Completely redesigned for the 2015 model year, the WRX and range-topping STI received the highest marks in each one of the IIHS crashworthiness evaluations.
The organization praises the new structure for holding up well in the challenging small-overlap test, which replicates an accident with a solid barrier striking the front edge at 40 mph.
“The dummy’s movement was well-controlled, and measures taken from the dummy indicated a low risk of any significant injuries,” the IIHS said in a statement. “The dummy’s head made good contact with the front airbag, which stayed in position during the crash. The side airbag deployed with enough forward coverage to protect the head from contact with side structure and outside objects.”
The 2014 Impreza also received high scores in each of the tests, however the IIHS acknowledges significant differences in the newest WRX to warrant a separate round of tests.
Subaru now has six models that have earned 2014 safety awards from IIHS, three with Top Safety Pick designations and three with Top Safety Pick Plus achievements. The latter requires the same level of crashworthiness, along with some form of active front-crash prevention technology.
Leave a Reply