Choosing the right SUV for your family involves many considerations, but safety should be at the top of your list. As we look towards 2024, understanding what constitutes a safe SUV is more critical than ever. Organizations like the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) are continuously updating their safety standards, pushing automakers to enhance vehicle protection for everyone on the road.
The IIHS, known for its rigorous crash testing, plays a vital role in guiding consumers towards the safest vehicles. Their Top Safety Pick and Top Safety Pick+ awards are highly sought after by manufacturers, representing a commitment to superior safety performance. These awards are not static; they evolve to address real-world accident scenarios and encourage the adoption of new safety technologies. For example, the updated moderate overlap test reflects ongoing efforts to improve occupant protection in common crash situations.
What makes an SUV earn these top safety accolades? Several factors come into play, starting with robust performance in various crash tests. These include the driver- and passenger-side small overlap front crash tests, which simulate impacts with fixed objects or other vehicles at angles. SUVs must demonstrate strong structural integrity and effective occupant restraint systems in these demanding scenarios. Beyond crashworthiness, headlight performance is also a crucial aspect. The IIHS mandates high-performing headlights across all trim levels of a vehicle, recognizing the importance of visibility in preventing accidents.
Jennifer Stockburger, director of operations at Consumer Reports’ Auto Test Center, emphasizes the continuous improvement driven by these safety ratings. “Each iteration means the next step in identifying cars that provide the highest levels of safety,” she notes, highlighting the direct benefit to consumers seeking the safest vehicles for their families. This progress extends to all occupants, including those in the rear seats.
Emily A. Thomas, PhD, auto safety manager at Consumer Reports, points out the critical importance of rear-seat safety. Historically, safety advancements have focused more on front-seat occupants. However, both Consumer Reports and IIHS are actively promoting and evaluating rear-seat safety technologies. By incorporating rear-seat safety assessments into their ratings, they are encouraging manufacturers to extend advanced safety features to all passengers, ensuring comprehensive protection in the safest SUVs of 2024 and beyond.
When considering the safest SUVs in 2024, look beyond just the model name. Delve into the IIHS and Consumer Reports safety ratings to understand how specific vehicles perform in these crucial tests. Prioritizing these safety evaluations will help you make an informed decision and choose an SUV that truly puts your family’s protection first.
