Subaru’s new B9 Tribeca – which goes on sale in the UK this November – has been awarded top crash test ratings by America’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

The US-built SUV scored an outstanding 5-stars for both front and side crash-protection – the maximum achievable.

These tests are based on the risk of driver and passenger head and chest injury in a frontal collision and chest injury for front and rear seat passengers in a side impact.

In addition, Subaru’s new flagship also performed with distinction in the tough roll-over tests, earning 4-stars.

The BMW X5-sized Tribeca was given a low 16 per cent chance of rolling over and a ‘No-tip’ dynamic test result.

This compares with an average 30 per cent chance of overturning among all US-market SUVs and a range between 12 and 19 per cent for passenger cars.

Subaru (UK) Managing Director, Peter Kinnaird, said; "These excellent results further vindicate Subaru’s adherence to the low-centre-of gravity ‘boxer’ engine which enhances stability and therefore safety. Our symmetrical all-wheel drive system also adds to the driver’s overall feeling of confidence.

"We look forward to introducing the new B9 Tribeca in the autumn as it will not only enhance Subaru’s move into the sport-utility sector but answer the needs of customers wanting a large, practical 7-seat SUV but with great handling and a sporty drive."

To be exhibited at the forthcoming 76^th Geneva International Motor Show (Subaru Press Conference – 4pm, 28 February), the B9 Tribeca features a 3.0 litre 245 PS six-cylinder horizontally-opposed engine, five-speed automatic gearbox and full-time symmetrical all-wheel drive and Subaru Vehicle Dynamics Control (SVDC).

It went on sale in the USA, Canada and Chile last year and has proven so successful that exports will begin during 2006 to Europe, Australia and Japan.

UK Tribecas will be available in two 5-seat trim levels and one 7-seat luxury-spec version. Prices will be announced during March when dealers will open their order books.

This is the second Subaru safety award in a matter of months as the 2006 Model Year Legacy saloon and Sports Tourer have been given the first-ever ‘Top Safety Pick Gold’ award.

America’s Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) scored the Legacy ‘Good’ in every category – a first for a midsize-class car.