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Crashworthiness News
"Small Cars from Hyundai, Toyota Crash Test Poorly"
January 4, 2007
Some small economy cars made by Toyota and Hyundai Motor Corp. received low side-impact crash test ratings in new crash tests, according to the insurance industry, illustrating a downside of driving small cars.
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety tested the smallest economy cars from many manufacturers for their ability to protect occupants in severe crashes. Here are some of the test results:
The Good
- 2007 Nissan Versa - This car received the highest possible scores in front, side, and rear crash tests. It comes with side curtain airbag standard.
- 2007 Toyota Yaris with optional side airbags - The Yaris, when fitted with the optional side airbags got the highest ratings possible on front and side crash tests.
- 2007 Honda Fit - The Fit comes with standard side airbags and also got the highest possible front and side crash test ratings.
The Bad
The following small vehicles all received the lowest possible crash ratings for side-impact protection:
- 2007 Toyota Yaris without side airbags
- 2007 Scion xB
- 2007 Hyundai Accent
- 2007 Kia Rio
Increase in Number of Small Cars Raises Concerns
The institute said they began to these economy vehicles because they have become more popular as a result of high gas prices. Most of these vehicles weigh about 2,500 lbs. For comparison, a Honda Accord sedan weighs about 3,200 lbs, and a Hummer H2 weighs about 6,400 lbs.
The small size of these vehicles raises concerns because of how they interact with larger vehicles in crashes. "People traveling in small, light cars are at a disadvantage, especially when they collide with bigger, heavier vehicles. The laws of physics dictate this," said Adrian Land, the institute's president.
Injured in a car accident caused by a car defect? Please contact us today for a free consultation with a seasoned and sympathetic personal injury attorney. You may be eligible to obtain compensation for your medical expenses, missed work, pain, suffering, and more.
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