- Subaru is the only manufacturer with the IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK for all models for six years running (2010-2015).
- With the addition of the 2016 WRX, Subaru now has six models that have earned the IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK+ including the 2015 Legacy, Outback, Forester, Impreza and XV Crosstrek models when equipped with optional EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology.
The 2016 WRX achieved the highest possible rating of ‘Good’ in the Institute’s crashworthiness evaluations of front small overlap, front moderate overlap, side impact, roof crush and rear impact. The vehicle also received a ‘Superior’ rating in the Institute’s front crash avoidance testing.
“Safety is a hallmark of the Subaru brand,” said Thomas J. Doll, president and chief operating officer, Subaru of America, Inc., “and every year we continue to innovate and improve the safety of all our vehicles. This award is a testament to our commitment of providing customers with the highest level of safety standards.”
The rally-bred WRX is powered by a 268 hp 2.0-liter turbocharged boxer four-cylinder engine and is priced at $26,595. New features available on the 2016 WRX include Blind Spot Detection/ Rear Cross Traffic Alert System with Lane Change Assist, as well as EyeSight ® with Adaptive Cruise Control, Pre-Collision Braking and Lane Departure Warning. Now standard on all WRX models is the latest STARLINK™ touch-screen multimedia system with support for on-screen Pandora®, Aha™, iHeart® Radio, and Stitcher™ apps from your smartphone. Premium and Limited trims add new 18-inch alloy wheels and front suspension enhancements.
Through September 2015, Subaru has sold 428,702 vehicles, including 25,151 WRX models. This marks the 46th consecutive month of sales growth for Subaru. July 2015 was the best sales month for WRX in Subaru’s history with 3,716 vehicles sold.
To win 2015 TOP SAFETY PICK, a vehicle must have “Good” ratings in all four tests of high-speed front and side crash tests, a rollover test, and evaluations of seat/head restraints for protection against neck injuries in rear impacts. In addition, “Good” or “Acceptable” performance in a small overlap front test introduced in 2012 is also required. The same level of performance in those tests, along with an “Advanced” or “Superior” rating for front crash prevention, is required for the higher accolade, 2015 TOP SAFETY PICK+.