Safety Risk Alert: 15 Popular SUVs That Failed the Toughest Crash Tests, According to Leading Safety Agencies

When consumers purchase a new vehicle, safety is often paramount. While attractive design, powerful performance, and ample legroom certainly influence buying decisions, the fundamental integrity of a vehicle’s safety systems can, quite literally, be the difference between minor incident and severe consequence in the event of an accident. It is a critical responsibility of manufacturers to ensure their vehicles protect occupants, and it is the role of independent agencies to rigorously test these claims.

Esteemed organizations like the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) dedicate themselves to this vital task. They conduct extensive crash tests, analyze structural integrity, and evaluate occupant protection across a wide array of scenarios, from frontal impacts to side collisions and even roof strength evaluations. Their findings are distilled into detailed safety reports and ratings, providing an unbiased, data-driven assessment that empowers consumers to make truly informed choices about their automotive investments.

Recently, these agencies have introduced even tougher testing protocols, pushing manufacturers to new levels of safety engineering. The IIHS, for instance, developed a new, more severe side crash test using a barrier weighing 4,180 pounds — akin to a modern midsize SUV — impacting the vehicle at 37 miles per hour, generating 82 percent more energy than the old test. In a market crowded with seemingly robust SUVs, the results from these intensified assessments are often eye-opening, revealing that even popular models fall short. We delve into some of these vehicles, spotlighting the specific areas where they failed to meet the most advanced safety standards.

1. **Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross**The Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross, reimagined as a crossover SUV in 2017, aimed to stand out in a competitive market. While its initial appearance was sharp, and its affordability appealing at just under $30,000, a closer look at its safety ratings reveals significant concerns, particularly with the 2024 model. The vehicle comes equipped with standard advanced safety features such as blind spot warning, lane change assist, and rear cross-traffic alert, and it did earn a “Good” rating from IIHS for crashworthiness in the original side test, small overlap front test, and moderate overlap front original test.

However, the good news for the Eclipse Cross ends there. Under the IIHS’s updated testing protocols, specifically designed to be more challenging, the vehicle received a “Poor” rating, which is the lowest possible score on their scale. This concerning result was directly attributed to subpar structure and safety cage performance, particularly endangering the heads and necks of rear passengers in a crash scenario.

This outcome for the 2024 model represents a surprising downturn for a brand whose last three model years had received five-star overall ratings from the NHTSA. It serves as a stark reminder that past performance does not guarantee future safety, especially as testing standards evolve. For buyers considering the Eclipse Cross primarily for its lower price point, it becomes crucial to weigh that affordability against these less-than-stellar safety ratings and the potential compromises in occupant protection.

Car Model Information: 2024 Subaru Outback Touring
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: $32,465 Mileage: 21,780 mi.

2024 Honda HR-V — Honda HR-V – Wikipedia, Photo by wikimedia.org, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

2. **Honda HR-V**Among the small SUVs subjected to the IIHS’s new, tougher side crash test, the Honda HR-V was one of only two modern crossovers to receive a “Poor” rating. This designation is a critical indicator of significant safety deficiencies, especially concerning the protection of both drivers and passengers in severe side-impact collisions. The HR-V received only four “good” ratings across the ten areas tested, which include vital categories such as chest, neck, and head protection for both driver and rear passenger positions.

The test revealed alarming structural compromises, particularly around the 1:40 mark in the IIHS video demonstration, where the HR-V’s B-pillar was observed to break away at the bottom. This structural failure allowed the crash sled to intrude alarmingly far, pushing halfway into the passenger compartment. Such intrusion drastically reduces the survival space for occupants, increasing the risk of serious injury.

IIHS President David Harkey explicitly stated the intent behind these new, more stringent tests: “We developed this new test because we suspected there was room for more progress, and these results confirm that.” The HR-V’s poor performance underscores the need for continued improvement in vehicle design to meet increasingly demanding safety benchmarks. For consumers, this rating signals a clear warning regarding the HR-V’s ability to protect occupants in a severe side-impact scenario.

Car Model Information: 2022 Honda HR-V EX
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, 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: $20,961 Mileage: 57,356 mi.

3. **Chevrolet Equinox**The Chevrolet Equinox, Chevy’s entry into the compact SUV market since 2005, has often garnered mixed reception. While offering a comfortable ride and decent fuel economy, its safety performance has proven to be less reliable, especially concerning recent model years and updated crash tests. The 2023 model, for instance, received both a “Poor” and “Marginal” rating in the moderate overlap and side-crash tests, respectively.

Further reinforcing these concerns, the 2024 Chevrolet Equinox performed “astonishingly poorly” according to IIHS ratings and updated testing. It returned a “Poor” rating, the lowest on the IIHS scale, indicating severe deficiencies in crash performance and avoidance. The vehicle notably struggled with crash avoidance and mitigation tests, lacking the required safety features for the protection of the driver, passengers, and even pedestrians.

While the NHTSA gave the 2024 Equinox a perfect rating in all its tests, they also recorded 58 complaints for the vehicle, suggesting that consumer experience may not always align with basic star ratings. Despite Chevrolet’s Safety Assist system, the consistent “Poor” ratings from the IIHS in critical, updated tests mean that if crash protection is a top priority, consumers should carefully consider these serious shortcomings and explore other SUVs offering more robust safety records.

Car Model Information: 2022 Chevrolet Equinox 1LT
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: $19,495 Mileage: 36,825 mi.

4. **Dodge Durango (2024)**Few SUVs possess the intimidating presence and raw power of the 2024 Dodge Durango, boasting a 710 hp V8 and an 8700-pound heavy-duty towing capacity. It is designed to haul, tow, and make a statement. However, its commanding presence does not translate into cutting-edge safety, as the Durango notably missed the mark for technological innovation, particularly concerning safety features and crash test performance.

Recent crash tests revealed that the Durango did not perform well, especially in crash avoidance, which may be linked to its acknowledged lackluster technology. Although some modern safety features like automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring are available, they are not all standard. This forces budget-conscious buyers to pay extra to fully equip the vehicle with crucial safety systems, potentially compromising their protection.

Critically, the IIHS assigned a “Poor” rating to the Durango’s structure and safety cage, specifically identifying the driver’s legs as an unprotected area. Furthermore, the NHTSA awarded it only three out of five stars in the rollover department, estimating the risk of a tumble at a concerning 21.20%. The absence of pedestrian front crash prevention as a standard feature further diminished its safety ratings, overshadowing even its good ratings in the side and small overlap front tests. For a vehicle of its size and power, these safety compromises are significant.

Car Model Information: 2012 Dodge Durango Crew
Name: Dodge Durango
Manufacturer: Dodge
Production: 1997–present
Class: Mid-size,SUV
Predecessor: Dodge Ramcharger,Dodge Town Panel and Town Wagon
Related: Dodge Dakota
Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout,automobile layout
Caption: Dodge Durango GT 2021
ModelYears: 1998–2009,2011–present
Categories: 2000s cars, 2010s cars, 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All accuracy disputes
Summary: The Dodge Durango is a mid-size SUV produced by Dodge starting with the 1998 model year. The first two generations were very similar in that both were based on the Dodge Dakota and Dodge Ram, both featured a body-on-frame construction and both were produced at the Newark Assembly Plant in Newark, Delaware through the 2009 model year. The third-generation Durango began with the 2011 model year. It is built on the same platform as the Jeep Grand Cherokee, features unibody construction, and has been assembled at the Jefferson North Assembly Plant in Detroit, Michigan, since late 2010. Each generation had options for different engine sizes and power ratings, with different transmissions also. In 2009 a hybrid variant was introduced, but ended quickly with the second generation Durango. From 2007 to 2009 the Durango was available as the Chrysler Aspen from Chrysler. Over two million Durangos have been sold since it was introduced in 1998.

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Brand: Dodge Model: Durango
Price: $7,995 Mileage: 161,016 mi.

“Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro” by Jacob Frey 4A is licensed under CC BY 2.0

5. **Toyota 4Runner (2024)**The Toyota 4Runner holds a legendary status with a massive global fan base, known for its rugged capabilities. The 2024 model, however, largely serves as a placeholder for the anticipated 2025 redesign, and while it retains the vehicle’s characteristic grit, it also hit several bum notes, most notably in the crucial area of safety. Historically, safety has not been the 4Runner’s strongest suit, and the 2024 model unfortunately continued this trend.

In driver-side safety tests conducted by the IIHS, the 4Runner received an overall rating of “Marginal.” This rating indicates that the vehicle offers only minimal protection in certain common collision types. The NHTSA’s frontal crash tests also painted a concerning picture, with the 4Runner not holding up well and receiving an average three-star rating.

The concern extends to rollover resistance, where the NHTSA test also resulted in a three-star rating, indicating a significant 24.6% chance of the vehicle rolling over. While Toyota does include some basic safety technology, the 4Runner’s advanced safety features cannot compensate for its outdated crashworthiness. Its aging design, lacking modern crash structure updates, falls short of contemporary safety standards, making its anticipated complete design overhaul for the 2025 model a welcome development for safety-conscious consumers.

Car Model Information: 2023 Toyota 4Runner TRD Off Road
Name: Toyota 4Runner
Caption: 2025 Toyota 4Runner, TRD Sport trim
Manufacturer: Toyota
Aka: Toyota Hilux Surf (Japan, 1983–2009)
Production: October 1983 – present
ModelYears: 1984–present (US)
Class: unbulleted list
Layout: unbulleted list
Chassis: Body-on-frame
Successor: unbulleted list
Categories: 1990s cars, 2000s cars, 2010s cars, 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles
Summary: The Toyota 4Runner is an SUV manufactured by the Japanese automaker Toyota and marketed globally since 1984, across six generations. In Japan, it was marketed as the Toyota Hilux Surf and was withdrawn from the market in 2009. The original 4Runner was a compact SUV and little more than a Toyota Hilux pickup truck with a fiberglass shell over the bed, but the model has since undergone significant independent development into a cross between a compact and a mid-size SUV. All 4Runners have been built in Japan at Toyota’s plant in Tahara, Aichi, or at the Hino Motors (a Toyota subsidiary) plant in Hamura. The name “4Runner” was created by copywriter Robert Nathan with the Saatchi & Saatchi advertising company as a play on the term “forerunner”. The agency held contests to invent new names for Toyota’s forthcoming vehicles. According to Toyota, the “4” described the vehicle’s 4-wheel drive system while “Runner” was a reference to its all-terrain capabilities and how it could “run” off-road. For some markets, the Hilux Surf was replaced in 2005 by the lower cost but similar Fortuner, which is based on the Hilux platform. As of 2021, the 4Runner is marketed in the Bahamas, Bolivia, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Panama, Peru, the United States and Venezuela. Many markets that did not receive the 4Runner, such as Europe and the Middle East, instead received the similarly designed Land Cruiser Prado, another SUV that shared many of the same components. The 4Runner came in at number five in a 2019 study by iSeeCars.com ranking the longest-lasting vehicles in the US. The 4Runner had 3.9 percent of vehicles over 200,000 miles (320,000 km), according to the study.

Get more information about: Toyota 4Runner

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Brand: Toyota Model: 4Runner
Price: $43,495 Mileage: 35,584 mi.

6. **Honda CR-V (2024)**The Honda CR-V has long been a crowd favorite in the U.S., celebrated for its practical, comfortable, and reliable ride, suitable for both daily commuting and longer road trips. Historically, it has also boasted great safety ratings. However, the 2024 model presents a notable exception to this reputation, particularly under the more rigorous new testing protocols from leading safety organizations.

In the IIHS crash tests, while the 2024 CR-V performed well in most assessment areas, it notably struggled in the updated side-impact test. Here, it achieved an “Acceptable” rating, which, while not the lowest, is a step down from the top-tier “Good” grade and is disappointing for a vehicle competing in a market increasingly focused on occupant protection. This indicates that there are still areas where its side-impact protection could be significantly improved.

More concerningly, the 2024 CR-V earned a “Poor” rating for its moderate overlap front crash test from the IIHS. This specific failure point has been an ongoing issue for the brand since the 2021 model, suggesting a persistent design or structural weakness that has not yet been fully addressed. Although the NHTSA ratings for the 2024 CR-V were generally good, with a five-star overall rating, the cumulative evidence from IIHS points to significant weaknesses that warrant careful consideration by potential buyers.

Car Model Information: 2020 Honda CR-V EX
Name: Honda CR-V
Caption: 2023 Honda CR-V e:HEV
Manufacturer: Honda
Aka: Honda Breeze (China, 2019–present)
Production: 1995–present
Class: Compact crossover SUV
BodyStyle: Sport utility vehicle
Layout: Front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout,Front-engine, four-wheel-drive layout
Chassis: Unibody
Predecessor: Honda Crossroad
Successor: Honda ZR-V
Categories: 2000s cars, 2010s cars, 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles written in British English
Summary: The Honda CR-V (also sold as the Honda Breeze in China since 2019) is a compact crossover SUV manufactured by Japanese automaker Honda since 1995. Initial models of the CR-V were built using the same platform as the Civic. Honda began producing the CR-V in Sayama, Japan, and Swindon, United Kingdom, for worldwide markets, adding North American manufacturing sites in East Liberty, Ohio, United States, in 2007; El Salto, Jalisco, Mexico, in late 2007 (ended in early 2017); Alliston, Ontario, Canada, in 2012; and Greensburg, Indiana, United States, in February 2017. The CR-V is also produced in Wuhan for the Chinese market by Dongfeng Honda, and also marketed as the Breeze in China for the version produced at Guangzhou by Guangqi Honda. Honda states that “CR-V” stands for “Comfortable Runabout Vehicle,” while the term “Compact Recreational Vehicle” was used in a British car review article that was republished by Honda, associating the model name with the Sports Utility Vehicle abbreviation of SU-V. As of 2022, the CR-V is positioned between the smaller ZR-V (marketed as HR-V in North America) — with which the CR-V shares a platform — and the larger North American market Passport/Pilot or the Chinese market Avancier/UR-V. It is currently Honda’s best-selling vehicle in the world, and the second best-selling SUV globally in 2020.

Get more information about: Honda CR-V

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Brand: Honda Model: CR-V
Price: $20,995 Mileage: 71,622 mi.

7. **Chevrolet Tahoe**Large sport utility vehicles like the Chevrolet Tahoe are frequently perceived as inherently safe due to their imposing size and commanding presence. However, recent, more stringent safety ratings from the IIHS reveal significant discrepancies in the safety performance even among these large models. The Tahoe, unfortunately, exhibited several critical shortcomings, particularly in updated crash tests designed to assess comprehensive occupant protection.

In the driver-side small overlap test, the Tahoe received an “acceptable” rating, with sufficient survival space for the driver. However, this seemingly adequate performance was marred by significant footwell intrusion, which substantially increased the risk of lower leg injuries for the driver. This highlights that even with survival space maintained, specific body regions can still be vulnerable to harm in certain collision types.

Further complicating its safety profile, the Tahoe was rated “poor” in the updated moderate overlap frontal crash test when an additional dummy was placed in the second row to evaluate rear passenger safety. This test revealed a high risk of head or neck injuries for rear-seat passengers, alongside elevated chest injury risks due to high seat belt forces. Compounding these issues, its second-row lap belt was observed to slide onto the dummy’s abdomen, increasing the risk of abdominal injuries. Additionally, the Tahoe earned only a “marginal” rating in the pedestrian test, with its standard front crash prevention system faltering in the dark, failing to slow down at all in certain nighttime scenarios. These combined factors indicate a multi-faceted failure to meet advanced safety standards in various critical areas.

The initial assessments reveal a critical need for manufacturers to adapt to evolving safety standards, and our continued examination of popular SUVs that falter under stringent crash tests further underscores this point. As independent agencies like the IIHS and NHTSA push the boundaries of safety evaluation, more vehicles, even those from well-regarded brands, are being exposed for their vulnerabilities. The following eight models illustrate various shortcomings, from inadequate structural protection to deficient crash avoidance systems, providing a comprehensive look at the risks consumers still face in the SUV market.

Car Model Information: 2024 Chevrolet Tahoe 4WD RST
Name: Chevrolet Tahoe,GMC Yukon
Manufacturer: General Motors
Production: 1991–present (Yukon),1994–present (Tahoe)
Class: Full-size SUV
Related: Cadillac Escalade,Chevrolet Suburban,Chevrolet Silverado,Hummer H2
Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout
Predecessor: Chevrolet K5 Blazer
Caption: 2022 Chevrolet Tahoe RST (fifth generation)
Categories: 2000s cars, 2010s cars, 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All articles with unsourced statements
Summary: The Chevrolet Tahoe () is a line of full-size SUVs from Chevrolet marketed since the 1995 model year. Marketed alongside the GMC Yukon for its entire production, the Tahoe is the successor of the Chevrolet K5 Blazer; the Yukon has replaced the full-sized GMC Jimmy. Both trucks derive their nameplates from western North America, with Chevrolet referring to Lake Tahoe; GMC, the Canadian Yukon. Initially produced as a three-door SUV wagon, a five-door wagon body was introduced for 1995, ultimately replacing the three-door body entirely. The five-door wagon shares its body with the Chevrolet and GMC Suburban (today, GMC Yukon XL) as a shorter-wheelbase variant. Since 1998, the Tahoe has served as the basis of the standard-wheelbase GMC Yukon Denali and Cadillac Escalade luxury SUVs. The Tahoe is sold in North America, parts of Asia such as the Philippines, and the Middle East, plus other countries including Bolivia, Chile, Peru, Colombia, Ecuador, and Angola as a left-hand-drive vehicle. The Yukon is only sold in North America and the Middle East. The Tahoe has regularly been the best-selling full-size SUV in the United States, frequently outselling its competition by two to one.

Get more information about: Chevrolet Tahoe

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Brand: Chevrolet Model: Tahoe
Price: $63,888 Mileage: 23,406 mi.

Cadillac Escalade (Standard-length) — File:2018 Cadillac Escalade ESV Platinum front 4.6.19.jpg – Wikimedia Commons, Photo by wikimedia.org, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

8. **Cadillac Escalade (2024)**The Cadillac Escalade has long been synonymous with grandeur, commanding attention with its imposing size and luxurious appointments. This flagship SUV promises an exceptional experience in terms of comfort and style, yet its safety performance, particularly for the 2024 model, raises questions about whether its commanding presence translates into equally commanding protection.

While the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded the 2024 Escalade a respectable four-star overall rating, this score was tempered by an “imperfect passenger frontal crash test.” More concerning was its performance in the rollover test, where it received only three stars for its resilience in a loss-of-control scenario. Such a rating suggests that, despite its size, the Escalade may not offer the robust protection expected in certain critical accident types.

It is notable that the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has yet to conduct crash tests on the 2024 Cadillac Escalade. For a vehicle of its stature and price point, buyers naturally anticipate top-tier safety performance across the board. These initial findings from the NHTSA indicate that while luxury is abundant, potential buyers may need to weigh the Escalade’s pampering amenities against these discernible safety compromises.

Car Model Information: 2023 Cadillac Escalade Premium Luxury
Name: Cadillac Escalade
Caption: Fifth generation Cadillac Escalade
Manufacturer: Cadillac
Production: 1998–present,2002–present (ESV),2001–2013 (EXT),2008–2013 (Hybrid)
ModelYears: 1999–2000,2002–present
Class: Full-size,luxury car,sport utility vehicle
Related: ubl
Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel drive layout,Front-engine, four-wheel drive layout
Categories: 2000s cars, 2010s cars, 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles in need of updating
Summary: The Cadillac Escalade is a full-size luxury SUV manufactured by General Motors and marketed by Cadillac as its first major entry into the SUV market. The Escalade was introduced for the 1999 model year in response to an influx of new luxury SUVs in the late 1990s including the Mercedes-Benz M-Class, Range Rover, Lexus LX, and Ford’s 1998 debut of the Lincoln Navigator. The Escalade project went into production only ten months after it was approved. The Escalade is built in Arlington, Texas. The term “escalade” refers to a siege warfare tactic of scaling defensive walls or ramparts with the aid of ladders or siege towers. More generally, it is a French word which is the noun-equivalent form of the French verb escalader, which means “to climb or scale”. The Escalade is currently sold in North America and select international markets (Europe and Asia) where Cadillac has official sales channels. The Escalade ESV (Escalade Stretch Vehicle) is sold in North America, Russia, and the Middle East, but is only available by special order in some international markets. The right-hand-drive Escalade and Escalade ESV are available through third-party conversion specialists without official agreement with Cadillac in Australian, Oceanic, and Japanese markets. On August 8, 2023, GM presented the Escalade IQ, an all-electric version of the Escalade, and the third model in Cadillac’s EV line, after the Celestiq, and Lyriq. It is expected to go on sale in late 2024 for the 2025 model year, with a starting price of $130,000. The Escalade has gone through five generations, the most recent (the fifth) prsented in 2021, noted for its technology and self-driving capability. The fifth generation Escalade is nearly two metres high, and was criticized by The Verge for its excessive size and hazard to pedestrians.

Get more information about: Cadillac Escalade

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Brand: Cadillac Model: Escalade
Price: $64,295 Mileage: 44,458 mi.

Audi Q3 SUV — File:2019 Audi Q3 Quattro S-Line, front 11.22.19.jpg – Wikimedia Commons, Photo by wikimedia.org, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

9. **Audi Q3 (2024)**Audi’s Q3, a prominent entry in the luxury small SUV segment, typically impresses with its sleek design, refined interior, and advanced technology. For the 2024 model year, it continues to embody these characteristics, delivering the sophistication expected from the brand. However, when subjected to the most challenging safety evaluations, the Q3’s performance reveals a less flattering picture.

The IIHS ratings for the 2024 Audi Q3 highlight specific areas of concern. While its structure and safety cage received a relatively strong rating, a more critical assessment came from the moderate overlap front test, where the vehicle earned a “Marginal” overall rating. Furthermore, in the updated side-impact test, designed to be more severe, the Q3 managed only an “Acceptable” rating, falling short of the top “Good” grade that indicates robust protection.

In contrast, the NHTSA offered a more favorable assessment, granting the 2024 Q3 a five-star overall rating and a perfect score in its side crash test. This discrepancy underscores the varying stringency of different test protocols. Despite its standard safety features, the IIHS’s findings suggest that the Q3’s crash performance has weaknesses that cannot be overlooked by consumers prioritizing comprehensive accident protection.

Car Model Information: 2024 Audi Q3 45 S line Premium Plus
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.

Get more information about: Audi Q3

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Brand: Audi Model: Q3
Price: $35,316 Mileage: 7,542 mi.

10. **Jeep Compass (2024)**The Jeep Compass, introduced as an SUV built for adventure, aims to combine rugged off-road characteristics with modern technology. The 2024 model continues this legacy, appealing to those who seek thrill and capability. However, beneath its adventurous exterior, the Compass exhibits safety deficiencies that could be a significant concern for potential buyers, especially those with families.

The IIHS safety review for the 2024 Jeep Compass revealed particularly troubling results in child safety checks, where it showed “marginal performance.” This is an alarming finding, as SUVs are frequently chosen for their family-friendly attributes. Beyond child safety, the majority of the Compass’s overall IIHS ratings also settled at “Marginal,” indicating that its protective capabilities fall short across various collision types.

The NHTSA’s front barrier test further compounded these concerns, with the vehicle “coming up short.” This indicates an “adverse risk for drivers and passengers in the case of an accident involving the hood,” suggesting that frontal collisions could pose significant threats to occupants. For drivers who regularly commute or transport their loved ones, these consistent “Marginal” ratings and specific shortcomings make a compelling case for exploring safer alternatives.

11. **Ford Expedition**As another large sport utility vehicle, the Ford Expedition, much like the Chevrolet Tahoe, often conveys an immediate impression of safety through sheer size. Yet, the stringent evaluations by the IIHS have cast a revealing light on areas where the Expedition lags, demonstrating that even substantial dimensions do not inherently guarantee superior occupant protection in all crash scenarios.

In the crucial driver- and passenger-side small overlap front crash tests, the Expedition earned a “marginal” rating. This performance was marked by structural failures, including the steering column partially detaching from the instrument panel and the A-pillar separating from the rocker panel. Such significant structural compromises led to “excessive footwell intrusion,” resulting in a “high risk of injury to the driver’s right leg and a moderate risk to the left.”

When an additional dummy was positioned in the second row for updated moderate overlap ratings, the Expedition, like other large SUVs, indicated a “high risk of chest injuries for rear-seat passengers” due to high seat belt forces. While it did achieve a “good” rating in the updated side test, the assessment noted that the “rear dummy’s head struck the side curtain airbag hard,” suggesting less than optimal performance even in a “good” scenario. Further detracting from its safety profile, the Expedition’s standard headlights were rated “marginal” due to “inadequate illumination and excessive glare,” and its seat belt reminder system also received a “marginal” rating because of a delayed unbelted occupant alert and the absence of a second-row reminder, collectively painting a picture of comprehensive safety shortcomings.

Car Model Information: 2019 Ford Expedition Max Limited
Name: Ford Expedition
Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
Production: 1996–present
ModelYears: 1997–present
Class: Full-size car,Sport utility vehicle
Related: Lincoln Navigator
BodyStyle: Sport utility vehicle
Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout,Front-engine, four-wheel-drive layout
Chassis: Body-on-frame
Predecessor: Ford Bronco,Ford Excursion
Categories: 2000s cars, 2010s cars, 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles written in American English
Summary: The Ford Expedition is a full-size SUV produced by Ford Motor Company since the 1997 model year. The successor to the Ford Bronco, the Expedition shifted its form factor from an off-road oriented vehicle to a truck-based station wagon. Initially competing against the Chevrolet Tahoe, the Expedition also competes against the Toyota Sequoia, Nissan Armada, and the Jeep Wagoneer. First used for a 1992 F-150 concept vehicle, Ford first marketed the Expedition nameplate for 1995 on a trim level package for the two-door Ford Explorer Sport. As with its Bronco predecessor, the Expedition is heavily derives its chassis from the Ford F-150, differing primarily in suspension configuration. All five generations of the Expedition have served as the basis of the Lincoln Navigator–the first full-size luxury SUV. The model line is produced in two wheelbases (an extended-wheelbase variant introduced was introduced for 2007, largely replacing the Ford Excursion), with seating for up to eight passengers. Ford currently assembles the Expedition at its Kentucky Truck Assembly facility (Louisville, Kentucky) alongside the Lincoln Navigator and Super Duty trucks. Prior to 2009, the model line was assembled by the Michigan Assembly Plant (Wayne, Michigan).

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Brand: Ford Model: Expedition
Price: $28,885 Mileage: 82,142 mi.

12. **Jeep Wrangler (2022)**The Jeep Wrangler stands as an icon of off-road prowess and rugged design, instantly recognizable for its adventurous spirit. While its ability to conquer challenging terrain is undisputed, its performance in modern crash tests, particularly for the 2022 model, reveals that its tough exterior doesn’t fully translate into superior occupant protection under all conditions.

A significant concern for the Jeep Wrangler lies in its “higher-than-average rollover risks,” a characteristic that has historically been associated with vehicles of its high-profile and narrow wheelbase. This inherent design aspect means that in certain dynamic situations, the vehicle is more susceptible to tipping, increasing the potential for severe consequences for its occupants.

Furthermore, the IIHS awarded the 2022 Wrangler a “marginal rating across several crash tests,” including specific weaknesses identified in the side-impact test. This designation from a leading safety authority indicates that, despite its perceived robustness, the Wrangler offers only limited protection in common collision types. For those drawn to its adventurous appeal, these safety compromises warrant careful consideration alongside its off-road capabilities.

Car Model Information: 2015 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sahara
Name: Jeep Wrangler
Caption: Jeep Wrangler Unlimited, Sahara edition
Manufacturer: Jeep
Class: Compact SUV
Production: 1986–present
Predecessor: Jeep CJ
Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout,rear-wheel drive
Chassis: Body-on-frame
Related: AIL Storm
Categories: 1980s cars, 1990s cars, 2000s cars, 2010s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles
Summary: The Jeep Wrangler is a series of compact and mid-size four-wheel drive off-road SUVs manufactured by Jeep since 1986, and currently in its fourth generation. The Wrangler JL, the most recent generation, was unveiled in late 2017 and is produced at Jeep’s Toledo Complex. The Wrangler is a direct progression from the World War II Jeep, through the CJ (Civilian Jeeps) produced by Willys, Kaiser-Jeep, and American Motors Corporation (AMC) from the mid-1940s through the 1980s. Although neither AMC nor Chrysler (after it purchased AMC in 1987) have claimed that the Wrangler was a direct descendant of the original military model — both the CJ Jeeps and the conceptually consistent Wrangler, with their solid axles and open top, have been called the Jeep model as central to Jeep’s brand identity as the rear-engine 911 is to Porsche. Similar to the Willys MB and the CJ Jeeps before it, all Wrangler models continue to use a separate body and frame, rigid live axles both front and rear, a tapering nose design with flared fenders, a fold-flat windshield, and can be driven without doors. Also, with few exceptions, they have part-time four-wheel drive systems, with the choice of high and low gearing, and standard open bodies with removable hard or soft tops. However, the Wrangler series was specifically redesigned to be safer and more comfortable on-road, to attract more daily drivers, by upgrading its suspension, drivetrain, and interior, compared to the CJ line. The suspension on all Wranglers included trackbars and anti-roll bars, and, from the 1997 TJ onwards, front and rear coil springs instead of the previous leaf springs. From 2004 on, the Wrangler has been complemented with long-wheelbase versions, called Wrangler Unlimited. 2004-2006 models were longer versions with 2 doors. In 2004, only automatic transmission-equipped “Unlimited” versions were sold. In 2005, both an automatic and manual 6-speed (NSG-370) were offered. Since 2007, the long-wheelbase Wranglers were four-door models, offering over 20 in (508 mm) more room. By mid-2017, the four-door models represented three-quarters of all new Wranglers on the market.

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Brand: Jeep Model: Wrangler
Price: $22,495 Mileage: 45,877 mi.

13. **Buick Encore (2023)**The Buick Encore, often valued for its compact size and perceived reliability, has carved a niche in the small SUV market. While it might meet expectations for everyday usability and comfort, its crash test performance for the 2023 model year presents a notable departure from what safety-conscious consumers would hope for, signaling significant areas of concern.

A critical finding from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) is the 2023 Encore’s “Poor” rating in its moderate overlap test. This specific test evaluates how well the vehicle protects occupants in a common type of frontal collision, and a “Poor” rating indicates substantial structural compromise and a high risk of injury. Such a severe deficiency is a major red flag that overshadows other aspects of the vehicle’s appeal.

While the context also mentions that the Encore received an “acceptable” rating in the IIHS’s new, tougher side crash test, this positive point does not negate the fundamental flaw exposed by its “Poor” rating in the moderate overlap frontal test. Consumers prioritizing occupant protection in frontal impacts should view this particular shortcoming as a serious deterrent, making it imperative to consider other compact SUVs with more consistent and robust safety records.

Car Model Information: 2024 Buick Encore GX Sport Touring
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: $20,700 Mileage: 21,988 mi.

14. **Dodge Journey**The Dodge Journey, often positioned as a crossover SUV, has always occupied a somewhat ambiguous space in the market, with an appearance that blurs the lines between a traditional SUV and a minivan. Its availability for several years made it a familiar sight, yet its safety performance, particularly concerning critical impact scenarios, has consistently presented areas of concern for drivers and passengers.

While the Journey reportedly “performed reasonably well in frontal crash tests,” its integrity significantly diminished in other vital areas of accident protection. Most notably, the vehicle “hasn’t done as well in side-impact tests.” This deficiency is particularly concerning, as side collisions can lead to severe intrusion into the passenger compartment, posing a high risk of injury to occupants due to the limited crumple zone available.

For a vehicle often chosen for its capacity to transport families, the persistent weakness in side-impact protection represents a critical safety compromise. This highlights that a vehicle’s overall safety profile is only as strong as its weakest link, and adequate protection in all common crash types is essential. Potential buyers must therefore weigh the Journey’s practicality against these documented shortcomings in comprehensive occupant safety.

Car Model Information: 2019 Dodge Journey SE
Name: Dodge Journey
Caption: 2012 Dodge Journey
Manufacturer: Dodge
Aka: Fiat Freemont,Dodge JC (Japan),Dodge JCUV (China)
Production: 2008–2020
ModelYears: 2009–2020,2011–2015 (Freemont)
Assembly: Toluca, Mexico
Designer: Ryan Nagode
Class: Mid-size crossover SUV
BodyStyle: SUV
Platform: Mitsubishi GS platform
Related: Chrysler 200,Chrysler Sebring,Dodge Avenger
Layout: Front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout
Engine: ubl
Transmission: Ultradrive#40TES/41TES
Wheelbase: 2890 mm
Abbr: on
Order: flip
Length: 192.4 in
Width: 72.2 in
Height: 66.6 in
Weight: 3818 lb
Predecessor: Fiat Ulysse,Fiat Croma
Successor: Dodge Journey (2021)
Categories: 2010s cars, 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All articles with dead external links, All articles with unsourced statements
Summary: The Dodge Journey is a mid-size crossover SUV manufactured and marketed by Fiat Chrysler Automobiles’ Dodge brand for model years 2009 to 2020 over a single generation, with a facelift for the 2011 model year. The Journey was styled by Ryan Nagode, and was marketed globally in both left- and right-hand drive, including as the Fiat Freemont. Internally identified as the JC49, the Journey shares FCA’s global D-segment platform with the Dodge Avenger and a nearly identical wheelbase to the outgoing short-wheelbase (SWB) Dodge Caravan. Having debuted at the 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show, the Journey subsequently appeared at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show. All models were manufactured in Mexico at FCA’s Toluca Assembly facility, with just over 1.1 million manufactured before production ended in 2020.

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Brand: Dodge Model: Journey
Price: $13,562 Mileage: 83,381 mi.

“2023 Ford Escape 1X7A1988” by Alexander-93 is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

15. **Ford Escape**The Ford Escape has long been a popular choice in the compact SUV segment, known for its balance of practicality, efficiency, and a comfortable ride. However, as safety testing methodologies become increasingly rigorous, even established models like the Escape are finding it challenging to maintain top-tier ratings across all parameters, revealing vulnerabilities in their protective design.

In the IIHS’s new, tougher side crash test, the Ford Escape received a “marginal” rating. This test, designed to simulate more severe side impacts with a heavier barrier and higher speed, exposed limitations in the Escape’s ability to protect its occupants. A “marginal” score signifies that while the vehicle might offer some protection, it is considerably less robust than vehicles achieving “acceptable” or “good” ratings in the same demanding scenario.

The implication of a “marginal” rating in such a critical test is clear: the Escape’s structural integrity and occupant containment in severe side-impact collisions are not optimal. For consumers who prioritize the highest level of safety for themselves and their passengers, particularly in an era of ever-evolving safety standards, this finding suggests that the Ford Escape may fall short of providing comprehensive crash protection, urging a closer look at competitors that have excelled in these updated evaluations.

***

Car Model Information: 2023 Ford Escape ST-Line
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.

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Brand: Ford Model: Escape
Price: $20,790 Mileage: 49,987 mi.

The insights gleaned from these rigorous crash tests by organizations like the IIHS and NHTSA serve as a vital compass for consumers navigating the complex automotive market. They shatter the illusion that size or brand reputation alone guarantees safety, instead providing a data-driven reality check. As manufacturers strive to meet these escalating benchmarks, it becomes increasingly clear that buyers hold the power to demand better. By making informed choices based on these detailed safety reports, consumers can accelerate the industry’s progress towards a future where every journey, in every SUV, is truly as safe as possible.