Interestingly, the Mercedes E class, which tops the rankings in Euro ncap in 2024, is one of the safest for pedestrians as well as occupants

The EU has pedestrian safety regulations. The US does not. (NHTSA just proposed rules a week ago www.nhtsa.gov/press-releas...)

NHTSA Proposes New Vehicle Safety Standard to Better Protect Pedestrians | NHTSA

The Notice of Proposed Rulemaking announced would require manufacturers to add pedestrian safety design to reduce pedestrian deaths and injuries.