New CTS earns IIHS top rating

In news that will be all the more important when folks that aren't ready for it start gunning their new 550hp CTS-Vs around...the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has just given the new CTS its highest rating of 'Top Safety Pick'. The new CTS earned the highest ratings in front, side, and rear impacts as well as by having standard stability control in Cadillacs StabiliTrak system. Congrats to GM and Cadillac for earning this extremely rare award. Read all about it below: DETROIT – Cadillac’s new 2008 CTS sports sedan, already a hit with critics and luxury consumers, today earned the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety’s Top Safety Pick for 2008. The award results from CTS earning the Institute’s highest ratings in front, side and rear crash testing, as well as standard application of Stabilitrak electronic stability control system, which can help drivers avoid crashes. The CTS is one of only three large luxury cars to earn this designation. “All luxury cars should perform as well as the CTS. It’s a leader in its class for safety,” said Institute President Adrian Lund. In 2007, the Institute toughened the Top Safety Pick award criteria by requiring electronic stability control, which can help drivers maintain vehicle control, particularly in severe conditions such as wet or icy surfaces, or during emergency maneuvers. “IIHS is one of the top authorities on vehicle safety, making this award particularly meaningful for, and trusted by, consumers,” said Jim Taylor, Cadillac general manager. “As the new 2008 CTS wins praise from industry experts, media and consumers, it is a testament to our team’s comprehensive mission to make this car desirable in every facet and detail.” Since the 2008 CTS debuted in September, sales have increased 59.5%. CTS has received wide critical acclaim, highlighted by earning Motor Trend’s 2008 Car of the Year Award and selections on both Car and Driver magazine’s 10Best List and the finalist list for North American Car of the Year. For more information on the Top Safety Pick award, visit www.IIHS.org