Audi A4 Gets 5 Stars in NHTSA's New Car Assessment Program

In addition to boasting better weight distribution, improved handling, a sexy new skin, and more interior room, Audi's new-for-'09 A4 just garnered top five-star crash and rollover ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. NHTSA awarded the A4 five stars in its NCAP, or New Car Assessment Program.

NCAP tests all new vehicles at 5 mph above U.S. crash test requirements, resulting in a 35 mph frontal crash test and a 38.5 mph side crash test. It then awards cars from one to five stars based on their performance in those tests.

For passenger protection, the A4 offers front, side, and side-curtain airbags as standard equipment. And its passive safety feature are also enhanced for '09 with features such as a segment-leading front track width that Audi claims is 2.5 inches wider than the competing BMW, and 1 inch wider than the closest competing Lexus. In addition to better fore/aft weight distrution on Audi's new A4, this widened track increases the vehicle's responsiveness in emergency maneuvers and, therefore, the driver's confidence behind the wheel.

To view more information on A4 crash test performance, go to safercar.org.--Colin Mathews 2009 Audi A4Enlarge PhotoIn addition to boasting better weight distribution, improved handling, a sexy new skin, and more interior room, Audi's new-for-'09 A4 just garnered top five-star crash and rollover ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. NHTSA awarded the A4 five stars in its NCAP, or New Car Assessment Program. NCAP tests all new vehicles at 5 mph above U.S. crash test requirements, resulting in a 35 mph frontal crash test and a 38.5 mph side crash test. It then awards cars from one to five stars based on their performance in those tests. For passenger protection, the A4 offers front, side, and side-curtain airbags as standard equipment. And its passive safety feature are also enhanced for '09 with features such as a segment-leading front track width that Audi claims is 2.5 inches wider than the competing BMW, and 1 inch wider than the closest competing Lexus. In addition to better fore/aft weight distrution on Audi's new A4, this widened track increases the vehicle's responsiveness in emergency maneuvers and, therefore, the driver's confidence behind the wheel. To view more information on A4 crash test performance, go to safercar.org.--Colin Mathews