Competition in the light commercial vehicle (LCV) segment has been heightened with the Mercedes-Benz X-Class the first utility to enter the Australasian market with autonomous emergency braking (AEB). Three other new models also enter with standard-fit AEB including the Volkswagen Polo, Jaguar E-PACE and BMW X2.

Autonomous emergency braking is fitted as standard on all X-Class variants, helping it achieve a 5 star ANCAP

"This is a game-changer for the ute market and puts pressure on competing brands," said ANCAP Chief Executive, Mr James Goodwin.

"The light commercial vehicle segment has generally lagged passenger cars and SUVs with regard to safety specification, so the inclusion of AEB as standard across the X-Class range is to be commended," he said.

The AEB system fitted to the X-Class performed well – detecting and either avoiding or mitigating crashes with other vehicles at low and high speeds. Its AEB system is also capable of detecting and preventing crashes with pedestrians.

All variants of the Volkswagen Polo, Jaguar E-PACE and BMW X2 have achieved a 5 star ANCAP safety rating.

"The Volkswagen Polo scored a high 96% for Adult Occupant Protection with maximum points scored for the driver in the full width frontal, side impact and oblique pole tests."

"The Jaguar E-PACE scored well across all assessment areas and features a 'pop-up' bonnet and external airbag to improve head protection for struck pedestrians. Lower leg protection for the driver in the frontal offset crash scenario could however be improved," Mr Goodwin said.

"BMW's new small SUV, the X2 also provides a safe choice for adult and child occupants and pedestrians with the standard inclusion of an active bonnet, automatic emergency call function and fatigue detection system."