Audi Q5, Volkswagen CC Named IIHS Top Safety Picks

Audi’s Q5 small SUV and Volkswagen’s CC midsize sedan – both new for 2009 – have earned the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety’s highest crash-test distinction, Top Safety Pick. To earn Top Safety Pick status, IIHS requires a vehicle to pass front, side and rear tests with its best rating, Good, and come standard with an electronic stability system.

The Q5’s closest competitors also earned Top Safety Pick status, including the Acura RDX, BMW X3 and Infiniti EX35. Some of the Volkswagen CC’s competition has also earned the distinction, including the Acura TL, Hyundai Genesis sedan and Infiniti G37.