The Hyundai new generation Santa Fe has been named as the safest car in its class assessed by Euro NCAP during 2012. 

Its scores across all test categories were best in class, making it one of the safest vehicles ever tested by the independent vehicle assessment organisation and the best in the ‘Large Off-Road 4x4' segment - ahead of the Mercedes-Benz M-Class and Range Rover.

Of the 36 vehicles tested during 2012, the eight top-performers in their segments have been recommended by Euro NCAP for their leading levels of safety across a range of assessments. 

In the ‘adult occupant' category, the new generation Santa Fe scored 96% with maximum points in the side barrier test.

In the ‘child occupant' category, the D-segment SUV received a score of 89%, and features such as electronic stability control contributed to the car's score of 86% in the ‘safety assist' category.

The new generation Santa Fe is the brand's first car to be equipped with an active bonnet. 

This activates if a pedestrian is hit, reducing impact forces and reducing the risk of serious injury. 

The result of this is a ‘pedestrian safety' score of 71%. The nearest score among rivals in this category was 63%.