Following a poor two star Euro NCAP rating earlier this year, recent improvements by Ford to it's latest Mustang have seen the vehicle move up to a three star rating.
Ford has responded by making AEB and Lane Assistance standard on its facelifted model and has introduced improvements on its front airbags.
While an improvement, Euro NCAP secretary general Michiel van Ratingen did point out that there is always more that can be done to improve safety.
“It is good to see that after 20 years Euro NCAP’s call for safety improvement still strikes a chord with responsible companies like Ford.
"While a three-star rating is unexceptional, the updates Ford have introduced have not only made Mustang’s safety better in key areas but also show that the company cares about its customers and safety reputation.”
Thatcham Research director of research Matthew Avery echoed Ratingen's notion regarding safety but took the opportunity to remind consumers that five stars should remain the benchmark.
“In just a few months, Ford has responded to improve on the initial low safety rating given to the Mustang.
“Our advice to buyers is to always opt for a Euro NCAP Five Star car, so a Three Star Euro NCAP rating is never a cause for celebration.
"However, Ford’s rapid addition of a suite of standard-fit safety tech and its prompt updates to improve the performance of the airbags and restraints is to be applauded and underlines the power of the Euro NCAP consumer testing programme as a force for positive action."