Tesla Model 3 and Model Y: The Safest Euro NCAP

January 14, 2026 will remain a significant date for Tesla. The reference organization Euro NCAP has just awarded two Best in Class titles to the Californian brand’s vehicles: the Model 3 stands out as the safest large family car, while the Model Y takes the crown as the safest compact SUV on the market.

This recognition by a leading independent European organization concretely validates Tesla’s efforts in terms of safety. Both models distinguished themselves in ultra-competitive categories, with performances “fractionally” close to the Mercedes-Benz CLA, which holds the best overall score for 2025.

Two Prestigious Titles in Ultra-Competitive Categories

The Best in Class Euro NCAP label is not easily obtained. To claim this distinction, one must first achieve the maximum rating of 5 stars, which is already a remarkable achievement. But that’s not all: only standard equipment is taken into account in the final evaluation.

No optional system, even the most powerful, can influence the ranking. This rule ensures that all buyers benefit from the same level of protection, without additional cost.

The year 2025 was particularly intense for Euro NCAP, with a record number of vehicles tested. In this highly competitive context, the Model 3 won the ‘Large Family Car’ category, while the Model Y 2025, sales champion in Europe, prevailed in the ‘Small Off-Road/MPV’ (compact SUVs) category.

These two segments are precisely the most popular in the French and European markets, which strengthens the commercial impact of these awards.

Impressive Scores in the 4 Pillars of Evaluation

Euro NCAP evaluates safety across four distinct areas, each contributing to the final score. The features of the refreshed Model 3 and Model Y allowed them to excel across all these criteria:

• Adult Occupant Protection
• Child Occupant Protection
• Vulnerable Road User Protection (pedestrians, cyclists)
• Driving Assistance (Safety Assist)

Child Protection: A Common Strength of Both Models

It is on this criterion that both Tesla models particularly shine. The scores obtained for child protection are among the highest in their respective categories.

The ISOFIX systems with multiple anchor points, side airbags, and presence detection form a reassuring package for French families, who represent a significant portion of Tesla’s customer base.

This technical performance directly addresses the concerns of parents who are looking for an electric vehicle without compromising on the safety of their children.

Assistance Systems: Tesla’s Intelligence Makes the Difference

It is probably in the ‘Driving Assistance’ category that Tesla’s advantage is most pronounced. The Autopilot assistance systems included as standard offer a level of protection rarely matched in these price segments.

Automatic emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection, lane departure warning, blind spot monitoring, and 360° cameras all function as standard, with no additional options to pay for.

An additional advantage lies in the OTA updates (Over-The-Air) which allow these systems to be continuously improved after purchase, unlike most competitors whose features remain fixed.

Model Y Crowned ‘Absolute Benchmark’ by Euro NCAP

Among the two awards, the Model Y’s holds particular significance. Euro NCAP described Tesla’s compact SUV as an ‘absolute benchmark’ in its category, a rare expression in the organization’s communication.

This recognition is particularly meaningful when we know that the compact SUV segment is the best-selling in Europe. Against competitors like the Volkswagen ID.4, the Peugeot e-3008, or the Volvo EX40, the Model Y thus establishes itself as the objective benchmark in terms of safety.

Despite the 2024 refresh which modernized the interior and improved the driving range, Tesla has maintained, or even strengthened, the vehicle’s level of safety excellence. This technical continuity reassures current owners and encourages future buyers.

In France, where the Model Y is already the sales leader for electric vehicles, this official distinction should further strengthen its dominant position.

Tesla vs. Mercedes: A Technical Duel at the Summit

Let’s be honest: Tesla did not achieve the best absolute score across all categories. This title goes to the Mercedes-Benz CLA, which takes first place in the overall 2025 ranking.

According to Euro NCAP’s official terms, Tesla is “fractionally behind” the German manufacturer. Dr. Michiel van Ratingen, Secretary General of Euro NCAP, also praised the overall level of excellence achieved by all premium manufacturers this year.

This top-level duel demonstrates that Tesla now plays in the same league as traditional European premium brands. A legitimacy confirmed by objective results, not just by marketing.

The ranking also reveals the emergence of new Chinese players like Firefly or Leapmotor, who are shaking up established standards. Competition is intensifying, and evaluation criteria are becoming more demanding each year.

What This Concretely Changes for Tesla Owners

Beyond symbolic recognition, these Euro NCAP titles have practical implications for current and future Model 3 and Model Y owners.

Firstly, some insurers adjust their rates based on Euro NCAP ratings. A Best in Class vehicle can therefore potentially reduce your insurance premium. Check with your insurer to see if this distinction is taken into account.

Secondly, the resale value could be strengthened. An objective and documented safety argument is a commercial asset during resale, especially for family buyers sensitive to this criterion.

Thirdly, this recognition provides a factual answer to criticisms sometimes heard about Tesla’s safety. Data from an independent organization carries much more weight than marketing arguments.

For prospective buyers who are still hesitant, this Euro NCAP validation offers an external guarantee, distinct from Tesla’s own communication. This is particularly reassuring in a context where safety is often the primary purchase criterion for families.

Let’s also not forget that Tesla continuously improves its safety systems via OTA updates. Unlike traditional vehicles whose performance remains fixed after purchase, Tesla vehicles benefit from regular improvements, even several years after leaving the factory.

Finally, maintaining a 5-star rating becomes more difficult each year, as independent certification bodies like Euro NCAP constantly toughen their evaluation methodology. What was considered excellent yesterday gradually becomes the norm tomorrow. In this context of increasing demands, winning two Best in Class titles represents an achievement that the French Tesliens community can legitimately be proud of.