2026 Nissan Qashqai safety score slashed in latest ratings release alongside Suzuki e-Vitara, Cupra Leon, Audi A3 and Q3

The Nissan Qashqai is among several models to learn their safety fate as part of the latest batch of Australasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP) ratings.

The updated Qashqai family SUV has received a four-star rating, down from the five-star rating awarded in 2017.

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The 78 per cent Adult Protection rating was in significant part due the front structure of the car presenting a moderate risk to occupants of oncoming vehicles in the frontal offset test.

Its Vulnerable Road User Protection rating was at 68 per cent, while its Safety Assist rating was 62 per cent.

The incoming Suzuki e-Vitara was also hit with a four-star rating.

The e-Vitara was the first Suzuki to be tested by ANCAP since the Fronx compact SUV. The Fronx was subject to a major recall following its one-star rating, with ANCAP urging people to not travel in the rear seats of the car.

With a 77 per cent Adult Protection rating, the e-Vitara had marginal protection for the driver’s chest and adequate protection for the passenger’s chest, with good protection elsewhere.

The car was also marked down due to the lack of a centre airbag, according to ANCAP.

The safety regulator’s Chief Executive Officer Carla Hoorweg acknowledged the safety improvement from Suzuki.

“It’s encouraging to see improvements in safety performance across the market, this latest rating achieved by the e-Vitara is evidence Suzuki can produce a model that offers sound levels of safety performance,” Hoorweg said.

There were new five-star ratings for the revamped Audi A3 hatchback and the Q3 compact SUV. The A3 was awarded 86 per cent for Adult Protection and 80 per cent for Child Occupant Protection, while the Q3 got 87 per cent and 86 per cent, respectively.

The other car to earn a five-star rating was the updated Cupra Leon hatchback. It received 88 per cent for Adult Protection and 86 per cent for Child Protection, with 82 per cent each for Vulnerable Road User Protection and Safety Assist.