While today's vehicles boast cutting-edge tech and plush interiors, many still fail where it matters most, keeping pedestrians safe. In a country where pedestrian deaths are rising at an alarming rate, that failure has deadly consequences.
Choosing a vehicle that actively protects pedestrians isn’t just a smart consumer move, it’s a moral one. In this guide, we break down the best and worst cars for pedestrian safety in Australia, unpacking the standout features that save lives, and calling out the models that put them at risk.
Why Pedestrian Safety Deserves Your Attention
Last year, a shocking 506 pedestrian lives were lost on Australian roads, marking a 15.5% increase from the year before. Vulnerable road users like pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists now account for 15% of all road fatalities.
Thankfully, modern vehicle safety technologies are helping to make a difference. For example:
- Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) can reduce rear-end crashes by up to 40%, and vehicle occupant trauma by 28%.
- By August 2026, all new vehicles sold in Australia must include AEB with pedestrian detection.
Best Cars for Pedestrian Safety
Some cars go the extra mile when it comes to protecting people outside the vehicle. These top-rated models scored high in ANCAP’s Vulnerable Road User Protection (VRUP) category, and they’re already on Australian roads. Let’s take a look at some models:
1. BMW 5 Series
With a VRUP score of 86%, the BMW 5 Series leads the pack. It features pedestrian AEB and cyclist anti-dooring technology to help prevent serious collisions.
2. Lexus RZ
The electric Lexus RZ scored 84% in VRUP, even under ANCAP’s stricter 2023 standards. It’s equipped with AEB that detects stationary motorcyclists, an innovation that also benefits pedestrian safety.
3. Honda Civic e:HEV
This hybrid hatchback features eleven airbags, including rare rear side chest airbags, and holds an 82% VRUP score.
4. Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV
A large electric SUV with a VRUP score of 80%, it includes advanced reversing pedestrian detection and adaptive cruise control systems.
5. Toyota Camry Hybrid
Long known for its reliability, the Toyota Camry Hybrid achieved 95% for adult occupant protection and strong pedestrian safety results. It remains a solid choice for safety-conscious families.
Worst Cars for Pedestrian Safety
On the flip side, several models fall short, some with disturbingly low safety ratings. These are the models to reconsider if pedestrian safety is important to you:
1. MG5
Rated zero stars by ANCAP, the MG5 lacks critical safety systems like lane-keeping assist and blind spot monitoring. It failed multiple crash tests, exposing pedestrians to potentially fatal injuries.
2. Mahindra Scorpio
This SUV showed poor crash performance, with severe head, pelvis, and leg injury risks to pedestrians. It also lacks curtain airbags.
3. Suzuki Swift (AU Models)
Although popular, the locally sold Swift earned just one star, revealing weak occupant and pedestrian protection.
4. Jeep Gladiator/Wrangler/Avenger
Despite having AEB, these models struggle with pedestrian detection and haven’t resolved structural flaws affecting VRUP scores.
5. Suzuki Jimny (3-Door)
With only three stars, this Jimny variant showed significant body deformation in crash testing and features a limited AEB system.
Key Safety Features That Protect Pedestrians
When comparing vehicle safety, keep an eye out for these critical features:
- Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB): Detects pedestrians and applies brakes automatically, both in forward and reverse.
- Airbags: Front centre and knee airbags reduce the impact of crashes on occupants and external victims.
- Cyclist Anti-Dooring Technology: Alerts occupants to approaching cyclists, useful for urban pedestrian scenarios.
- Acoustic Vehicle Alerting Systems (AVAS): From November 2025, EVs must emit low-speed sound alerts to protect pedestrians.
- Advanced Lane Support Systems: Helps avoid side-swipe incidents involving pedestrians and cyclists.
Making Roads Safer: What Needs to Change?
Improving pedestrian safety goes beyond better vehicles. Here’s how Australia can do more:
- Stronger Government Regulation: Mandatory AEB for all new vehicles by 2026 is a positive step.
- Smarter Urban Design: Raised crossings, speed humps and better line marking help reduce pedestrian crashes.
- Informed Consumers: Buyers should prioritise ANCAP VRUP ratings, not just price tags, when choosing a car.
- Car Manufacturer Responsibility: Brands must address design flaws and ensure all variants, not just premium ones, have full safety suites.
The Bottom Line: Choose Cars That Look Out for People
Whether you're a daily commuter, parent, or weekend driver, your choice of vehicle directly impacts pedestrian safety. Opting for models like the Toyota Camry Hybrid, Lexus RZ, or BMW 5 Series means you're choosing to protect not just your passengers, but everyone who shares the road.
In the end, pedestrian safety isn’t just about high-tech features, it’s about making responsible decisions. So next time you’re in the market for a vehicle, ask yourself:
Does this car protect more than just me?
Let’s shift gears towards safer roads, together.
