Hey everyone, are you considering the 2022 Subaru Crosstrek? It's a popular choice, right? Before you make a decision, it's natural to wonder about its safety. After all, nobody wants to drive around in a car that isn't safe! So, let's dive deep into the safety aspects of the 2022 Subaru Crosstrek, covering everything from crash test results to the advanced safety features that Subaru packs into this compact SUV. We'll break down the important stuff so you can make an informed choice. Ready? Let's get started!

Crash Test Ratings: Putting Safety to the Test

When it comes to vehicle safety, crash test ratings are a big deal. They give us a clear picture of how a car performs in different types of collisions. The 2022 Subaru Crosstrek has undergone rigorous testing by two major organizations: the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). These organizations put vehicles through a series of simulated crashes to assess their ability to protect occupants. So, how did the Crosstrek fare?

The IIHS awarded the 2022 Crosstrek the prestigious Top Safety Pick+ award. This is the highest rating an IIHS-tested vehicle can receive, and it means the Crosstrek excelled in all crashworthiness tests, including the challenging small overlap front crash test. This test replicates what happens when the front corner of a vehicle collides with another vehicle or object, which is a common and dangerous type of crash. Earning this top rating shows Subaru's commitment to building safe vehicles. The Crosstrek also received good ratings for its headlights, which is a crucial aspect of safety, especially at night.

Then there's the NHTSA. They gave the 2022 Crosstrek an overall safety rating of five stars, which is the highest rating they offer. This five-star rating covers frontal crash tests, side crash tests, and rollover resistance. The NHTSA's testing involves simulated crashes that assess how well the vehicle protects occupants in different scenarios. The Crosstrek’s top scores in these tests are a testament to its robust construction and safety features. So, both the IIHS and NHTSA ratings paint a very positive picture of the 2022 Subaru Crosstrek's safety performance in the event of a crash. This should give you some peace of mind, right?

IIHS Crashworthiness Tests

The IIHS conducts a series of crashworthiness tests to evaluate how well a vehicle protects its occupants in a crash. These tests include:

• Small overlap front: This test simulates a frontal crash where only a small portion of the vehicle's front end hits an object, like a tree or another car. This test is particularly challenging and is designed to assess how well the vehicle structure holds up and how well the airbags and other safety systems work to protect the driver and passengers.
• Moderate overlap front: This test simulates a frontal crash where a larger portion of the vehicle's front end hits an object. The test evaluates the vehicle's structural integrity and the effectiveness of its safety systems.
• Side impact: This test simulates a side impact crash, such as when another vehicle hits the side of your car. The test assesses how well the vehicle's side structure and airbags protect occupants.
• Roof strength: This test measures the strength of the vehicle's roof to withstand a rollover. It's important for protecting occupants in a rollover crash.

NHTSA Crash Tests

The NHTSA conducts a variety of crash tests to assess vehicle safety. The main tests include:

• Frontal crash: These tests simulate head-on collisions. The NHTSA rates the vehicle's performance in protecting the driver and front passenger.
• Side crash: These tests simulate side impact collisions. The NHTSA assesses the vehicle's protection of front and rear seat occupants.
• Rollover resistance: This test measures the vehicle's stability and how likely it is to roll over. This is particularly important for taller vehicles like SUVs.

Advanced Safety Features: Subaru's Helping Hand

Beyond crash test ratings, the 2022 Subaru Crosstrek is packed with advanced safety features designed to help prevent accidents in the first place, or mitigate the impact if a crash is unavoidable. Subaru is known for its commitment to safety, and the Crosstrek is a prime example of this. These features provide an extra layer of protection and can make a big difference on the road.

One of the standout features is Subaru's EyeSight Driver Assist Technology. This suite of technologies uses cameras to monitor the road and can assist the driver in various ways. EyeSight includes:

• Adaptive Cruise Control: This system helps maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front, automatically adjusting your speed to keep pace.
• Pre-Collision Braking: This system can detect potential collisions and automatically apply the brakes to help avoid or lessen the impact.
• Lane Departure and Sway Warning: These features alert the driver if they start to drift out of their lane or if the vehicle is swaying, which can be an indication of driver fatigue or inattention.
• Lane Keep Assist: This system helps keep the vehicle centered in its lane by gently steering it back if it starts to drift.

Another important feature is Blind-Spot Detection with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert. This system alerts the driver to vehicles in their blind spots and warns them of approaching traffic when backing up. This is incredibly helpful when changing lanes or reversing out of parking spots. The Crosstrek also includes a rearview camera as standard equipment, providing a clear view of what's behind the vehicle when backing up. This is a game-changer for parking and maneuvering in tight spaces.

Additionally, the 2022 Subaru Crosstrek comes standard with Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC). This system helps maintain vehicle stability by monitoring wheel speed, steering angle, and other factors. If VDC detects a loss of control, it can automatically apply brakes to individual wheels and/or reduce engine power to help the driver maintain control. Automatic Emergency Steering is also included, it can help steer the car away from a potential collision.

Real-World Safety: Putting it All Together

While crash test ratings and advanced safety features are vital, it's also important to consider how these elements translate into real-world safety. The 2022 Subaru Crosstrek's strong performance in crash tests, combined with its impressive array of safety features, gives it a solid safety profile. But what does this mean when you're driving around town or on the highway?

Reduced Risk of Accidents: The advanced safety features, like EyeSight and Blind-Spot Detection, are designed to help prevent accidents. These systems can alert you to potential hazards and even take action to avoid a collision. This means a lower chance of getting into an accident in the first place, which is a huge benefit.

Enhanced Protection in a Crash: Should an accident occur, the Crosstrek's robust construction and comprehensive safety systems are designed to protect occupants. The vehicle's structure is engineered to absorb impact energy, and the airbags and other safety systems are designed to deploy in a timely and effective manner.

Peace of Mind: Knowing that your vehicle has been thoroughly tested and equipped with advanced safety features can provide significant peace of mind. It allows you to focus on the road and enjoy the driving experience, rather than constantly worrying about potential dangers. The Crosstrek gives you confidence behind the wheel.

Common Safety Concerns and How the Crosstrek Addresses Them

Let's address some common safety concerns and how the 2022 Subaru Crosstrek tackles them:

• Rollover Risk: SUVs, because of their higher center of gravity, can be more susceptible to rollovers. However, the Crosstrek's low center of gravity (thanks to the boxer engine) and Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) help to mitigate this risk.
• Visibility: Good visibility is crucial for safety. The Crosstrek has a relatively high seating position, providing a good view of the road. The large windows and available features like automatic high beams further enhance visibility.
• Night Driving: Driving at night can be more dangerous. The Crosstrek's available LED headlights and automatic high beams improve visibility in low-light conditions.
• Driver Distraction: Driver distraction is a major cause of accidents. Subaru's EyeSight system incorporates features like adaptive cruise control and lane keep assist to reduce driver workload and help them stay focused on the road.

Important Considerations and Potential Drawbacks

While the 2022 Subaru Crosstrek boasts impressive safety credentials, here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Safety Technology Limitations: While advanced safety features are helpful, they are not foolproof. Drivers should always remain attentive and responsible behind the wheel. These systems are designed to assist, not replace, the driver.
• Maintenance and Reliability: Regular maintenance is essential to ensure the safety systems function correctly. It's crucial to follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule. Subaru, in general, is known for reliability, but regular upkeep is still vital.
• Road Conditions: Safety is affected by road conditions. Even with advanced safety features, driving in snow, ice, or heavy rain can increase the risk of an accident. Always adjust your driving to suit the conditions.

Conclusion: Is the 2022 Subaru Crosstrek Safe?

So, is the 2022 Subaru Crosstrek safe? The answer is a resounding yes! Based on crash test ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, along with its extensive suite of advanced safety features, the Crosstrek is a safe and reliable choice. It has earned top safety ratings, and its features are designed to prevent accidents and protect occupants in the event of a crash. When you're considering your next vehicle, safety should always be a top priority. The 2022 Subaru Crosstrek is a vehicle that prioritizes safety, giving you and your passengers peace of mind on every journey. This makes it an excellent choice for anyone who values safety in a compact SUV.

Remember, while the Crosstrek offers excellent safety features, safe driving habits are paramount. Always buckle up, obey traffic laws, and stay focused on the road. Enjoy your ride!