ARLINGTON, VA — Results of crash tests for six SUVs show frontal crash protection has improved. However, the tests reveal significant differences in how well SUVs protect people in serious side crashes.
Among the worst performers in the side test are the Jeep Grand Cherokee and Chevrolet Trail Blazer even though both are equipped with standard side airbags. The front and side tests recently were conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) to evaluate how well midsize SUVs protect people in the two most common kinds of serious crashes. Rear crash protection ratings for these models were released earlier this year.
Five of the six SUVs earn the top rating of good in the Institute’s 40 mph frontal offset test. The Chevrolet Trail Blazer is the only one to earn an acceptable rating for frontal crash protection. Based on overall results of front, side, and rear tests the Trail Blazer is the lowest rated current model midsize SUV tested by the Institute.
Performance varied considerably in the side test that replicates a 31 mph crash in which the striking vehicle is another SUV or pickup. Two Nissan SUVs, the Pathfinder and Xterra, are rated good for protection in side impacts, but only when they’re equipped with optional side airbags. Without the option, these SUVs earn marginal ratings. The Toyota 4Runner equipped with standard side airbags is rated good, the Ford Explorer with standard side airbags earns an acceptable rating, and the Jeep Grand Cherokee and Chevrolet Trail Blazer, both with standard side airbags, are marginal.
“The performance of some of these models in the side test was surprising,” says Institute senior vice president David Zuby. “SUVs should have an advantage in side crashes because the driver and passengers ride higher up than in cars. People often think they’re safer in one of these vehicles, but many cars hold up better than some of these midsize SUVs in this test.”
Related Items:
