The all-new Ford Ranger cements its position as Europe’s safest pick-up after passing Euro NCAP’s toughest-ever safety assessment.

Crash test experts re-graded the Ford Ranger using a new scoring system introduced for 2012 and the pick-up again achieved the same maximum possible five-star rating as it did last year.

The result means the Ford Ranger remains the only five-star rated pick-up on sale. The best-selling Ford Focus also retained its five stars after being reassessed as well as gaining two Euro NCAP Advanced Awards for passenger safety.

Euro NCAP spokesman, Michiel van Ratingen, said: "Our scoring system has been revised to place even greater emphasis on the importance of pedestrian protection. The new Ford Ranger is the only vehicle in its class to achieve the marks we now demand of a five-star safety rated vehicle."

Stuart Southgate, Ford automotive safety director, said: "The 2012 Euro NCAP crash tests are the safety barometer all new cars will be measured against and for Focus and Ranger to achieve five stars again is a great achievement.

“Safety is a core value for Ford Motor Company and we’re delighted that the Ford Ranger and Ford Focus have met and exceeded the highest standards demanded by Euro NCAP," he added.

Mike Penning MP, Road Safety Minister, visited Ford Dunton Technical centre in Essex this week for a tour of Ford’s safety-testing facilities, including the Ford HYGE crash test, Engine Dynamometer and Environmental Test departments.

He said: “I am delighted that Ford has achieved these impressive five-star safety ratings for the Ford Focus and Ford Ranger, awarded by Euro NCAP this month. 

“Improvements in vehicle safety technology have contributed enormously to the reduction in casualties we have seen in recent years and developments in this area will ensure that road deaths and injuries continue to fall.”

The Ford Ranger has unique pedestrian-friendly features including an under-bonnet structure which reduces the potential for pedestrian head injuries. The front bumper incorporates energy-absorbing materials designed to further improve safety. 

These features enabled the Ranger to set a record-high Euro NCAP score for pedestrian protection.