2013 Hyundai Elantra sedan earns IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK+

One of only six small cars to receive the Institute's Highest Award

MARKHAM, ON, Aug. 9, 2013 /CNW/ - In one of the most rigorous tests of vehicle safety, the 2013 Hyundai Elantra sedan earned the US-based Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's (IIHS) TOP SAFETY PICK+. The Elantra sedan was one of only six small cars to receive the highest honor from IIHS. In addition to the Elantra sedan, the 2013 Sonata, Equus, Genesis, Tucson and Santa Fe Sport have all earned IIHS's TOP SAFETY PICK.

IIHS rates vehicles in a moderate overlap front crash, small overlap front crash, side impact and rollover test, plus evaluates seat/head restraints for protection against neck injuries in rear impacts. Winners of the TOP SAFETY PICK+ award must earn good ratings for occupant protection in 4 out of 5 evaluations and no less than acceptable in the fifth test. The "plus" indicates a good or acceptable performance in the small overlap test.

"Good side curtain airbag coverage in the Elantra helped the car earn an acceptable rating in the small overlap front test," said David Zuby, chief research officer, IIHS. "Having six small cars qualify for the Institute's highest safety award broadens the choices for consumers looking to buy a small car."

"Hyundai is committed to providing its customers with the industry's best safety features across our entire lineup," said Steve Kelleher, President and CEO of Hyundai Auto Canada. "Elantra's designation as a TOP SAFETY PICK+ positions it as a leader in the segment and a great choice for consumers looking for a compact car."

To keep drivers as safe as possible, Elantra, the 2012 Canadian and North American Car of the Year, has a suite of active and passive safety features. Its Vehicle Stability Management (VSM) system optimally manages the ESC (Electronic Stability Control) and the Motor-Driven electric Power Steering (MDPS) to help maintain vehicle control.

Elantra offers six airbags, including dual front, front seat-mounted side-impact, and front and rear side curtain airbags. Elantra also features a state-of-the-art braking package with four-wheel disc brakes and an Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) including Brake Assist, which provides maximum braking force when a panic stop is detected.

In terms of passive safety, the Elantra has strong unibody construction, along with front and rear crumple zones. The rear doors also have internal dual beams, unlike some of its competitors.

Hyundai Auto Canada, established in 1983 and headquartered in Markham, Ontario, is a subsidiary of Hyundai Motor Company of Korea. Hyundai vehicles are distributed throughout Canada by Hyundai Auto Canada and are sold and serviced through 210 dealerships nationwide.

SOURCE: Hyundai Auto Canada Corp.