Subaru Sweeps Safety Awards: 2026 Forester, Ascent, and Outback Earn IIHS Top Safety Pick+ Honors

When it comes to protecting what matters most—your family, your adventures, and your peace of mind—few brands match Subaru’s relentless focus on safety. That commitment just received powerful validation from one of the most respected independent safety organizations in the world.

On March 24, 2026, Subaru of America announced that the 2026 Subaru Forester, Ascent, and Outback have all earned the prestigious IIHS Top Safety Pick+ (TSP+) award under the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety’s toughest-ever testing standards.

This is big news, especially because the IIHS raised the bar significantly for 2026.

What Makes the 2026 IIHS Criteria So Tough?

For the first time, earning a Top Safety Pick+ requires a “Good” rating in the updated moderate overlap front crash test. This new test includes a rear-seat dummy to better evaluate protection for backseat passengers—something that has historically been a weak spot across the industry.

The criteria also demand stronger performance in:

• Vehicle-to-vehicle crash prevention
• Pedestrian detection and avoidance
• Headlights, seat belt reminders, and more

In other words, these aren’t easy awards to win anymore. Subaru’s three flagship models cleared the higher bar with flying colors.

The Winning Lineup

Here’s what earned the Top Safety Pick+ designation for 2026:

• 2026 Subaru Forester (including Wilderness and Hybrid trims) — Now with 20 consecutive years of IIHS Top Safety Pick or Top Safety Pick+ recognition. That’s an incredible streak of safety leadership in the compact SUV segment.
• 2026 Subaru Ascent — Subaru’s capable 3-row family hauler continues to prove it’s one of the safest ways to travel with kids, gear, and everyone in between.
• 2026 Subaru Outback (including Wilderness) — The legendary adventure wagon earns TSP+ status once again, showing that rugged capability and top-tier safety can absolutely go hand-in-hand.

As of March 2026, Subaru has now accumulated 78 IIHS Top Safety Pick+ awards since 2013—more than any other brand in that time frame.

Why This Matters to You

Jeff Walters, President and Chief Operating Officer of Subaru of America, put it perfectly:

“Earning IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK+ awards for 2026 considering the enhanced testing criteria is a defining achievement for Subaru. The awards reflect our ongoing commitment to safety and delivering vehicles our customers trust to protect them and their passengers in everyday driving.”

Every 2026 Forester, Ascent, and Outback comes standard with Subaru’s award-winning EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology. This advanced suite includes:

• Advanced Adaptive Cruise Control with Lane Centering
• Pre-Collision Braking and Brake Assist
• Lane Departure and Sway Warning
• Emergency Stop Assist
• And many more active safety features designed to help prevent accidents before they happen

Ready for Your Next Safe Adventure?

The 2026 models are now arriving at Subaru retailers nationwide, with approachable starting MSRPs:

• 2026 Forester: Starting at $29,995
• 2026 Outback: Starting at $34,995
• 2026 Ascent: Starting at $40,795

Whether you’re looking for a nimble daily driver, a rugged all-weather explorer, or a spacious family SUV, these three models deliver confidence-inspiring safety ratings without compromise.

Stop by our showroom today to experience the 2026 Forester, Ascent, or Outback for yourself. Our team would love to show you the latest safety technology, take you on a test drive, and help you find the perfect Subaru for your lifestyle.

Safety isn’t just a feature at Subaru—it’s a promise.

Have questions about the new IIHS ratings or want to compare trims? Leave a comment below or reach out to us directly. We’re here to help!

Meta Description: The 2026 Subaru Forester, Ascent, and Outback just earned IIHS Top Safety Pick+ honors under tougher new testing standards. Learn why Subaru continues to lead in vehicle safety.