Several news agencies have been reporting lately that multiple midsize vehicle models have been receiving some of the best and highest safety scores in federal crash tests.

According to the reports, consumers looking for a reliable and family-friendly car could be in for a treat by looking into some 2013 models. Last year, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration decided to look into its crash test procedures to make the standards stricter than before. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety decided to also change things around by establishing a whole new evaluation tool for all vehicles in order to obtain more details on other types of crashes. Tests like the small-overlap frontal crash tests are teaching automakers a lot about safety and how often their vehicles fail to protect their occupants in certain scenarios.

During the first battery of new tests, several luxury models failed to impress the IIHS and now, automakers are presenting their new vehicles, fully redesigned not only to appeal to new consumers but also to ensure they are being provided with the best safety technology they can get.

The IIHS has recently awarded 12 midsize and entry-level luxury models with their “Top Safety Pick” award, which demonstrates that automakers are being able to respond to the consumer’s necessities concerning new safety features and more reliable vehicles.

Some of the vehicles that obtained these awards include the Chrysler 200, Acura TL, Dodge Avenger, Honda Accord, Ford Fusion, Kia Optima, Subaru Legacy, Nissan Altima, Subaru Outback, Volkswagen Passat, Suzuki Kizashi and Volvo S60.

According to the agency, about 29 vehicles were tested. Only 13 models offer a great level of crash protection after the vehicles were subject to the small-overlap test. Vehicles subject to this test travel at 40 mph into a rigid barrier with only 25 percent of the vehicle’s front end exposed. The portion of the driver’s side strikes the barrier, which is a reenactment of accidents that involve trees or utility poles.

Automakers are using the results of these tests to learn more about how airbags work and how to better design to make them more reliable and effective. Reports show that the vehicles that receive good ratings in the IIHS tests, also performed well in rigid tests concerning seatbelts, airbags and other safety features.

If you are currently shopping for a new family-friendly vehicle that is also safe and you would like to learn more about the safest vehicles according to recent IIHS tests, follow this link.