2019 Hyundai Santa Fe, Subaru Ascent Earn Top Safety Pick+ Award

Two new crossovers—the 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe and Subaru Ascent—have earned the Top Safety Pick+ award from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.

Both models scored “Good” ratings in all crash categories. This includes the new passenger-side small overlap test, which replicates what happens when the right corner of a vehicle hits a tree, pole, or other object at 40 mph.

The crossovers also nabbed top ratings in front crash prevention. The autobrake systems of the two vehicles were able to avoid collisions in both 12-mph and 25-mph tests. Headlight ratings also came in “Good” for both models, but these scores only apply to LED headlights fitted to higher trim levels. The halogen lights on lower trims of the Santa Fe receive a score of “Marginal,” while the halogen lights on lower Ascents are rated “Poor.”

To qualify for the Top Safety Pick+ award, vehicles must earn good ratings in the driver-side small overlap front, moderate overlap front, side, roof strength, and head restraint tests. They must also receive a minimum score of “Acceptable” on the passenger-side small overlap test, an “Advanced” or “Superior” rating in front crash prevention, and a “Good” headlight rating on the best available system for each model.

Despite the Santa Fe’s smaller size for 2019, IIHS classifies both vehicles as midsize SUVs. Others in the category to earn the agency’s top award include the 2019 Honda Pilot and 2019 Kia Sorento.

For 2018, Subaru has earned eight Top Safety Pick awards, seven with the “+” designation and one without. Hyundai’s tally is now at 10 vehicles, six with the “+” and four without.

Source: IIHS

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