Here at Jalopnik, we’re huge fans of minivans. They may not have the same level of coolness as SUVs, but their practicality is hard to ignore. And let’s face it, nobody is saying, “Damn, check out that badass Toyota Highlander.” However, a recent test by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) reveals that none of the minivans currently available in the U.S. excel in rear seat safety, which is an area of concern.
According to IIHS, the updated moderate overlap front crash test was introduced because the risk of fatal injury for second-row passengers wearing seatbelts has surpassed that of the driver and front passenger. However, it’s crucial to note that this doesn’t mean the second and third rows have become more dangerous. It simply indicates that the front seats have become even safer than before. It’s still recommended for children to ride in the back until they are old enough for the front seat.
In recent minivan tests conducted by IIHS, none of them received an acceptable or good rating. The Chrysler Pacifica, Kia Carnival, and Toyota Sienna were given a marginal rating, while the Honda Odyssey received a poor rating. Only the Sienna came with seatbelt reminders for second-row passengers.
Jessica Jermakian, IIHS vice president of vehicle research, stated, “The restraint systems in all four vehicles leave the second-row occupants vulnerable to chest injuries, either due to excessive belt forces or poor belt positioning. That’s concerning because those injuries can be life-threatening.”
In addition to being the only minivan equipped with rear seatbelt reminders, the Sienna also features belt pre-tensioners and force limiters. However, during the test, the rear test dummy still slid beneath the lap belt, and the shoulder belt was too close to the dummy’s neck. In the two marginally rated minivans, the seatbelt applied excessive force to the test dummy’s chest. Furthermore, the Pacifica’s side curtain airbag did not deploy during the test. As for the Honda Odyssey, the rear test dummies experienced even more force on their heads and necks, and the third-row seatbelt failed to prevent the dummy’s head from dangerously approaching the seat in front.
IIHS President David Harkey expressed disappointment, saying, “Back seat safety is important for all vehicles, but it’s especially vital for minivans, as customers choose them specifically for family transportation. It’s regrettable that automakers haven’t acted promptly to incorporate the best available technology in the second row of this vehicle class.”
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