[bw77]

I read this article about the IIHS top safety picks for 2010:

http://www.iihs.org/news/rss/pr111809.html

Under Midsize cars it lists:

"Chevrolet Malibu built after October 2009"

I looked at the IIHS list for 2009, and the Malibu is not mentioned.

What changes were made to the Malibu after Oct, 2009 to make it a safer car?

 

[bandit]

I was about to post this exact same question. I think this means the 2010-year models, but I'm not aware of any safety enhancements.

 

[malibumom]

I third this question. I heard this and wanted to know also what updates they have done.

 

[bballr4567]

As far as I could tell, there was nothing updated. Unless it was something under the skin none of the actual safety features have changed between the years.

 

[Pizza Man]

Perhaps, it has something to do with a new method of testing that the earlier models didn't undergo???

 

[bandit]

But *all* the cars would be subject to that. That is, only the 2010 models were tested this way. So why is the Malibu singled out with a specific production date?

 

[bballr4567]

Apparently the only way to contact them if you arent a member of the press is to write an old fashioned letter. Might just do that tomorrow when I get home from school.

 

[bandit]

I think I have found the answer: Headrests.

http://blogs.thecarconnection.com/marty-blog/1038556_iihs-picks-the-safest-new-vehicles-for-2010

On the other hand, better head restraints allowed the 2010 Chevrolet Malibu to obtain the Institute’s highest designation. And as we’ve previously reported, improved head restraints also allowed the 2010 Chrysler Sebring, 2010 Dodge Avenger and Journey, and 2010 Jeep Patriot to earn the Top Safety Pick designation for the first time.

 

[malibumom]

Interesting, thanks for finding the answer.