The IIHS (U.S. Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) has conducted a new series of crash tests for five recently released compact vehicles. None of them has passed the rear passenger safety test.
The testing method involves seating a mannequin of a woman or teenager on a second-row seat behind the driver. All participants – Subaru Crosstrek/XV, Nissan Sentra, Kia Forte, Toyota Corolla and Honda Civic – had their points deducted for mannequins slipping from under their loose safety belts during impact. This safety defect is often associated with abdominal injuries.
In conclusion, the IIHS called upon all carmakers to review their stance on rear passenger protection and begin with a redesign of the rear safety belt.