2010 Nissan Frontier achieves top scores in the IIHS crash tests
Posted in Nissan Trucks, Trucking News on February 11, 2010
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has tested various compact pick up trucks for side impact crashes and rollover crashes and was not very satisfied with the results. The only truck to score ‘good’ scores was 2010 Nissan Frontier which is similar to the 2010 Suzuki Equator. It scored good scores for the roof crush protection while the second place was bagged by Ford Ranger with acceptable scores while Dodge Dakota, Chevrolet Colorado, and Toyota Tacoma scored low scores.
The side impact crash tests also did not have makes takers for full scores. However, Nissan frontier, Ford Ranger and Toyota Tacoma scored good scores while the Colorado scored the lowest poor rating. The Dodge Dakota that is equipped with optional side airbags failed to prove them self during the crash road test. However it has been decided that the Dodge Dakota will be retested with functional safety airbags at a later date.
It is imperative to score ‘Good’ roof crush test as Pick up trucks have higher chances of rollover than most crossover and SUV’s.
To score the Good rating from IIHS, it is important that the roof of the pick up trucks is twice as strong as the minimum requirement. It has been strongly argued that the minimum requirement laid does not completely safe gaud the occupants during a rollover.
The IIHS offered a Good rating only if the roof withstands four times the vehicle weight before crushing 5 inches.
