IIHS new crash test with scary results
 

Some of you guys may have heard about this. It's called the small overlap frontal crash test, it's said to be a common occurrence in real world traffic incidents with a high fatality rate in frontal crashes. Of eleven cars tested only three recieved above "marginal" ratings, the IIHS's second from lowest possible rating. One has to wonder how an AS1 car would do in this kind of crash?

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I don't think it'll push Volvo levels of safety, but I think Subaru's ring-shaped reinforcement structure frame would do a lot to help in a case like this.

The dude in the video was pointing out the S60's beefy frame rail in the front and side, and I think Subaru frames are known for being exceptionally strong.

I don't think it'll be as amazing as some of these bigger cars, but I think it will do well in this test and many others...

Wow at that footwell cave in!

Note to self - dont ever get into a small overlap accident.

makes me want to get a volvo...

I've had two. Boring to drive, but super safe (first Ont got totaled by a driver under the influence). The cars last long, have great turbo charged engines and good design. I think I've had my fill of Volvo though, especially since its been purchased by Geely.

Here's a pic of the AS1's front crash structure. Looks like it has decent bracing where impact would occur in a front overlap collision: https://p.twimg.com/AkcM6OGCIAAx7ma.jpg

+1

If you're about to, and you can't avoid it, hit that car or wall square and center. Maximum energy spread.

Wow - thanks for sharing! Never thought of it until now, but this test approach makes perfect sense. It will be great to see how other cars stack up and how it pushes to make cars safer in the future.

Interested and especially since the IS scored poorly too. Even though the AS1 frame has decent framwork (3 point), I honest don't think this car will do well.

Haha our car doesn't look sturdy at all
especially for a side impact! haha

This seems like a fairly simple problem to solve for the manufacturers. They'll likely beef up the fender areas and footwell areas accordingly. However, seeing the crashes is pretty sobering and intimidating.

It looks like the first thing that barrier's going to hit hard would be the tire. There's not anything that's going to absorb significant force in front of the strut tower.

-Justin