BRITAIN'S safest lower medium sector cars will be revealed in May when the third set of results under the Euro-NCAP crash testing programme are announced. And fleet managers will have the opportunity to examine the crash-tested cars and discuss the results at the Transport Research Laboratory on May 29.

A total of 12 cars are being tested - the Audi A3, Daewoo Lanos, Honda Civic, Peugeot 306, Suzuki Baleno, Volkswagen Golf, Citroen Xsara, Fiat Brava, Hyundai Accent, Mitsubishi Lancer, Renault Megane and Toyota Corolla - with neither the new Vauxhall Astra or forthcoming Ford Escort being tested due to lack of availability. However, it is expected that both cars will be tested under the programme as soon as they become available.

Meanwhile, the revised Mercedes-Benz A-class is being tested at the same time following the changes made to the vehicle as a result of it turning over while undergoing the so-called 'elk test' during a press launch last year. Fleet managers interested in examining the crash tested cars on May 29 should contact the Transport Research Laboratory press office on 01344 770141.