Overall crashworthiness evaluations, current models

SMALL SUVs

  • See earlier model ratings in this vehicle class
  • How tests are conducted and how the Institute determines ratings
  • Important: frontal crash test ratings can be compared only among vehicles of similar weight; side impact crash test ratings can be compared across vehicle type and weight categories.
  • Click on front, side, or rear for test details. Vehicles are listed in order of performance in crash tests.
  • Electronic stability control availability — click on "ESC" for trade names of this feature.

Legend for vehicle ratings: =Good =Acceptable =Marginal =Poor


2008 Top Safety Pick Volkswagen Tiguan 2009 models with standard but without additional optional side airbags
ESC
standard
2008 Top Safety Pick Honda CR-V 2008 models with standard side airbags
ESC
standard
2008 Top Safety Pick Honda Element 2008 models with standard side airbags
ESC
standard
2008 Top Safety Pick Subaru Forester 2009 models with standard side airbags
ESC
standard
2008 Top Safety Pick Mitsubishi Outlander 2008 models with standard side airbags
ESC
standard
2008 Top Safety Pick Ford Escape Mazda Tribute Mercury Mariner 2009 models with standard side airbags
ESC
standard
2008 Top Safety Pick Nissan Rogue 2009 models with standard side airbags
ESC
standard
Jeep Patriot Jeep Compass 2008 models with standard and additional optional side airbags
ESC
standard
Toyota RAV4 2008 models with standard side airbags
ESC
standard
Suzuki Grand Vitara 2008 models with standard side airbags
ESC
standard
Hyundai Tucson Kia Sportage 2008 models (mfg. after Mar. 2008) with standard side airbags
Rear
Hyundai
Kia
ESC
standard
Jeep Patriot Jeep Compass 2008 models with standard but without additional optional side airbags
ESC
standard
Chevrolet Equinox Pontiac Torrent 2008 models without optional side airbags
ESC
standard
Jeep Wrangler 2-door 2008 models without optional side airbags
ESC
standard

Notes:

  1. This rating is assigned by the Institute based on a test conducted by the manufacturer as part of frontal crash test verification.
  2. Earlier model tested had optional side airbags; side airbags standard in current models.
  3. Front rating applies only to Patriot.

Additional information:
Frontal technical measurements for small SUVs
Side impact technical measurements for small SUVs

©1996-2008, Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, Highway Loss Data Institute
1005 N. Glebe Road, Suite 800, Arlington, VA 22201 USA | tel 703/247-1500 | fax 703/247-1588