbag worked effectively. Whiplash protection also scored full marks, 4.0 out of 4. Notable, Tesla includes advanced eCall, a multi-collision braking system, and submersion-ready windows and doors, further boosting its safety credentials.

Moving on to the MGS5 EV, this compact crossover SUV also scored 90% for Adult Occupant Protection, with 36.2 points scored out of the maximum 40 points. It slightly outperformed Tesla in frontal impact (14.1 points), although some dashboard areas posed risk to differently sized occupants.

Side impact results were excellent, with 15.9 points overall. Like Tesla, it performed well in far-side impacts and whiplash protection, and includes similar safety tech like eCall and multi-collision braking. However, its submersion performance was only partially compliant.

In Child Occupant Protection, the Model 3 led with 93% or 46.0 points. It scored full marks in crash tests for 6- and 10-year-old dummies, and in child restrain seat (CRS) installation. Tesla’s child safety features, including airbag deactivation and child presence detection, contributed 10.0 out of 13 points.

The MG scored 82%, or 40.2 points. It also scored full marks for crash tests and nearly full for CRS checks. But it lacks child presence detection and lack of CRS support in the rear centre seat, lowering its score to 5.0 out of 13.

As for the Vulnerable Road Users test, the Model 3 again led with 89% (56.2 points). Its active bonnet helped with head protection, though windscreen pillars were weaker. Leg and pelvis protection were excellent.

Tesla’s AEB system performed strongly, scoring 8.0/9 for pedestrians, 8.0/8 for cyclists, and 6.0/6 for motorcyclists. It also earned 1.0 for cyclist dooring prevention.

The MG scored 82% (51.9 points) in this test. Head, leg, and pelvis protection were mostly good. Its AEB system matched Tesla’s in performance but scored only 0.3/1 for dooring prevention as it was limited to the driver’s side only.

In Safety Assist, the Model 3 scored 87% or 15.7 points. It earned full marks in lane support, 8.8/9 for car-to-car AEB, 2.6/3 in speed assistance and 1.4 points in driver monitoring. Seatbelt reminders scored a perfect 1.0.

The MG followed with 78% (14.1 points). It matched Tesla in lane support, scored 7.6/9 in AEB, and 1.7/3 in speed assistance. Driver monitoring earned 0.9, while seatbelt reminders again scored full marks.

Overall, both models offer excellent safety. The Tesla Model 3 leads with stronger scores in nearly all areas, especially in child safety and active assistance. The MGS5 EV is a capable EV SUV alternative, offering solid protection and value in the compact SUV category.