they are generally safe due to their larger size and higher center of gravity. The updated one of its recent essential tests to improve the safety of front and rear passengers. Only four unlikely midsize SUVs passed this test, while nine failed to provide excellent protection. , Tesla and Subaru offered the best protection for drivers and passengers in the updated test.
Two unlikely midsize SUVs scored excellent scores in the new IIHS test
Every year, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety updates its tests to ensure vehicles become safer. In 2023, the organization updated many aspects of the test, including an updated moderate overlap head-on test. Out of 13 midsize SUVs tested, it says only four unlikely midsize SUVs scored the highest score of “good.”
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The 2023 Ford Mustang Mach-E also performed well in the new moderate-overlap head-on test. Ford’s popular electric SUV actually scored the highest score of “good” in all 10 subtests in this segment. One area that held the Mach-E back was the headlights. The LED projector headlights on the Premium and GT trims gave the best results in testing. LED reflector headlamps could use some upgrades on Select and California Route 1 trims.
Two unlikely midsize SUVs from Tesla and Subaru also scored high
To get the best score, these unlikely midsize SUVs had to protect the backseat passenger as well as the driver. The IIHS used sensors in the second row dummy to measure movements and help assess the risk of injury. These new secure SUVs underneath and the two Fords protected the rear passengers the best.
For the following two unlikely SUVs, the 2023 Subaru Ascent and 2023 Tesla Model Y were the only other options to pass the updated moderate-overlap front-end test. Subaru is known for its safe but usually has more company than the segment. Either way, the Ascent protected the driver and rear passengers during testing. It was enough to win this year’s Top Safety Pick Plus award.
The 2023 Tesla Model Y performed well in all segments of the updated test. It protected the driver and rear passengers well in testing and scored highly in the new front crash avoidance tests. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety prefers LED projector headlights on the Performance trim over LED reflector headlights on the Long Range trim.
Six SUVs scored “poor” in the updated test
Some other midsize SUVs scored lower than “marginal”. These include the 2023 Chevrolet Traverse and the 2023 Volkswagen Atlas. Tests indicated that the risk of injury to the rear passenger’s head or neck was higher in these options. The seat belt tension was too high on the Traverse and Atlas, increasing the risk of chest injuries.
Six midsize SUVs didn’t protect the rear passengers enough. The 2023 Honda Pilot, 2023 Hyundai Palisade, 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee, 2023 Jeep Wrangler 4-Door, 2023 Mazda CX-9, and 2023 Nissan Murano all scored “poor.”
The good news is that most automakers move quickly to improve safety after receiving a negative rating like this one from the IIHS. While some of these SUVs didn’t offer enough protection at this time, most brands will be moving to add more safety measures to protect rear-seat passengers. For now, the four unlikely midsize SUVs from Ford, Tesla and Subaru offer the best protection in this segment.
