Rear-Seat Safety Test Reveals Poor Performance in Some 2023 Midsize Vehicles
Introduction
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) conducted a rear-seat safety test on seven 2023 midsize vehicles. Unfortunately, three models, namely the 2023 Kia K5, 2023 Volkswagen Jetta, and 2023 Hyundai Sonata, performed poorly in the test.
Poor Ratings and Test Results
The IIHS announced on Wednesday that the aforementioned models received a “poor” rating in the new moderate overlap front crash test. The measurements from the dummy used in these vehicles indicated potential head or neck injuries, chest injuries, and excessive belt forces.
Additionally, in the Jetta, the dummy’s head came too close to the front seatback, while in the K5 and Sonata, the shoulder belt moved off the dummy’s shoulder towards the neck.
Good and Acceptable Ratings
On a positive note, the 2023 Honda Accord was the only model to receive a good rating, with no heightened risk of injuries observed. The Accord’s rear restraints effectively controlled the dummy’s motion. Meanwhile, the 2023 Subaru Outback was rated acceptable for rear passenger safety, and the 2023 Nissan Altima and the 2023 Toyota Camry received a marginal rating.
Concerns and Recommendations
According to IIHS President David Harkey, dummies in almost all tested vehicles experienced submarining, which refers to sliding forward beneath the lap belt. This movement increases the risk of internal injuries. However, the Accord and Jetta were the exceptions, as the dummies did not submarine in these models.
The IIHS highlights that all seven models demonstrated good protection in the front seat. However, it is worth noting that the risk of injury is higher for rear passengers in newer vehicles due to safety advancements in the front. Nevertheless, the rear seat remains the safest location for young children.
Aside from midsize vehicles, the IIHS has also recently conducted rear-seat safety tests on small cars and small trucks.
