The Ford Explorer, a popular SUV choice for families, underwent rigorous crash testing by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). This article analyzes the results of these tests, focusing on the small overlap front crash scenario, to provide insights into the Explorer’s safety performance.
Action shot of a 2020 Ford Explorer during a driver-side small overlap crash test.
Ford Explorer Small Overlap Crash Test Results: A Detailed Look
The IIHS small overlap front test simulates a crash where the front corner of a vehicle strikes an object like a tree or utility pole. This challenging test assesses how well a vehicle’s structure protects occupants in such a scenario. The Ford Explorer’s performance in this test has evolved over the years.
Initially, the 2020 Ford Explorer received an Acceptable rating in the driver-side small overlap test. High forces recorded on the dummy’s left lower leg indicated a potential for significant injury. Ford responded by modifying the front subframe structure in models built after May 2020.
Forces recorded during the initial small overlap test indicated a moderate risk of injury to the dummy’s lower leg and foot.
Retesting a post-May 2020 Explorer revealed a significant improvement, earning a Good rating. The structural changes successfully reduced lower leg/foot injury risk, showcasing Ford’s commitment to enhancing safety.
Post-crash analysis of the improved Ford Explorer shows good maintenance of the driver’s survival space.
Passenger-Side Small Overlap Test: Maintaining a Good Rating
The passenger-side small overlap test mirrors the driver-side test, evaluating occupant protection on the opposite side of the vehicle. The Ford Explorer, incorporating the same structural enhancements, consistently achieved a Good rating in this test for models built after May 2020. This signifies that both driver and passenger receive comparable protection in a small overlap frontal crash.
Beyond the Small Overlap: A Comprehensive Safety Assessment
While the small overlap test is crucial, the IIHS evaluates vehicles across various crash scenarios. The Ford Explorer also received Good ratings in moderate overlap front, side, and roof strength tests. These results, combined with available advanced safety features like automatic emergency braking and pedestrian detection, contribute to the Explorer’s overall safety profile. However, the updated moderate overlap front test, which includes a rear passenger, revealed an area for potential improvement, with the rear passenger head/neck injury measures receiving an Acceptable rating.
In the updated moderate overlap test, the rear passenger dummy’s head approached the front seatback, increasing the risk of head injury.
Understanding the Ratings: What Do They Mean for Consumers?
The IIHS ratings provide valuable information for consumers considering the Ford Explorer. A “Good” rating signifies a high level of protection in a given crash scenario. Understanding these ratings empowers informed decisions and highlights the importance of vehicle safety when choosing an SUV. While the Explorer excelled in many areas, the initial small overlap test results and the acceptable rating in the updated moderate overlap front test highlight the continuous evolution of safety standards and the importance of manufacturers’ ongoing commitment to improvement.
The Ford Explorer performed well in the side impact test, receiving a Good overall evaluation.
