IIHS Picks Top Safety Vehicle

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has named the 2009 Subaru Forester as the Top Safety Pick for 2008.

According to its selection process, a vehicle must provide overall crash protection that is superior to all other cars in its class, as well as be equipped with electronic stability control, to win the award.

After tests were conducted, the Forester scored the highest marks for rear, side, and offset frontal-impact protection during crashworthiness testing.

IIHS President Adrian Lund said it is important to choose a vehicle that will protect people in many types of crashes.

Crashworthiness evaluations are based on various speeds, depending on the area being tested. Frontal evaluations are based on 40 mph, while rear testing is based on a 20 mph impact.

Other Subaru vehicles that received the highest accolades include the 2008 Impreza, Legacy/Outback, and Tribeca.

Testing by the IIHS is respected throughout the world.