One of the world’s foremost automotive safety authorities, The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has awarded the BMW X3 and X5 the top rating in each of its series of crash tests, earning both vehicles the Institute’s coveted Top Safety Pick Award.

The awards confirm that BMW Sport Activity vehicles provide the best levels of occupant safety thanks to advanced body engineering and safety systems.

BMW has a history of building safe Sport Activity Vehicles.

During testing in 2000, the first generation BMW X5 earned a TOP SAFETY PICK, and was judged not only the best in the burgeoning SUV class, but also the best ever vehicle tested by the IIHS at that point. Since that time BMW has continued to garner praise from the IIHS for its vehicles.

The Institute rates vehicles “Good,” “Acceptable,” “Marginal” or “Poor” based on performance in high-speed Frontal Offset and Side Impact crash tests as well as an evaluation of the vehicle’s Rear Crash Protection/Head Restraints, which protect against neck injuries in rear impact crashes.

In order for a vehicle to become a Top Safety Pick, it must earn “Good” ratings in all three Institute tests. Additionally, as of 2007, winning vehicles must also offer Electronic Stability Control (or as BMW calls it Dynamic Stability Control) – a feature that both the BMW X3 and X5 offer with enhancements over previous models.

“We are proud to receive the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety’s TOP SAFETY PICK for both the 2008 BMW X3 and X5,” said Tom Purves, Chairman and CEO, BMW (US) Holding Corp.

“Achieving these top ratings is evidence of the excellent safety and crash protection provided by the X3 and X5 SAVs and is a true testament to BMW’s dedication to providing a safe and superior driving experience,” Mr Purves said.