Tesla Model 3 excels in safety tests but raises Autopilot concerns

In July 2025, the Tesla Model 3 was recognized as the safest new car available for sale, according to the results from Euro NCAP, a leading vehicle safety assessment organization. Scoring an impressive 359 out of a possible 400 points, the Model 3 outperformed 19 other newly tested vehicles. These results reflect the car's robustness across critical safety categories including adult and child occupant protection, pedestrian safety, and advanced safety assist features. This marks a significant achievement amid a challenging sales climate for Tesla in Europe, potentially attributed to the controversies surrounding CEO Elon Musk's political activities. The Euro NCAP's assessment emphasizes Tesla's commitment to safety through the innovative design and advanced driver assistance systems incorporated into the Model 3. For instance, the automatic emergency braking system received praise for its performance under various test conditions. The organization noted several features that contribute to the vehicle's overall safety, such as the child presence detection system and Intelligent Speed Assistance. Moreover, the Model 3's design includes robust crash protection for front and side collisions, as well as a pedestrian-friendly pop-up hood, which has garnered positive feedback from safety testers. However, despite the car's high safety ratings, concerns were raised regarding the Autopilot system. Euro NCAP highlighted the risk of drivers overestimating the capabilities of this system, which could lead to dangerous misuse or distractions while driving. These cautions come at a time when Tesla's Full Self-Driving (FSD) Supervised feature, a more comprehensive safety suite, is not yet permitted on European roads. This highlights the need for clearer communication about the actual capabilities of Tesla’s autonomous driving technology, especially in complex urban environments found in Europe compared to the simpler street layouts in the US. This combination of commendation for safety and caution regarding Autopilot capabilities sets an intriguing stage for Tesla. As the company navigates challenges in sales and public perception, maintaining consumer trust in their safety technologies will be critical. The Euro NCAP's findings provide a dual narrative: while the Model 3 excels in protecting passengers, the accompanying Autopilot narrative requires careful management to prevent potential misinterpretations by drivers. The ongoing development of Tesla's autonomous capabilities and the regulatory environment surrounding them will undoubtedly shape the future of the Model 3 and Tesla's position in the automotive safety landscape.