Crash Tests: Some SUVs Perform Worse Than Cars

Certain late-model sport-utility vehicles (SUVs) performed worse than a number of cars in crash tests, based on test results released Thursday by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The Jeep Grand Cherokee and Chevrolet TrailBlazer were among the worst SUV performers in "serious side crashes." According to Reuters, the fact that certain SUVs performed worse than standard-size cars "challenges a belief among consumers that sport utility occupants are safer in some crashes because they are heavier than cars and occupants are seated higher."

• IIHS News Release (includes links to full test results)
• Reuters: Some Recent SUVs Less Safe Than Cars
• Safety Search: Vehicles and Equipment (FindLaw)
• Motor Vehicle Accidents (FindLaw)