SUVs are a popular vehicle choice for many drivers. But the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration points out they're more likely to roll over than cars. Here's a list of the highest safety-rated SUVs for 2009 in crash tests done by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
Small SUVs
The top three rated by the insurance institute are: Volkswagen Tiguan, Honda Element and Subaru Forester. These three were also the top-ranked small SUVs in the Institute's roof strength test.
Midsize SUVs
The top three are: the Honda Pilot, the Subaru Tribeca and the Toyota FJ Cruiser. The Tribeca has a choice of five- or seven-passenger models, and the Pilot can have a third-row seat. Edmunds auto reviews says the FJ Cruiser is known for its distinct looks and off-road abilities.
Midsize Luxury SUVs
The institute ranks the Acura MDX first, followed by the BMW X5 and the Infiniti EX35. The 2009 MDX was also ranked the No. 1 Luxury Midsize SUV by U.S. News World Report, which bases its ranking on test drives as well reliability and safety data.
Large SUV
Top rated was the Audi Q7, described as a luxury SUV that seats up to seven people, handles well on the road but doesn't have the best fuel efficiency. There was a four-way tie for second: the GMC Acadia, Buick Enclave, Chevrolet Traverse and Saturn Outlook.
What the Institute Tests
According to the website, the institute tries to determine how well a vehicle will protect its occupants during a crash. This includes front and side crash tests and evaluations of seat and head restraints. And the winning vehicles must offer electronic stability control.
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