Smashed it! 2022 Isuzu MU-X and Toyota Yaris Cross get maximum ANCAP five-star safety rating

Australian independent vehicle safety authority ANCAP has released another round of five-star ratings, with the second-generation Isuzu MU-X large SUV and first-generation Toyota Yaris Cross light SUV the latest models to get the maximum overall result range-wide.

In terms of the specific testing categories, the MU-X received 87 per cent for Adult Occupant Protection, 85 per cent for Child Occupant Protection, 69 per cent for Vulnerable Road User Protection and 84 per cent for Safety Assist.

Comparatively, the Yaris Cross scored 86 per cent for both Adult Occupant Protection and Child Occupant Protection, as well as 78 per cent for Vulnerable Road User Protection and 82 per cent for Safety Assist.

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Of note, both models are fitted with a front-centre airbag as standard, with the emerging safety feature helping to prevent severe driver-to-front-passenger and occupant-to-vehicle collisions in side-impact crashes.

It’s also worth noting the MU-X is also fitted with third-row head-protecting curtain airbags – as attested by Isuzu – unlike numerous other seven-seat SUVs. Being a five-seat crossover, the Yaris Cross doesn’t have additional occupants to cover.

Regarding the MU-X, ANCAP CEO Carla Hoorweg said: “The MU-X takes advantage of the safety features already demonstrated in the [related] D-Max, and it’s pleasing to see this strong performance carried over into the Large SUV segment.

“Safety is a must for those in the market for a seven-seat family vehicle, and the MU-X provides a safe choice for active families.”

Coming standard with the first-generation Toyota Yaris Cross is a front-centre airbag.

And as far as the Yaris Cross is concerned, ANCAP pointed out that “the safety performance of the Toyota Yaris Cross follows that of the [related] Yaris hatch, in offering a balanced level of active and passive safety to buyers in the Small SUV segment.”

Ms Hoorweg added: “Both the Isuzu MU-X and Toyota Yaris Cross are very well equipped in the areas of physical crash protection and active collision avoidance, making them safe choices within their respective segments.”