Best Crash Test Ratings for 2015 Model New Cars

Each year hundreds crash tests are performed on new vehicles to determine how well they protect the driver and passengers in a crash.

These tests now include a rating for a vehicles front crash prevention systems. These high tech safety systems warn the driver of the vehicle by audio or visual stimulation and/or brake automatically to avoid or soften a front end collision.

Each time a new vehicle or year model is introduced to the market it is tested on its crashworthiness, only the best and highest rated vehicles are presented with awards.

The International Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) conducts crash tests to determine how well a vehicle will protect its occupants if involved in a collision. You can read more detail on how the IIHS rates a vehicle during a collision and how they perform their controlled crash tests here. The vehicles with the best test results receive the Top Safety Pick or Top Safety Pick + award.

To be awarded the 2015 Top Safety Pick, the vehicle tested must get good or acceptable ratings in the small overlap front test, moderate overlap side, front, head restraint and roof strength tests.

To qualify for the 2015 Top Rated Safety Pick +, the vehicle must meet all the above criteria plus receive a superior or advance rating for its front crash prevention system. The only way for a vehicle to receive this award is for it to be equipped with this additional technology. If the vehicle is not equipped, it may still qualify for the Top Safety Pick award.

NOTE: Vehicles that are larger and heavier in weight do influence the protection of the occupants inside the vehicle in a serious or high speed crash. So generally speaking a heavier, larger vehicle will provide more protection than a lighter, smaller car. So, a smaller vehicle that’s been awarded a Top Safety Pick or PLUS award does not automatically mean it offers more or better protection than a bigger vehicle that didn’t earn an award.

If you’re considering the purchase of a new car or truck and safety is important to you. Take a look at all of the award winning 2015 model new cars with the best crash test ratings below to help in your research before making a final decision.

See the IIHS Top Safety Pick winners for 2016 here.

Best Crash Test Ratings for 2015 New Car Models

Source: International Institute for Highway Safety

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When negotiating the price of a new car or truck, it’s important to know the dealer invoice price and what other people are paying for the same vehicle in your local area. Otherwise, you won’t know what a good price is to pay for the vehicle. I highly recommend using an online referral service such as Ryde Shopper and Motor Trend, their quotes will automatically include any discounts or cash-back incentives currently available.

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