Only new Accord is perfect in crash tests

Five other models had 5-star scores on new safety evaluation
The Honda Accord is the only vehicle to get a perfect score under the government's updated crash-rating system.

The 2011 Accord received an overall score of five stars and also got five stars in all three subcategories: frontal crash, side crash and rollover.

"It reflects a commitment to safety that Honda has had for a long time," said Ron Lietzke, a Honda spokesman. "We have invested a lot toward this commitment because it is so important to our customers."

The Accord is Honda's top-selling vehicle. Most of the Accords sold in North America are built in Marysville. Honda's safety testing takes place at the research and development center in Raymond.

Five other vehicles also received an overall score of five stars: the BMW 5 Series, Buick Enclave, Chevrolet Traverse, GMC Acadia and Hyundai Sonata. But each fell short of a perfect score in at least one category.

About 40 vehicles were tested under the new standards.

"More stars equal safer cars," said Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood when he introduced the system last month. "With our upgraded Five-Star Safety Ratings System, we're raising the bar on safety. Through new tests, better crash data and higher standards, we are making the safety ratings tougher and more meaningful for consumers."

The new rating system involves more-rigorous testing and provides customers with more detailed information, the Transportation Department said.

Drivers can see the details by going to www.safercar.gov/Safety+Ratings.

Source;
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