Subaru's Five-Star Safety Status Continues

BAULKHAM HILLS, AUSTRALIA – August 28, 2009: Subaru has maintained a five-star safety rating across its entire range, with new generation Liberty and Outback scoring highly in the latest round of crashworthiness testing by the Australasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP).

Both new Liberty and Outback were awarded 34.8 out of a possible 37 points, gaining a five-star rating for occupant safety.

In addition to dual front, side and curtain airbags, both models also introduce a driver’s knee airbag.

Electronic stability control is standard across the Subaru range.

Nick Senior, Managing Director, Subaru Australia, said: “Safety is an absolute priority at Subaru.

“All our Australian specification cars are crash tested locally. We don’t rely on overseas results, which may not necessarily reflect local spec and may not even have been conducted using right hand drive cars.”

He added: “Subaru has consistent safety features across its entire range, making it an easy choice for safety-conscious customers. Our own research indicates safety as one of the top three considerations for our customers.

“We’re pleased that this is reflected in sales, so it’s true that in our case, safety sells.”

In ANCAP tests, cars are subjected to a frontal offset crash test and a side impact test.

To be considered for the coveted five-star status, they also have to undergo an optional pole test.

ANCAP Chair, Lauchlan McIntosh, congratulated Subaru for “its industry-leading five-star fleet with the new Liberty and Outback maintaining their top ratings.”

ANCAP is supported by all Australian and New Zealand motoring clubs, all Australian state governments, the New Zealand government, the Victorian Transport Accident Commission, NRMA Insurance and the FIA Foundation.

For the full details of ANCAP’s testing, see: www.ancap.com.au