With only 22 models on the PLUS list this year, the IIHS is stepping up the requirements. "Top Safety Pick PLUS" cars must pass crash tests from front, side, head restraint, roof and small overlap. The "small overlap crash test" is new to the test this year. It simulates a driver's side crash into a pole. Vehicles that pass these ratings with a good or above are considered eligible for the list.
The 2014 "Top Safety Pick PLUS" list includes (in alphabetical order) the Acura MDX and RLX; the Ford Fusion; Honda Accord, Civic Hybrid and Odyssey; the Infiniti Q50; the Lincoln MKZ; the Mazda 3, Mazda 6 and CX-5; the Mercedes-Benz M-Class; the Mitsubishi Outlander; the Subaru Forester, Legacy and Outback; the Toyota Highlander and Prius; and the Volvo S60, S80 and XC60.
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