In an age where automotive technology has reached new heights, from advanced driver-assistance systems to electric propulsion, it’s alarming that some vehicles still fall significantly short in basic safety measures. This article highlights these vehicles, analyzing why they have garnered poor safety reviews and what inherent design flaws or omissions make them risky for consumers.
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Mitsubishi Mirage (2014-2020)
The Mitsubishi Mirage has often scored poorly in safety tests, particularly frontal crash tests. The small car lacks some of the advanced safety features commonly found in newer vehicles, such as lane departure warning or collision mitigation. Reports suggest that the Mirage’s light weight makes it less stable in a crash compared to other vehicles.
Fiat 500 (2012-2019)
The Fiat 500 has faced criticism for its poor crash-test ratings, particularly in side and frontal crash tests. Its small size and lightweight build contribute to its lesser ability to withstand impacts effectively. In addition, the vehicle doesn’t offer as many advanced safety features like forward collision warning.
Nissan Versa (2012-2018)
This vehicle has received low marks in safety due to poor side-impact and frontal-impact crash test scores. The Versa also historically lacked standard safety features like electronic stability control and anti-lock brakes in its base models, making it less capable of preventing an accident in the first place.
Dodge Grand Caravan (2011-2020)
Although minivans are often considered safe family vehicles, the Dodge Grand Caravan has received poor ratings in safety tests. It particularly struggled with the small-overlap frontal crash test, a measure of how well a vehicle can handle a crash affecting a smaller portion of its front end.
Chevrolet Colorado Extended Cab (2015-2019)
This pickup truck had mediocre safety scores, particularly its poor performance in driver-side small overlap front tests. Such conditions simulate a collision with an object like a tree or utility pole, where the vehicle’s front corner takes the brunt of the impact.
Kia Rio (2012-2017)
The compact Kia Rio had poor scores in side and front impact tests. Its lightweight structure was less capable of absorbing and distributing impact forces, leading to higher risks during collisions.
Ford Mustang (2015-2017)
Although a popular sports car, the Mustang had issues with its safety ratings. In Euro NCAP tests, it received only two stars out of five, particularly scoring poorly in frontal and side crash scenarios.
Jeep Wrangler (2011-2018)
The Jeep Wrangler is often praised for its off-road capabilities but generally has poor safety ratings. The lack of advanced safety features and poor small-overlap crash test results are some of its drawbacks.
Toyota Yaris (2012-2018)
Earlier models of the Toyota Yaris received poor ratings in crash tests, particularly for the front passenger-side small overlap test, indicating less protection in a type of collision that’s not uncommon in the real world.
Nissan Frontier (2012-2019)
The Nissan Frontier pickup scored poorly in small-overlap and roof-strength tests, suggesting a lack of structural integrity during certain types of collisions.
Hyundai Accent (2012-2016)
This compact car generally has poor crash test ratings, specifically in side and frontal impact tests. The Accent’s lightweight frame and lack of advanced safety features contribute to its low safety rating.
This article originally appeared on MyCarMakesNoise.
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