DETROIT – Cadillac’s new 2008 CTS sports sedan recently earned the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety’s Top Safety Pick for 2008, the automaker reports.

The award results from CTS earning the Institute’s highest ratings in front, side and rear crash testing, as well as standard application of Stabilitrak electronic stability control system, which can help drivers avoid crashes. The CTS is one of only three large luxury cars to earn this designation.

“All luxury cars should perform as well as the CTS. It’s a leader in its class for safety,” said Institute President Adrian Lund.

In 2007, the Institute toughened the Top Safety Pick award criteria by requiring electronic stability control, which can help drivers maintain vehicle control, particularly in severe conditions such as wet or icy surfaces, or during emergency maneuvers.

Since the 2008 CTS debuted in September, sales have increased 59.5 percent. CTS has received wide critical acclaim, highlighted by earning Motor Trend’s 2008 Car of the Year Award and selections on both Car and Driver magazine’s 10Best List and the finalist list for North American Car of the Year.