A sports car is defined as a vehicle designed for increased performance and agile handling. The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety determines how well vehicles protect occupants in a crash. After extensive testing the vehicles, divided by category, are given a safety rating. These are the ten safest sports cars as tested by the IIHS. All received the title of Top Safety Pick.
Chrysler 200
The Chrysler 200 earned a Top Safety Pick PLUS IIHS rating. The mid-size convertible 200 is an update to the Sebring model and is classified by the IIHS as a mid-size moderately priced car. The 200 comes equipped with side, front and rear airbags as well as torso airbags. It received a 4-star rating by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. In crash tests, leg and foot injuries were minimal and the vehicle showed good results in side impacts and roof strength.
Fiat 500
The Fiat 500 is a sub-compact city car and is rated by the IIHS as a minicar. The hatchback has seven airbags total, including those for knees. It includes an ESP, or Electronic Stability Program, Hydraulic Brake Assistance (HBA) and Anti-slip Regulation (ASR). It received 5 stars by EuroNCAP (European New Car Assessment Programme).
Honda CR-Z
The CR-Z is a compact hybrid coupe, classified by the IIHS as a “small car.” The vehicle features side and front curtain airbags, as well as anti-lock brakes. Standard greasepaint tests during crash simulation showed the driver’s head was protected from blunt impact by the side airbags.
Hyundai Genesis
The Hyundai Genesis is a sports sedan designed to compete with models such as the BMW 5-series and Mercedes E-Class. It is listed as a large luxury car by the IIHS. The vehicle features front and rear side airbags, Brake Assist and traction control. In crash tests, measures indicated low risk for significant injury.
Kia Forte
The Forte is a compact car available in coupe, sedan and hatchback styles. The IIHS classifies it as a small car. It features anti-lock brakes and side, front and rear airbags. In a crash test, measures from the legs, neck and chest indicated low risk of regional injuries.
Nissan Altima
The Altima is a mid-size car and the overall second-best selling in America. It is listed as a mid-size moderately priced car. It features front seat torso airbags, rear head curtain airbags and Electronic Stability Control. The Altima received a Top Safety Pick PLUS rating from the IIHS.
Scion FR-S
The rear-wheel drive vehicle, manufactured by Toyota, has a 6-speed transmission and flat boxer engine. It is in the category of small cars. It comes with Smart Stop technology, Brake Assist and traction control. In crash testing, frontal and side airbags protected the driver’s head against harsh impact.
Scion tC
The Scion tC is a compact sports car classified as a small car by the IIHS. The vehicle allows dual stage control to release airbags depending on the weight of the passenger. The 2013 model features Vehicle Stability Control, anti-lock brakes and Brake Assist.
Subaru BRZ
The Japanese sport coupe is classified as a small car. It provides an Anti-lock Braking System, Brake Assist and Electronic Brake-force Distribution.
Volkswagen GTI
With its 200-horsepower engine, fast-shifting transmission and electromechanical steering system, the GTI is classified as a small car. It features six airbags, Electronic Stability Control and an Intelligent Crash Response System. Its sport suspension allows for better handling and turning.
Many auto owners have a goal in mind when shopping for a new car. Some prefer style or power, while others only care about safety, while others are primarily concerned about the price of auto insurance to insure their new car. With the 2013 model inspections complete, there is no need to compromise on any of these factors. There are vehicles that provide strength, flare and safety. The bonus lies in that many of them happen to be affordable as well.
