NRMA Insurance has announced a new safety section on its website designed to help consumers choose their next new car.

Cars in each class are recommended on the website according to their ratings on three safety criteria including the latest Australasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP) crash test results, head restraint design and whether the car has optional electronic stability control.

The insurer says recent research shows that only 20% of NSW drivers consider safety as the most important factor when choosing a new car. It hopes the website will increase interest in safety and help buyers make informed choices.