Subaru Safety Takes Center Stage with Three 2026 IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK+ Awards

Safety has long been central to Subaru's identity, and the brand's 2026 lineup has earned another major round of independent recognition. The 2026 Subaru Forester, Ascent and Outback each received the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's highest honor: TOP SAFETY PICK+.

Earning the top designation is especially meaningful because IIHS continues to make its evaluations more demanding. Vehicles must perform well across crashworthiness testing, pedestrian crash prevention and nighttime as well as daytime headlight evaluations.

Three familiar Subaru favorites earn top honors

The Forester, Ascent and Outback serve different kinds of drivers, but all three share a focus on visibility, stability and everyday confidence. The Forester is a practical compact SUV with an easy-to-use shape and spacious cabin. The three-row Ascent is designed for larger families, while the Outback blends SUV capability with the comfortable road manners of a touring vehicle.

For Fairfield and Greater Cincinnati drivers, these models are especially relevant. Families regularly deal with heavy rain, construction traffic, winter conditions and crowded highways. Strong crash protection and driver-assistance performance can provide valuable reassurance in those everyday situations.

What TOP SAFETY PICK+ represents

The IIHS award is not based on a single feature or test. To reach the highest level, a vehicle must demonstrate strong protection in multiple crash scenarios and meet standards for systems intended to help prevent or reduce collisions. Good headlights also play an important role because many serious crashes occur after dark.

Subaru supports that foundation with its EyeSight driver-assistance technology on these models. Depending on model and trim, the system can help monitor traffic movement, support lane positioning and warn the driver when conditions ahead require attention. These technologies are designed to assist an attentive driver, not replace one.

Safety that supports everyday life

Most owners will never experience a laboratory crash test, but they use visibility, braking, headlights and driver-assistance features every time they drive. That is why consistent performance across many areas matters more than one headline number.

At Busam Subaru, we know families want a vehicle that fits their lives and helps protect the people who matter most. The latest IIHS results give Forester, Ascent and Outback shoppers another solid reason to feel confident when choosing their next Subaru.