Side-Crash Safety Varies in Mid-SUVs
Posted on: Thursday, 11 October 2007, 09:00 CDT
Side-crash safety ratings for six SUVs tested by the U.S. Insurance Institute for Highway Safety vary greatly, with side air bags improving safety marks.
The performance of some of these models in the side test was surprising, Institute Senior Vice President David Zuby said Thursday. 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.
In testing in Arlington, Va., simulating a 31 mph side crash with another SUV, the Nissan Pathfinder and Nissan Xterra were rated good for protection but only when equipped with optional side air bags. Without the option, these SUVs earn marginal ratings, the institute said.
The Toyota 4Runner equipped with standard side air bags was rated good, the Ford Explorer with standard side air bags earned an acceptable rating and the Jeep Grand Cherokee and Chevrolet TrailBlazer -- both with standard side air bags -- were rated marginal.
Source: United Press International
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