The automotive landscape is constantly evolving, with manufacturers striving to enhance vehicle safety through continuous innovation and rigorous design. For today’s consumers, understanding how well a vehicle protects its occupants in the event of a crash is not just a preference, but a paramount concern. Independent evaluations, such as those meticulously conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), provide invaluable, objective insights, moving beyond mere regulatory compliance to push the boundaries of what constitutes truly comprehensive occupant protection.
In a significant and necessary advancement, the IIHS has recently introduced a more comprehensive side crash test, a crucial evolution from its original protocol established in 2003. This updated test directly addresses critical concerns regarding high-speed crashes, which, as studies have shown, accounted for nearly 23 percent of passenger vehicle occupant deaths in 2019. By employing a heavier barrier traveling at a higher speed—a 4,180-pound barrier at 37 mph, compared to the original’s 3,300 pounds at 31 mph—the new protocol involves 82 percent more energy, simulating more severe and realistic real-world impact scenarios to offer a clearer, more demanding picture of safety.
This in-depth analysis delves into the inaugural results of this crucial second-generation side impact evaluation, focusing specifically on a compilation of small SUVs. We will meticulously examine the performance of several popular models, breaking down their ratings in terms of overall structural integrity and specific injury measures for the head, neck, chest, and pelvis for both driver and rear passengers. Our aim is to empower you, the discerning consumer, with the objective, data-driven information needed to make informed decisions about your next vehicle purchase, emphasizing practical safety implications gleaned from these stringent tests.
1. **2021-2022 Honda HR-V**:The 2021-2022 Honda HR-V unfortunately received an overall “Poor” designation in the updated IIHS side crash test. This result immediately flags significant concerns regarding its protective capabilities when subjected to the more severe impact conditions of the second-generation test protocol. It indicates that the vehicle struggled to provide adequate passive safety under the increased energy of the new barrier.
A primary and deeply concerning area for the HR-V was its performance in structure and safety cage integrity. The vehicle received a “Poor” score in this critical category, indicating that the fundamental framework designed to absorb and distribute crash forces did not hold up adequately. This suggests a potential for greater intrusion into the occupant compartment during a high-energy side collision, which can directly translate to increased injury risk.
Further details from the evaluation highlighted specific occupant injury measures. The Honda HR-V received an “Acceptable” score for chest protection for both the driver and passenger. However, this was regrettably overshadowed by “Marginal” scores for pelvic protection throughout the vehicle, indicating an uneven safety performance across different body regions under the updated side impact criteria.
The “Poor” overall rating for its structure and safety is a significant point of consideration for potential buyers. It suggests that in a severe side impact, the vehicle’s ability to maintain a safe space for its occupants is severely compromised, providing clear transparency for consumers diligently seeking the safest options in the small SUV market.
Car Model Information: 2023 Honda HR-V LX
Name: Honda HR-V
Caption: Honda HR-V 1.5 Advance (RV5)
Aka: Honda ZR-V
Manufacturer: Honda
Production: 1999–2006,2013–present
Class: Subcompact crossover SUV
Layout: Front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout,Front-engine, four-wheel-drive layout
Categories: 2000s cars, 2010s cars, 2020s cars, ASEAN NCAP small off-road, All-wheel-drive vehicles
Summary: The Honda HR-V is a subcompact crossover SUV (B-segment) manufactured and marketed by Honda over three generations.
The first generation HR-V, based on the Honda Logo, was marketed from 1999 to 2006 in Europe, Japan and select Asia-Pacific markets, in either three-door (1999–2003) or five-door (1999–2006) configurations — internally designated GH2 and GH4 respectively.
After a seven-year hiatus, Honda reintroduced the nameplate for the second generation HR-V, based on the third-generation Honda Fit. Production began in late 2013 for the Japanese domestic market as the Honda Vezel (Japanese: ホンダ・ヴェゼル, Hepburn: Honda Vezeru), while production started in 2015 for North America, Australia, Brazil and select Asian markets as the HR-V. Apart from Japan, the model is also sold as the Vezel in China.
For the third-generation model, the nameplate is split between two different vehicles, one for the global market (sold as the Vezel in Japan), and a larger model based on the eleventh-generation Civic destined for North America and China. The latter model is sold outside those markets as the Honda ZR-V.
According to Honda, the name “HR-V” stands for “Hi-rider Revolutionary Vehicle”, while the name “Vezel” is coined from “bezel”, the oblique faces of a cut gem, with the “V” for “vehicle”.
Get more information about: Honda HR-V
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Brand: Honda Model: HR-V
Price: $20,590 Mileage: 45,093 mi.
2. **2021 Lincoln Corsair**:Joining the Honda HR-V at the lower end of the performance spectrum, the 2021 Lincoln Corsair also received an overall “Poor” rating in the IIHS updated side impact test. This outcome positions it among the vehicles that demonstrated significant weaknesses when subjected to the increased energy and speed of the new barrier, providing critical data for consumers evaluating premium small SUV options.
One of the most alarming aspects of the Corsair’s performance was its “Poor” rating for the overall structure and safety cage. This indicates a profound deficiency in the vehicle’s ability to maintain occupant space during the crash, which is arguably the most foundational element of passive safety. Such structural failures can lead to direct contact between occupants and intruding elements, or restrict the effectiveness of crucial safety features like airbags and seatbelts.
Regarding specific occupant protection measures, the Lincoln Corsair achieved a “Good” rating for the rear passengers’ head and neck protection, and a “Good” score for neck safety overall for all occupants. However, head safety for the driver received a “Marginal” score, highlighting an unfortunate inconsistency in protection across seating positions.
The evaluation further revealed “Acceptable-rated protection” for the rear passenger’s chest and pelvis. Conversely, the driver scored “Marginal marks” for protection in those same critical areas. This notable difference in chest and pelvis protection between front and rear occupants suggests that drivers of the 2021 Lincoln Corsair may face higher risks of injury in a side collision.
Car Model Information: 2020 Lincoln Corsair Reserve
Name: Lincoln Corsair
Caption: 2020 Lincoln Corsair
Production: August 2019–present
ModelYears: 2020–present
Manufacturer: Lincoln Motor Company
Assembly: ubl
Designer: Kemal Curić
Class: Compact executive car,Crossover (automobile)
BodyStyle: Sport utility vehicle
Layout: Front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout,Front-engine, four-wheel-drive layout
Platform: Ford C2 platform
Related: Ford Escape#fourth,Ford Bronco Sport
Engine: Petrol engine,Ford EcoBoost engine#2.0 L “Twin-scroll” (2015–),Ford EcoBoost engine#2.3 L,Plug-in hybrid,Ford Duratec engine
Motor: Synchronous motor#Permanent-magnet
Transmission: Automatic transmission
Battery: kwh,lithium-ion
Wheelbase: 2710 mm
Abbr: on
Order: flip
Length: 4608 mm
Width: 2108 mm
Height: 1630 mm
Predecessor: Lincoln MKC
Sp: us
ElectricRange: convert
Charging: SAEJ1772 (3.3nbspkW AC) (Grand Touring)
Categories: 2020s cars, All Wikipedia articles written in American English, Articles with short description, Cars introduced in 2019, Commons category link from Wikidata
Summary: The Lincoln Corsair is a compact luxury crossover marketed and sold by the Lincoln brand of Ford Motor Company since the 2020 model year. It replaced the MKC. Since 2020, the Corsair has been the best-selling vehicle for the Lincoln brand. In August 2025, it was announced that Ford would be discontinuing the Lincoln Corsair after the 2026 model year.
Get more information about: Lincoln Corsair
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Brand: Lincoln Model: Corsair
Price: $28,411 Mileage: 15,973 mi.
Read more about: Critical Safety Alert: Over Half a Million Ford Edge and Lincoln MKX SUVs Recalled for Brake Fluid Leak Risk
3. **2020 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross**:The 2020 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross, the specific model year tested since it skipped 2021, received a “Marginal” overall rating in the IIHS updated side crash test. This places it in a category where performance is neither strong nor severely deficient, but still presents areas of concern that consumers should be acutely aware of. It’s crucial to understand the nuances behind a “Marginal” designation, as it often points to specific and actionable weaknesses in crash protection.
Delving into the specifics, the Eclipse Cross achieved a “Good” rating in both driver and passenger head and neck protection, which is a significant positive indicator for safeguarding these vital and sensitive areas during a side impact. However, this commendable aspect was regrettably tempered by “Marginal” scores for pelvis protection for both driver and passenger, suggesting that while the head and neck are relatively well-shielded, pelvic injuries remain a notable risk in this particular model.
A particularly concerning finding for the 2020 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross was its “Poor” rating for driver chest protection. This makes it a critical outlier, as it was explicitly identified as the “only SUV on the list to receive a Poor rating for driver chest protection.” This specific and severe vulnerability for the driver’s chest is a major safety issue, as serious chest injuries can have profound and lasting consequences.
Finally, the overall structure and safety cage of the 2020 Eclipse Cross was rated as “Marginal.” This assessment indicates that while the vehicle’s structure didn’t completely collapse, it struggled to fully maintain its integrity and optimal occupant space as effectively as higher-rated vehicles. The combination of “Marginal” structural integrity and “Poor” driver chest protection highlights a blend of adequate and significantly concerning safety attributes for this model.
Car Model Information: 2019 Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring Reserve
Name: Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross
Manufacturer: Mitsubishi Motors
ModelCode: GK,GL,YA,YB
Production: October 2017–present
ModelYears: 2018–present
Assembly: unbulleted list
Designer: Norihiko Yoshimine and Atsushi Goto
Class: Compact crossover SUV
BodyStyle: SUV
Layout: unbulleted list
Platform: Mitsubishi GS platform
Related: unbulleted list
Engine: unbulleted list
Powerout: unbulleted list
Abbr: on
Transmission: unbulleted list
Wheelbase: 2670 mm
Length: unbulleted list
Width: 1805 mm
Height: 1685 mm
Weight: unbulleted list
Successor: Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross EV
Categories: 2020s cars, ASEAN NCAP small off-road, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles written in British English, Articles with short description
Summary: The Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross is a compact crossover SUV produced by Japanese automaker Mitsubishi Motors since October 2017. It was previewed by the XR-PHEV and XR-PHEV II concepts, revealed in 2013 and 2015. The production version was first introduced at the 87th Geneva Motor Show in March 2017. It slots between the RVR/ASX/Outlander Sport and Outlander in Mitsubishi’s global crossover lineup.
The diesel variant was launched in June 2019, followed by the PHEV variant in December 2020. The diesel is not available in North America. The name of this vehicle originates from the unrelated compact sports car, the Eclipse. Unlike the original Eclipse, however, the Eclipse Cross is not assembled in the United States as Mitsubishi closed its Diamond-Star Motors plant in Normal, Illinois in February 2016. Instead, the SUV is assembled in Japan, China, and Brazil.
Get more information about: Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross
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Brand: Mitsubishi Model: Eclipse Cross
Price: $20,961 Mileage: 52,000 mi.
Read more about: The 12 Most Boring Crossovers in the Market Right Now: What Critics and Performance Specs Reveal for Enthusiasts.
4. **2021 Hyundai Tucson**:The 2021 Hyundai Tucson, a model that underwent a design and engineering redesign for that year, earned a “Marginal” rating in the IIHS updated side crash test. This rating signals that while the vehicle may offer some level of protection under the new, tougher testing conditions, there are specific and critical areas where its performance falls short. This makes a closer look essential for prospective buyers prioritizing comprehensive safety.
One of the most critical and alarming findings for the 2021 Tucson was its “poor driver pelvis safety rating.” This specific vulnerability for the driver’s pelvis is a serious concern, as such injuries can be debilitating and life-altering. It indicates that the vehicle’s design and protective measures in this region were insufficient to adequately safeguard the driver during a severe side impact, a direct and revealing consequence of the higher-energy test.
Despite this significant flaw, the Tucson did receive a “good safety score for both drive and passenger head and neck protection.” This positive aspect provides some reassurance regarding protection for upper body extremities, suggesting that while the lower body may be at risk, substantial efforts were made to protect the head and neck, which are crucial for overall injury mitigation and long-term health outcomes.
Further evaluation revealed mixed results for chest protection: the driver received “acceptable protection,” while the passengers were only rated as “marginal.” This disparity means that the level of chest injury risk can vary significantly depending on seating position within the vehicle. Moreover, the overall structure and safety cage was also rated as “marginal,” implying that the vehicle’s fundamental architecture struggled to consistently maintain optimal occupant space under the demanding updated side impact forces.
Car Model Information: 2024 Hyundai TUCSON SEL
Name: Hyundai Tucson
Caption: Hyundai Tucson (NX4, SWB)
Manufacturer: Hyundai Motor Company
Aka: Hyundai ix35 (2009–2015)
Production: 2004–present
ModelYears: 2005–present
Class: Compact crossover SUV
BodyStyle: sport utility vehicle
Layout: Front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout,Front-engine, four-wheel-drive layout
Sp: us
Categories: 2010s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles written in British English, All articles needing additional references, All articles with dead external links
Summary: The Hyundai Tucson (; Korean: 현대 투싼) is a compact crossover SUV produced by the South Korean manufacturer Hyundai. It is named after the city of Tucson, Arizona, U.S.
The second-generation model was marketed as the Hyundai ix35 in several markets, including Europe, Australia and China, before reverting to Tucson for the third-generation. Since its first-generation, the Tucson has been developed alongside the Kia Sportage, sharing platforms and engines.
The Tucson is the best-selling Hyundai model, with more than 7 million units sold globally since it launched in 2004. Of these, 1.4 million units have been sold in Europe.
Get more information about: Hyundai Tucson
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Brand: Hyundai Model: Tucson
Price: $21,189 Mileage: 58,198 mi.
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5. **2021 Jeep Renegade**:The 2021 Jeep Renegade also received a “Marginal” rating in the IIHS updated side crash test, reflecting a performance that, while not “Poor,” still indicates identifiable areas needing significant improvement in occupant protection. This model exhibited characteristics very similar to the Jeep Compass on the list, suggesting a consistent approach to safety engineering within this segment of their lineup, with common strengths and weaknesses.
Notably, the Renegade received a “Good rating in both driver and passenger head and neck safety.” This is a significant strength, indicating robust and effective protection for some of the most vulnerable parts of the body during a side impact event. Ensuring head and neck integrity is a primary goal of all crash test evaluations, and the Renegade performed commendably in this critically important regard.
In terms of chest protection, the vehicle earned “Acceptable chest safety scores for everyone in the vehicle.” This consistent “Acceptable” rating across all occupants for chest safety is a positive finding, suggesting a reasonable level of protection against chest injuries. While not achieving a “Good” rating, “Acceptable” indicates that significant injury risk is reduced in this area, offering a baseline of safety.
However, a critical area of concern for the 2021 Renegade was its “poorly rated pelvis protection for the driver.” This specific vulnerability, identical to the finding for the Hyundai Tucson, highlights a recurring challenge in some small SUV designs when subjected to the new, more strenuous test. The overall structure and safety cage was ultimately rated as being “Marginal,” suggesting that the vehicle’s integrity, while not failing entirely, could be substantially better to fully protect occupants.
Car Model Information: 2010 Jeep Liberty Renegade
Name: Jeep Renegade
Manufacturer: Jeep
Production: 2014–present
ModelYears: 2015–2023 (US & Canada),2015–present (Mexico)
Assembly: ubl
Designer: Jeremy Glover and Ian Hedge
Class: Subcompact crossover SUV
BodyStyle: SUV
Layout: Front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout
Platform: GM Fiat Small platform
Related: Fiat 500X,Fiat 500L,Fiat Tipo (2015),Fiat Toro
Engine: ubl
Motor: 45 kW
Abbr: on
Transmission: Fiat Powertrain Technologies,Fiat Powertrain Technologies,Fiat Powertrain Technologies,Fiat Powertrain Technologies,Aisin,Fiat Powertrain Technologies,ZF Friedrichshafen
Battery: lithium-ion battery
Drivetrain: PHEV
Wheelbase: 101.2 in
Length: 166.6 in
Width: 71.1 in
Height: 66.5 in
Weight: convert
Sp: us
Categories: 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All articles with bare URLs for citations, Articles with PDF format bare URLs for citations, Articles with bare URLs for citations from August 2024
Summary: The Jeep Renegade is a subcompact crossover SUV produced by Stellantis under their Jeep marque. It was first shown to the public in March 2014 at the Geneva Motor Show and production started in late August of that year. The Renegade was the smallest vehicle currently marketed by Jeep, until the arrival of the Avenger. It slots between the Avenger and the Compass. It is based on the FCA Small Wide 4×4 platform, which is also shared with other FCA models, including those from Fiat and Alfa Romeo brands.
The Renegade comes as standard with front-wheel drive, with optional four-wheel drive systems Active Drive I and Active Drive Low, both of which are paired with Jeep’s Selec-Terrain System.
Get more information about: Jeep Renegade
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Brand: Jeep Model: Renegade
Price: $7,900 Mileage: 133,276 mi.
Read more about: Regret with Every Tank: 12 Used Cars That Fail to Deliver Promised Reliability and Fuel Efficiency
6. **2021-2022 Chevrolet Equinox**:The 2021-2022 Chevrolet Equinox received an overall “Marginal” rating in the IIHS updated side crash test, placing it among several other vehicles in this cohort that performed moderately. This indicates that while it didn’t fall into the lowest “Poor” category, it still demonstrated identifiable weaknesses when faced with the more energetic and realistic side impact scenario introduced by the second-generation testing protocol, urging consumers to look beyond the general rating.
A significant positive aspect of the Equinox’s performance was its “Good rating in driver head, neck and pelvis protection.” This is a strong showing for the driver, suggesting that these critical body regions are commendably well-protected in a side collision. Achieving a “Good” rating in pelvis protection is particularly noteworthy, as this was an area of demonstrated vulnerability for several other models in the “Marginal” and “Poor” categories, setting the Equinox apart here.
However, the driver’s protection wasn’t uniformly strong across all areas, as the 2021 Equinox received a “Marginal score in chest protection.” This suggests that while the driver’s head, neck, and pelvis are relatively safe, the chest may be more susceptible to injury during a side impact. This highlights the vital importance of detailed breakdowns of safety performance rather than relying solely on a singular overall rating for comprehensive understanding.
For rear passengers, the evaluation provided a somewhat mixed bag of results. They benefited from “Good-rated pelvis protection” and “Acceptable neck and chest protection,” offering reasonable safety in these areas. However, their head protection was only rated as “Marginal,” introducing an inconsistency that means rear occupants might be well-protected in some areas but face elevated risks in others. Despite these specific issues, the overall structure and safety cage of the Equinox was rated as “Good,” indicating a robust underlying framework that performed well despite some localized occupant protection shortcomings.
Car Model Information: 2023 Chevrolet Equinox Premier
Name: Chevrolet Equinox
Manufacturer: General Motors
Aka: ubl
Production: 2004–present
ModelYears: 2005–present
Class: Mid-size crossover SUV
BodyStyle: Sport utility vehicle
Layout: Transverse engine,Front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout
Predecessor: ubl
Categories: 2000s cars, 2010s cars, 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles written in American English
Summary: The Chevrolet Equinox is a crossover SUV introduced by Chevrolet in 2004 for the 2005 model year. It was intended to replace the North American Chevrolet Tracker and Chevrolet S-10 Blazer. The third-generation Equinox also replaced the first-generation Chevrolet Captiva.
An all-electric battery-powered (BEV) version called the Equinox EV was introduced in 2022 with sales starting in 2023 for the 2024 model year. It adopts a separate design and underpinnings from the internal combustion engine powered Equinox.
Get more information about: Chevrolet Equinox
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Brand: Chevrolet Model: Equinox
Price: $28,788 Mileage: 12,043 mi.
7. **2021-2022 Ford Escape**:The 2021-2022 Ford Escape also earned a “Marginal” rating in the IIHS updated side crash test, positioning it within a group of small SUVs that exhibited moderate, albeit inconsistent, performance. The updated test, employing a heavier barrier and higher speed, was instrumental in exposing these nuances more clearly than the original side impact evaluation, offering more granular detail for safety-conscious consumers.
In a positive light for its occupants, the Ford Escape received a “Good rating in both driver and passenger neck protection.” This indicates that the vehicle is specifically designed to effectively mitigate neck injuries for occupants in both front and rear seating positions, a crucial aspect of passive safety that contributes significantly to reducing severe injury outcomes in side impacts. This consistent performance across all occupants is a reassuring factor.
However, the compact SUV “only receives a Marginal chest, pelvis and head protection score” for the driver. This cluster of “Marginal” ratings across three critical body regions—chest, pelvis, and head—for the driver is a significant area of concern. It collectively suggests that the driver may face a higher risk of injuries in these particular areas during a severe side collision, despite the vehicle’s otherwise good neck protection, pointing to a need for improvement.
For rear passengers, the Ford Escape demonstrated a somewhat better and more consistent performance profile. Rear occupants generally benefited from “Good-rated head protection and Acceptable-rated chest and pelvis protection.” This shows an improved and more comprehensive level of protection for passengers in the rear compared to the driver in certain critical areas. Despite these varying injury measures, the overall structure and safety cage of the Escape was rated as “Acceptable,” indicating a reasonably stable occupant compartment under demanding impact conditions.
Continuing our comprehensive side impact analysis, we now pivot to examine additional small SUVs that demonstrated a range of performance from acceptable to good in the IIHS’s significantly tougher updated side crash test. This next phase of our evaluation focuses on models that, despite some lingering inconsistencies, began to show stronger protective capabilities in structural integrity and occupant safety measures. These findings are crucial for consumers, offering deeper insights into which vehicles are effectively adapting to the more rigorous demands of modern crash testing and providing a clearer pathway to making informed safety decisions.
Car Model Information: 2024 Ford Escape Active
Name: Ford Escape
Caption: 2021 Escape Hybrid (US)
Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
Aka: Unbulleted list
Production: 2000–present
ModelYears: 2001–present
Class: Compact crossover SUV
BodyStyle: SUV
Layout: Unbulleted list
Predecessor: Nissan Terrano II
Successor: Ford Territory (China)
Categories: 2010s cars, 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles written in American English, All articles with dead external links
Summary: The Ford Escape is a compact crossover SUV manufactured and marketed by the Ford Motor Company since the 2001 model year. The first Ford SUV derived from a car platform, the Escape fell below the Ford Explorer in size; the Escape was sized between the Ford EcoSport and Ford Edge. The 2005 model year Ford Escape Hybrid was the first hybrid-electric vehicle from Ford, and the first hybrid produced as an SUV.
The first two generations of the Escape used the Ford CD2 platform (jointly developed with Mazda), leading to the release of the rebadged variants, the Mazda Tribute and Mercury Mariner; as with the Escape, both the Tribute and Mariner were marketed in North America (the Mariner was never marketed in Canada). In Europe, the Escape was initially branded as the Ford Maverick from 2001 to 2008 (replacing a Nissan-produced SUV).
Under the mid-2000s “One Ford” globalization strategy, the third and fourth-generation designs of the Escape have been unified with the Ford Kuga, designed by Ford of Europe. Sharing a common body and chassis underpinnings (and several engines), the Escape and Kuga are manufactured in their home markets. As with previous generations, the fourth-generation Escape is offered with gasoline, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid options. Outside of North America, the Ford Escape is marketed in Australia, China, and Taiwan.
In August 2025, it was announced that Ford will be discontinuing the Escape after the 2026 model year.
Get more information about: Ford Escape
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Brand: Ford Model: Escape
Price: $19,941 Mileage: 47,663 mi.
Read more about: Over 300,000 Vehicles Recalled: A Comprehensive Guide to Recent Safety Notices from Range Rover, Ford, and Nissan
8. **2021-2022 GMC Terrain**:The 2021-2022 GMC Terrain received an overall “Marginal” rating in the IIHS updated side crash test, yet it distinguished itself with a commendable “Good” rating for its overall structure and safety cage. This fundamental strength indicates that the vehicle’s framework effectively maintained occupant space during the high-energy impact, a crucial differentiator from lower-rated models. Such structural resilience is a cornerstone for robust passive safety.
In terms of occupant protection, the Terrain earned a “Good pelvis protection rating for the driver and rear passenger,” along with “Good” head and neck protection for the driver. These consistent high scores for vital body regions highlight targeted safety engineering. However, the driver received a “Marginal rating for chest protection,” suggesting an area for improvement in specific injury prevention.
Rear passengers also benefited from “Good-ranked pelvis protection,” but their neck and chest protection were rated as “Acceptable-ranked,” and head protection was deemed “Marginal.” Despite these variations in specific injury measures, the vehicle’s strong structural integrity provides a solid foundation, emphasizing that a robust chassis can mitigate some localized protection shortcomings.
Car Model Information: 2019 GMC Canyon All Terrain
Name: GMC Terrain
Manufacturer: General Motors
Production: August 2009 – present
ModelYears: 2010–present
Class: Mid-size crossover SUV
Layout: Transverse engine,Front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout
Predecessor: GMC Envoy,Pontiac Torrent,Opel Antara
BodyStyle: SUV
Categories: 2010s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles written in American English, Articles with short description, Cars introduced in 2009
Summary: The GMC Terrain is a crossover SUV by American manufacturer General Motors under its GMC marque. Sharing its platform with the Chevrolet Equinox, the first-generation Terrain was built on GM’s Theta platform, while subsequent generations are built on the Delta platform. The Terrain is the smallest GMC vehicle, slotted below the Acadia. It also indirectly replaced the Pontiac Torrent which was typically sold via the same dealers prior to General Motors dropping the Pontiac brand.
Get more information about: GMC Terrain
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Brand: GMC Model: Terrain
Price: $27,564 Mileage: 55,409 mi.
9. **2021 Jeep Compass**:The 2021 Jeep Compass, much like the Renegade discussed previously, earned an overall “Marginal” rating in the IIHS updated side impact test, indicating a mixed safety profile. It achieved a “Good rating for driver and passenger head and neck safety,” a vital achievement in protecting these sensitive areas during a side collision. This consistent performance for upper body protection across all occupants is a significant positive.
For chest protection, the Compass received an “Acceptable chest safety rating for everyone in the vehicle,” offering a reasonable level of safety against significant chest injuries. However, a notable inconsistency appeared in pelvis protection, where the “rear passenger can also expect Acceptable level pelvis protection while the driver is marginal.” This disparity suggests a higher risk of pelvic injuries for the driver.
The “overall structure and safety cage was rated as Marginal,” meaning the vehicle’s fundamental architecture struggled to fully maintain optimal occupant space under the demanding forces of the updated test. While it offered some commendable protections, particularly for the head and neck, the structural and driver pelvis vulnerabilities warrant careful consideration from prospective buyers.
Car Model Information: 2020 Jeep Cherokee Latitude Plus
Name: Jeep Compass
Caption: 2019 Jeep Compass
Manufacturer: Jeep
Production: 2006–present
ModelYears: 2007–present
Class: Compact crossover SUV
BodyStyle: SUV
Layout: Front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout
Chassis: Unibody
Categories: 2010s cars, 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles written in American English, Articles with short description
Summary: The Jeep Compass is a compact crossover SUV, introduced in 2006 for the 2007 model year. The first generation Compass and Patriot, its rebadged variant, were among Jeep’s first crossover SUVs. The second-generation Compass debuted in September 2016 in Brazil and at the Los Angeles International Auto Show in November 2016, sharing a modified platform with the Renegade. It is positioned between the smaller Renegade and the larger Cherokee globally or the Commander in South America. The third-generation Compass debuted in May 2025, built on the STLA Medium by Stellantis, shared with other PSA Groupe vehicles.
Get more information about: Jeep Compass
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Brand: Jeep Model: Compass
Price: $15,980 Mileage: 96,780 mi.
Read more about: Lemon in the Garage: 14 Models Drivers Vow Never to Buy Again Due to Poor Build Quality
10. **2021 Kia Sportage**:The 2021 Kia Sportage received an overall “Marginal” rating in the IIHS updated side impact test, presenting a performance with notable strengths alongside concerning weaknesses. It earned a “Good rating in both driver and passenger head and neck protection,” which is crucial for preventing severe injuries, and “Good” pelvis protection for the passenger, indicating effective safeguarding for rear occupants.
However, specific vulnerabilities emerged for the driver and rear passenger. The Sportage received an “Acceptable rating in driver chest protection,” but only a “Marginal rating in rear passenger chest protection,” pointing to inconsistent safety levels. Most critically, a “Poor rating for driver pelvis safety” was identified, signaling a major deficiency in protecting this area during a severe side impact.
The “overall structure and safety cage of the 2021 Kia Sportage was scored as being Acceptable.” This suggests that the vehicle’s framework performed adequately in resisting collapse. However, the significant disparities in specific occupant injury measures, particularly the ‘Poor’ driver pelvis rating, underscore that structural integrity alone does not guarantee comprehensive protection across all body regions and seating positions.
Car Model Information: 2023 Kia Sportage X-Line
Name: Kia Sportage
Manufacturer: Kia
Production: 1993–present
Class: Compact SUV
BodyStyle: SUV
Predecessor: Kia Retona
Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive,Front-engine, front-wheel-drive,Front-engine, all-wheel-drive
Chassis: ubl
ModelYears: 1995–present
Categories: 2000s cars, 2010s cars, ANCAP small off-road, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles written in British English
Summary: The Kia Sportage (Korean: 기아 스포티지) is a series of automobiles manufactured by the South Korean manufacturer Kia since 1993 through five generations. Initially a compact SUV built on a body-on-frame chassis, the second-generation Sportage transitioned to a car-based platform which placed it into the compact crossover SUV class, and was originally developed alongside the Hyundai Tucson and since the fifth-generation model launched in 2021, in two sizes with different wheelbase lengths for different markets, alongside the Hyundai Santa Fe and the Kia Sorento.
The Sportage has been the best-selling Kia model globally since 2016 after surpassing the Rio. In 2018, the model reached the 5 million production milestone. As of 2023, the Sportage is positioned between the Seltos or Niro and the three-row Sorento in Kia’s SUV global lineup with the latter sharing platform with the Sportage.
Get more information about: Kia Sportage
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Brand: Kia Model: Sportage
Price: $25,097 Mileage: 29,815 mi.
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11. **2021 Volvo XC40**:The 2021 Volvo XC40, despite its reputation for safety, received a “Marginal” rating in the IIHS updated side crash test. This result highlights that even premium vehicles face challenges with the new, more strenuous testing protocol. It achieved a “Good rating in driver and passenger head and neck safety,” and “Good passenger pelvis safety,” demonstrating effective protection in these critical areas for all occupants.
However, the XC40’s performance varied in other measures. While “passenger chest protection is considered Acceptable,” the driver experienced “marginal pelvis protection.” This disparity indicates an imbalance in protection, suggesting the driver’s lower body may face higher risks compared to the passenger. Such inconsistencies are vital for consumers to acknowledge.
Furthermore, the “overall structure and safety cage was rated as Marginal,” reflecting that while the structure did not fail catastrophically, it did not fully maintain optimal integrity under the impact. This ‘Marginal’ structural rating, coupled with specific ‘Marginal’ injury measures for the driver, points to areas where design enhancements could significantly bolster overall safety performance in severe side impacts.
Car Model Information: 2023 Volvo XC40 B5 Plus Dark Theme
Name: Volvo XC40
Aka: ubl
Manufacturer: Volvo Cars
Production: ubl
ModelYears: ubl
Designer: Ian Kettle
Class: Subcompact luxury crossover SUV
BodyStyle: ubl
Platform: Compact Modular Architecture
Assembly: ubl
Related: ubl
Layout: ubl
Engine: ubl
Motor: ubl
Abbr: on (C40)
Transmission: ubl
Drivetrain: PHEV
Battery: ubl
Charging: Combined Charging System
Wheelbase: 2702 mm
Length: ubl
Width: 1863 mm
Height: ubl
Weight: convert
Categories: All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles written in British English, Articles with short description, CS1 Dutch-language sources (nl), CS1 German-language sources (de)
Summary: The Volvo XC40 is a subcompact luxury crossover SUV (C-segment) manufactured by Volvo Cars. It was unveiled on 21 September 2017 as the smallest SUV model from Volvo, below the XC60. Orders started in September 2017, and manufacturing began in November 2017.
Along with conventional petrol and diesel engines, a plug-in hybrid model was introduced in 2019, and a fully electric model was released in 2020. Both the plug-in hybrid and the electric versions were marketed as the XC40 Recharge. In 2024, Volvo renamed the battery electric XC40 to the Volvo EX40, aligning it with newer battery electric models such as the EX30 and the EX90.
A coupe version of the battery electric model with a sloping rear roof was released in 2021 as the C40 Recharge. It was renamed to the Volvo EC40 since 2024.
The XC40 received the European Car of the Year Award at the 2018 Geneva Motor Show. and the car was named Car of the Year Japan for 2018/2019.
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Brand: Volvo Model: XC40
Price: $24,156 Mileage: 93,783 mi.
Read more about: Nightmare in the Driveway: 10 SUVs Dealers Say They Can’t Move Due to Lingering Issues
12. **2021 Audi Q3**:The 2021 Audi Q3 achieved an overall “Acceptable” rating in the IIHS updated side crash test, marking a notable improvement over previous marginal performers. This rating signifies a generally competent level of protection under the new, tougher conditions, making it a more desirable option for safety-conscious consumers who prioritize rigorous evaluation results.
The Q3 earned a “Good rating in both driver and passenger head and neck protection,” ensuring robust safety for these critical areas. It also received an “Acceptable score in both chest protection categories,” meaning both front and rear occupants have a reasonable level of protection against chest injuries. “Passenger pelvis protection was also rated as Acceptable,” contributing to a solid rear occupant safety profile.
However, a significant concern was a “Poor” rating for the driver’s pelvis protection, which is a serious drawback and indicates a specific vulnerability for the driver’s lower body. While the “overall structure and safety cage earned an Acceptable score,” demonstrating adequate resistance to intrusion, this critical flaw for the driver’s pelvis highlights the uneven nature of protection even within ‘Acceptable’ rated vehicles.
Car Model Information: 2018 Audi Q3 2.0T Sport Premium
Name: Audi Q3
Manufacturer: Audi AG
Production: 2011–present
ModelYears: 2015–present (North America)
Class: Subcompact luxury crossover SUV
Layout: Front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout,Front-engine, four-wheel-drive layout
Categories: 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All articles covered by WikiProject Wikify, All pages needing cleanup, Articles covered by WikiProject Wikify from January 2018
Summary: The Audi Q3 is a subcompact luxury crossover SUV made by Audi. The Q3 has a transverse-mounted front engine, and entered production in 2011.
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Brand: Audi Model: Q3
Price: $21,270 Mileage: 19,874 mi.
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13. **2021 Buick Encore**:The 2021 Buick Encore distinguished itself with an overall “Acceptable” rating in the IIHS updated side crash test, bolstered by strong performance in several key areas. It earned a “Good rating for driver and passenger head, neck, pelvis protection,” a truly impressive consistency across these three vital body regions for both front and rear occupants. This broad-spectrum ‘Good’ rating is particularly noteworthy for pelvis protection, a common weak point for many other models.
While most protection areas were exemplary, the chest protection saw a slight variation: “Chest protection for the passenger was also rated Good but was named as Marginal for the driver.” This indicates that while rear passenger chest safety is excellent, the driver’s chest protection could be improved, providing valuable nuance for buyers.
Crucially, the “overall structure and safety cage was rated as Good.” This top-tier structural rating signifies exceptional integrity, effectively resisting deformation and maintaining a safe occupant compartment during the severe side impact. The combination of strong structural performance and largely “Good” occupant injury measures makes the 2021 Buick Encore a highly commendable performer, offering robust protection.
Car Model Information: 2016 Buick Encore Leather
Name: Buick Encore
Manufacturer: General Motors
Production: 2012–2022
ModelYears: 2013–2022
Class: Subcompact crossover SUV
BodyStyle: SUV
Successor: Buick Envista
Categories: 2010s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles written in American English, Articles with short description, Buick vehicles
Summary: The Buick Encore is a subcompact crossover SUV built by General Motors from 2012 to 2022. It is subcompact crossover SUV marketed by Buick and its fourth SUV overall after the Rendezvous, Rainier, and Enclave.
The “Encore” designation was previously used by American Motors Corporation (AMC) for the subcompact two and four-door hatchback variants of the U.S.-built front-wheel drive Renault Alliance from 1984 to 1987.
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Brand: Buick Model: Encore
Price: $11,491 Mileage: 90,070 mi.
Read more about: The 12 Most Boring Crossovers in the Market Right Now: What Critics and Performance Specs Reveal for Enthusiasts.
14. **2021 Chevrolet Trax**:The 2021 Chevrolet Trax also secured an overall “Acceptable” rating in the IIHS updated side crash test, demonstrating a commendable level of performance under more stringent conditions. A key strength for the Trax was its “good rating in both driver and passenger head, neck and pelvis protection,” achieving consistent high performance for these critical areas for all occupants, which is a hallmark of effective passive safety design.
Similar to its Buick Encore counterpart, the Trax showed a slight variation in chest protection. While “the rear passenger received a good score in the chest protection,” the driver’s chest protection was rated as “marginal.” This suggests rear occupants might be better shielded from chest injuries than the driver, a specific detail consumers should note.
Furthermore, the “overall structure and safety cage was good.” This top-tier structural rating confirms that the Chevrolet Trax’s fundamental framework effectively maintained its integrity and protected the occupant space during the high-energy side impact. The combination of a strong safety cage and mostly “Good” occupant protection measures positions the 2021 Chevrolet Trax as a strong performer, offering a reassuring level of safety despite the specific marginal rating for driver chest protection.
Car Model Information: 2021 Chevrolet Trax LT
Name: Chevrolet Trax
Manufacturer: General Motors
Aka: unbulleted list
Production: 2013–present
BodyStyle: SUV
Predecessor: unbulleted list
Successor: unbulleted list
Categories: 2010s cars, 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles written in American English, Articles with short description
Summary: The Chevrolet Trax is a compact crossover SUV manufactured by General Motors and marketed under the Chevrolet brand since 2013, currently in its second generation.
The first generation model was released globally in 2013 as the smallest, entry-level crossover SUV offering from the brand. Development and production were centered in South Korea by GM Korea. A restyled model was also produced as the Buick Encore in North America and as the Opel/Vauxhall Mokka in Europe.
In several markets, the vehicle was marketed as the Chevrolet Tracker, and as the Holden Trax in Australia and New Zealand. The Trax became available in Canada, Mexico, Germany, South Korea, Lebanon, United Arab Emirates, and Europe for the 2013 model year and was released in the United States for the 2015 model year.
In 2019, GM released the replacement of the Trax for China and Latin America, the Tracker. The first-generation Trax continued to be marketed in North America, South Korea, and several other markets until 2022, when it was replaced by the larger second-generation Trax due for the 2024 model year. The second-generation Trax is also marketed in China as the Chevrolet Seeker.
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Brand: Chevrolet Model: Trax
Price: $17,000 Mileage: 43,060 mi.
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15. **2021 Mazda CX-5**:Concluding our detailed comparison, the 2021 Mazda CX-5 emerged as the highest-rated vehicle in this inaugural round of the IIHS updated side crash tests, earning the coveted “Good” overall rating. This achievement is a testament to exceptional engineering, proving that some manufacturers are successfully meeting the heightened demands of the second-generation side impact protocol. For consumers prioritizing ultimate small SUV side impact safety, the CX-5 sets a new benchmark.
The Mazda CX-5’s superior performance is rooted in its “Good score in overall structure and cage safety.” This fundamental strength means the vehicle’s body structure effectively resisted deformation and maintained a secure occupant compartment, minimizing intrusion and maximizing the effectiveness of internal safety systems during the severe 37 mph side impact. A robust safety cage is the cornerstone of advanced crash protection.
Beyond structural integrity, the CX-5 delivered exemplary occupant protection across the board. It received a “Good score in driver and passenger head and neck, pelvis and head protection.” This comprehensive ‘Good’ performance for all critical body regions, for both front and rear occupants, signifies a holistic approach to safety, ensuring consistent and high-level protection where it matters most, and effectively addressing pelvic vulnerabilities.
The only area where the 2021 CX-5 did not achieve a “Good” rating was in “driver chest protection,” which earned an “Acceptable score.” While not perfect, an “Acceptable” rating still signifies a reasonable level of protection against serious injury, making it the lowest rating received by this top-performing SUV and highlighting the CX-5’s ability to nearly ace every aspect of the rigorous IIHS testing.
Car Model Information: 2016 Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring
Name: Mazda CX-5
Caption: Second generation CX-5 (KF; 2024)
Manufacturer: Mazda
Production: 2012–present
ModelYears: 2013–present
Class: Compact crossover SUV
BodyStyle: SUV
Layout: unbulleted list
Predecessor: unbulleted list
Categories: 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All articles containing potentially dated statements, All articles lacking reliable references, All articles with dead external links
Summary: The Mazda CX-5 is a compact crossover SUV, produced by Mazda since 2012. A successor to both the Tribute and the slightly larger CX-7, it is Mazda’s first model to feature the “Kodo” design language and the first model to be fully developed with a range of technologies branded as Skyactiv, including a rigid, lightweight platform combined with a series of engines and transmissions to reduce emissions and fuel consumption.
Since 2019, the CX-5 is positioned above the smaller CX-30. As of 2022, depending on the region, the CX-5 is positioned right below the larger CX-50, CX-60 or the CX-8 within Mazda’s crossover SUV line-up.
Since 2014, the CX-5 has consistently been Mazda’s best-selling model globally. It achieved record sales in 2019, with 444,262 units sold worldwide. As of March 2022, cumulative sales of the CX-5 reached around 3.5 million units.
Get more information about: Mazda CX-5
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Brand: Mazda Model: CX-5
Price: $15,980 Mileage: 93,888 mi.
Read more about: The 12 Most Boring Crossovers in the Market Right Now: What Critics and Performance Specs Reveal for Enthusiasts.
This comprehensive analysis of the IIHS updated side impact test results for 15 small SUVs offers a crucial, data-driven perspective for consumers. These rigorous evaluations serve as an indispensable tool, pushing manufacturers to innovate beyond minimum standards in the relentless pursuit of safer vehicles. While some models still have significant ground to cover, the strong performances from vehicles like the Mazda CX-5, Buick Encore, and Chevrolet Trax demonstrate that high levels of side impact protection are achievable. For buyers navigating the diverse small SUV market, understanding these detailed ratings—from structural integrity to specific body region protection—is paramount. It allows for truly informed decisions, empowering you to choose a vehicle that not only meets your lifestyle needs but also offers the most robust safeguarding for you and your loved ones on every journey. Prioritizing safety through such objective data is not just a choice; it’s an investment in peace of mind.
