IIHS safety ratings: Why did they award it to only those vehicles built after 2013 Nov

News releases

Geez from Arlington, VA my backyard....but sure sounds like Toyota has addressed the small overlap crash test?

EDIT- OK yes being discussed here:
The Prius has been updated and those built after November 2013 now get the top rating of Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS. The Camry has also been updated and those built after the same date are a Top Safety Pick.
(see older thread on IIHS crash test)

 

i wonder what they could have done so quickly, without redesigning the whole frame/chassis/etc.?

 

I think they probably were able to reinforce the front bumper beam to deflect the energy of the impact off to the side. If you watch the crash tests of vehicles that perform well vs. those that don't, the two things that seem to happen are that deflection, turning the collision into a glancing blow, and a greatly reinforced a-pillar. I think they could improve those two things quite easily even mid-model year.