As the pandemic heats up the second-hand car market, vehicles manufactured in the past 20 years can now be compared with a guide that governments hope will help address road tolls.
Monash University Accident Research Centre has released its latest Used Car Safety Ratings Guide, updating an earlier version from 2019.
The guide, based on statistical analysis of police-reported crashes for more than 8.8 million vehicles, provides safety ratings for nearly 300 used car models manufactured this century.
NSW transport minister and roads minister Andrew Constance said three quarters of vehicles purchased in Australia were second hand.
He highlighted examples of the highest performing cars for safety included the Toyota Prius, Ford Falcon and Mitsubishi Outlander, among others.
The coronavirus has led to production delays that have seen more buyers turn to the second-hand market.
“[The guide] gives drivers ratings for 276 vehicles so they can consider which option is safest in their price range,” Mr Constance said.
The state’s regional roads minister said Paul Toole said more than 80% of regional drivers owned second-hand vehicles.
“Driving on country roads means facing unexpected challenges, including wildlife, natural hazards and changing weather, so it’s important that they know how safe a vehicle is,” Mr Toole said.
WA road safety sinister Paul Papalia said the guide was useful for drivers getting their first car.
“Safety features such as airbags, autonomous emergency braking and lane departure warnings are proven lifesavers on our roads,” Papalia said.
“There are plenty of affordable used cars with excellent safety ratings, and this guide makes it easy to find a vehicle that suits everyone’s needs.”
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