Volvo S80 Tops Luxury Side-Impact Crash Testing

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has released its latest side-impact crash-test scores for large sedans. Three of the six models earned the top score of Good, but the BMW 5 Series ended up with a marginal rating, which is just one wrung above poor. Volvo continues to live up to its safety reputation, with the all-new S80 sedan earning Good side-impact scores. Along with its top frontal and rear crash scores, the S80 has now earned IIHS’ highest honor: Top Safety Pick.

The Acura RL and Kia Amanti also earned Good side-impact crash-test scores, while the 2007 Mercedes E-Class and Cadillac STS received Acceptable scores. All of the vehicles were equipped with standard side curtain airbags and front-seat-mounted torso airbags.

Strangely enough, both the STS and E-Class were recently reengineered to earn better crash scores, but the tweaks only resulted in marginal improvements, not enough to move them into the Good category.

Source: IIHS