The Lexus ES350 has one of the Lowest rates of driver deaths per million registered vehicle years, 2020 and equivalent earlier models, 2018-21, along with the X3, E-Class and Pathfinder. Photo from: www.lexus.com.ph
Auto & Tech | Safer Roads, Safer Rides: IIHS Safety Ratings for Vehicles in the Philippines | Kumusta mga kaibigan! Kuya Mark here, and today, we’re gonna talk about something a bit more serious than our usual rides – vehicle safety, specifically from the lens of the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety or IIHS, all the way from the U.S.
On the Risky Road?
Mga kaibigan, some of our favorite models back home in the Philippines are taking the lead, but unfortunately in a less desirable way. Yes, the Mitsubishi Mirage G4 and Mirage hatchback top the list with high driver death rates. Hyundai Accent, Chevrolet Spark, and Kia Rio sedan also appear on this list. Our beloved midsize cars, Nissan Altima and Kia Optima, and small cars like the Kia Forte and Hyundai Elantra sedan, aren’t far behind. Even compact SUVs like the Chevrolet Malibu and Ford EcoSport 2WD have high death rates.
Sounds alarming, ‘di ba? But remember, we must factor in our unique driving conditions, laws, and typical usage patterns back home when interpreting these results.
Safer Rides?
Now onto a happier note, the IIHS study also brings us good news. Models like the BMW X3 4WD, Lexus ES 350, and Nissan Pathfinder 2WD have zero driver deaths, that’s right – ZERO! Midsize SUVs such as the Toyota C-HR, Nissan Murano 2WD, Subaru Ascent, and Chevrolet Traverse 4WD also follow closely with their low death rates. Even the very large minivans, the Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna 2WD make it to the safer end of the spectrum.
What about the Other Drivers?
Mga kaibigan, let’s not forget about our kapwa drivers. According to the IIHS data, models like the Kia Optima, Kia Rio sedan, Nissan Altima, Kia Forte, and Jeep Grand Cherokee 2WD have high death rates for drivers of other vehicles. However, don’t worry, we also have models like Toyota RAV4 hybrid 4WD, Toyota C-HR, Honda HR-V 4WD, Honda Pilot 4WD, and Subaru Forester, which have lower rates of other-driver deaths.
The Final Lap
While we all love our cool and stylish rides, safety should always be our top priority. Thanks to the IIHS, we have a clearer view of where our favorite models stand. It’s also important to note that these studies aren’t the end-all and be-all for vehicle safety. The way we drive, obey traffic rules, and maintain our vehicles can significantly influence their safety. And, always check for essential safety features like airbags, ABS brakes, and stability control in your vehicle.
Remember, mga kaibigan, our goal is to enjoy the ride and reach our destination safely. So buckle up, drive responsibly, and let’s make our roads safer for everyone. Now, it’s time for us to hit the road. Tara, byahe tayo!
