NHTSA Releases SUV Safety Ratings

August 2004

Approximately 40% of all vehicles on the road are minivans, SUVs, and pickups. Rollover accidents have become a prime safety issue. Until this year, the government had tested the safety of these vehicles by using mathematical formulas. Now, for the first time under mandate by Congress, safety ratings include real test-drive results.

In addition to the 5-star safety rating familiar to most consumers, a rollover estimation percentage has been added to the rating. Many vehicles may achieve the same safety star rating, but this new percentage helps consumers to better qualify the rating.

For example: two SUVs may have 4-star ratings. However, the chance of rollover for one of those SUVs may be rated at 13% more likely. The other may be 20% more likely to rollover in an accident.

The new rating system has already prompted a recall. General Motors recalled 250,000 Saturn Vues after rollover testing showed its left rear suspension system failed.

In addition, Ford announced in July that stability measures such as rollover sensors and electronic stability controls would be standard in all Explorers, Mercury Mountaineers, and Lincoln Aviators and Navigators.

Overall, more than one-third of the 2004 model sport utility vehicles tested showed a tendency to rollover. In 2003, 4,451 people died in SUV accidents. This is an increase of 11% from 2002. Of those fatal accidents, 61% involved rollovers.

Sales of truck-based SUVs are starting to slack. To date, sales are up just 1.3% in 2004. Meanwhile, sales of car-based SUVs are up 16% during the same time period.

The highest ratings- and lowest rollover percentages - were given to the Chrysler Pacifica, Nissan Murano, and Honda Pilot, all of which are built on car platforms. The lowest rating - and highest rollover percentage at 35% - was given to the Ford Explorer Sport Trac (two-wheel drive ).

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