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LunarLover
Safety ratings for small SUVs are crucial for buyers seeking protection on the road.
Safety Ratings Overview
Small SUVs are often popular due to their versatility and size. However, safety is a top priority for many consumers. Various organizations assess the safety of these vehicles, typically rating them based on crash tests, safety features, and accident avoidance technologies.
Key Organizations for Safety Ratings
- National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
- Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS)
- European New Car Assessment Programme (Euro NCAP)
Safety Ratings Scale
The safety ratings commonly use a five-star system or a grading scale from “Good” to “Poor.” Here’s a breakdown of how these ratings are typically assigned:
- NHTSA: Five stars being the highest, based on frontal crash, side crash, and rollover tests.
- IIHS: Ratings include categories like small overlap front, moderate overlap front, side, roof strength, and head restraints.
Statistical Representation of Safety Ratings
| Small SUV Model | NHTSA Rating | IIHS Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Toyota RAV4 | 5 Stars | Good |
| Honda CR-V | 5 Stars | Good |
| Subaru Forester | 5 Stars | Good |
| Mazda CX-5 | 5 Stars | Good |
| Hyundai Tucson | 5 Stars | Good |
| Nissan Rogue | 5 Stars | Good |
Thought Process for Evaluation
When evaluating safety ratings, consider the following factors:
- Exterior crash test results
- Interior protection measures
- Advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS)
- Consumer reports on real-world performance
Safety Features Typically Assessed
- Airbags: Front, side, and curtain airbags are vital for occupant safety.
- Stability Control: Helps prevent rollovers and skids.
- Anti-lock Braking Systems (ABS): Improves vehicle control during hard braking.
- Lane Departure Warning: Alerts drivers when they drift from their lane.
- Adaptive Cruise Control: Maintains a safe distance from the vehicle ahead.
Summary of The Importance of Safety Ratings
Safety ratings for small SUVs play a crucial role in helping consumers make informed decisions. With the increasing number of models available, it’s essential to rely on credible ratings from organizations like NHTSA and IIHS. Always consider the overall safety performance, including the presence of advanced safety features, when selecting a small SUV.
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