The recent launch of the Fiat 500 into the US has had a boost after the Mexican-built supermini received a top rating from an influential safety group.
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety said the 2012 500 Sport two-door had earned good marks for front, side rollover and rear crash evaluations.
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Results reflect performance in crashes that would occur with similar-sized vehicles. The only other mini car to earn similar scores was the Ford Fiesta.
The top score for front crash resistance was earned during a retest in August after Fiat/Chrysler modified front seating to make it more secure, the IIHS said.
The 500 is the key player in the Fiat brand’s return to the US while Fiat-owned Chrysler is counting on it and other fuel-efficient vehicles to boost its lineup, currently dominated by pickups and other light trucks.
The IIHS assesses a range of models each year. Underwritten by the insurance industry, the institute’s ratings are closely followed by automakers, consumer groups and safety regulators.
