Honda Leads All Brands with Four 2014 IIHS Top Safety Pick+ Models

Reading, USA, 01/02/2014 / SubmitMyPR /

Many automakers were already scrambling to meet the stringent standards for a Top Safety Pick+ from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) when the honor was introduced last year, and now its crash-safety criteria has become even more comprehensive. With each 2014 model required to achieve a "basic" rating in a new front-crash-prevention evaluation, just 22 vehicles were named a 2014 Top Safety Pick+. The IIHS presented Honda with more Top Safety Pick+ designations than any other brand this year, recognizing the 2014 Honda Civic Sedan, the Accord Coupe and Sedan, and the Odyssey minivan.

Beyond offering an adequate front-crash-prevention system, a Top Safety Pick+ vehicle must achieve the top rating of "good" in the IIHS' moderate-overlap front, side, roof-strength and head-restraint crash tests, as well as earn at least an "acceptable" rating in the small-overlap front test that was added last year. The 2014 Honda Accord, Civic Hybrid and Odyssey are available with a Forward Collision Warning system that uses either a camera or radar to detect potential collisions ahead and then alerts the driver with audible and visual cues. In addition to the auto brand's four Top Safety Pick+ awards, the 2014 Honda Civic Coupe was honored with a Top Safety Pick designation.

"The Top Safety Pick+ started last year as a way to recognize models that can protect against frontal impacts that hit closer to the sides of the vehicle, and now the award requires that cars be able to help prevent collisions like that from happening in the first place," said Frank McLaughlin, general manager of Honda Gallery, a Greater Boston Honda dealership. "Whether it's structural design, airbags or preventative technology, Honda is constantly looking for ways to improve safety, even if it's something that's not yet tested by the IIHS."

For added peace of mind when drivers change lanes, the updated 2014 Honda Civic went on sale earlier this month with a newly available LaneWatch blind-spot monitor. Other new optional technologies include a seven-inch Display Audio capacitive touchscreen, the next-generation HondaLink infotainment system and Smart Entry with Push Button start. Both the 2014 Civic Coupe and Sedan boast improved fuel economy when outfitted with a new continuously variable transmission (CVT), while the Civic Coupe benefits from refreshed styling, including a more aggressive front end, a new rear bumper and redesigned tail lamps.

About Honda Gallery:
Massachusetts drivers have come to rely on Honda Gallery for all their motoring needs, which are consistently met thanks to their Greater Boston Honda dealership's dedication to customer service. Featuring an extensive inventory of new and used models ranging from the Honda Accord and Civic to the Odyssey minivan, Honda Gallery has the selection and expertise needed to find the right model for each shopper. Whether it is for a test-drive or a prompt and thorough repair, visit them at 88-98 Walkers Brook Dr. in Reading, MA, call them at 877-554-6301 or find them online at www.thehondagallery.com. Honda Gallery can also be liked on Facebook at www.facebook.com/HondaGallery.