Recent crash tests by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) revealed that not all midsized luxury SUVs provide adequate protection for rear passengers. While some models excelled, others lagged in rear seat safety. Here's a breakdown of the results.

Top Performers

These SUVs scored "Good" ratings for both front and rear seat protection in the IIHS moderate overlap frontal test:

Lincoln Aviator
- Shares its platform with the Ford Explorer, which also scored well.

Mercedes-Benz GLE

Volvo XC60

Lower-Ranked Models

Acura MDX and BMW X3
- Scored “Acceptable” due to rear seatbelt fit issues.

Audi Q5 and Lexus RX
- Earned “Marginal” ratings; rear passenger safety needs improvement.

Cadillac XT6
- Scored “Poor,” with high risks of chest, head, and neck injuries for rear passengers.

Key Safety Challenges Identified

Submarining:
- Occurs when passengers slide below the lap belt in a crash, exposing the abdomen to dangerous forces.
- Observed in the Acura MDX, Lexus RX, Audi Q5, and Cadillac XT6.

Rear Seatbelt Fit:
- Poor belt engagement with the hip bones increases injury risks.

Crash-Test Results:
- Dummy measurements from the Cadillac XT6 showed high risks of severe injuries, particularly to the chest.

Steps Automakers Can Take to Improve

Better Seatbelt Designs:
- Adjust belts to better engage passengers' hip bones and prevent submarining.

Advanced Safety Features:
- Implement seatbelt pretensioners and load limiters for rear seats, already common in front seats.

Redesigns:
- Automakers tend to respond to IIHS testing by improving safety in newer models.

What This Means for Consumers

• Rear Seat Safety Matters: While front seat protection has improved significantly, rear passengers still face risks in many models.
• Mainstream Models Need Work: Safety improvements shouldn’t be limited to luxury SUVs; all manufacturers should prioritize rear seat safety.
• Rear Seat Still Safest for Kids: Despite these issues, the rear seat remains the safest place for children under 13.

By focusing on safety improvements, automakers can better protect passengers of all ages, ensuring that advancements aren’t confined to high-end vehicles.

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