2012 Chevrolet Sonic Earns IIHS Top Safety Pick

To earn the award, a vehicle must receive the top rating of Good in front, side, rear and rollover crash tests and have an electronic stability system, which is now a required safety feature on all 2012 vehicles. To pass IIHS’ roof-strength test, a vehicle’s roof must be able to withstand the force of four times the vehicle’s weight. The Sonic can withstand 5.37 times its own weight.

The score is a marked improvement over the Chevrolet Aveo, which the Sonic replaces. That model had an Acceptable frontal score and Marginal ratings in the side impact and roof-strength tests. The Aveo had front- and side-impact airbags but no side curtain airbags, and antilock brakes were optional, not standard. The Sonic has 10 airbags, including rear side-impact airbags and dual knee airbags in the front row.

The 2012 Chevrolet Sonic hasn’t been tested by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, whose crash tests include more side-impact test data.

The Sonic went on sale this month.