cars news 10: 2017 Audi Q7 Named TSP+ Winner by IIHS

The 2017 Audi Q7 has earned a Top Safety Pick+ award from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.

The second-generation Q7 earned top scores in all five crash categories, including the difficult small overlap test. So far, it’s the only vehicle of its kind to win the 2016 TSP+ award, but that may be because IIHS doesn’t routinely test large SUVs. Audi nominated the Q7 for the award and paid for the models that were crash-tested.

In fact, the Q7 is the first large SUV to go through the small overlap test. The previous Q7 earned “Good” scores in three crash test areas, but IIHS didn’t record small overlap test or roof strength test results. Thus, the old model didn’t receive any honors from IIHS.

Along with top marks in five crash test areas, the 2017 Audi Q7 also nabbed a “Superior” rating in front crash prevention technology. The model boasts forward collision warning as well as autobrake technology from its standard pre sense city feature.

To earn a 2016 TSP+ award — the highest award given out by IIHS — candidates must score top ratings in all five crash tests and an “Advanced” or “Superior” rating in front crash prevention technology. The rules have tightened from last year.

Source: IIHS