Are SUVs Safer Than Sedans?

SUVs. They rule the present market. But are they worth it?

Are they more protected than other body styles? Specifically, are SUVs safer than saloons?

The United States has some of the most hazardous roads in the world. It’s vital to be prepared and ready for an incident.

This guide will compare SUVs and sedans in a couple distinct ways.

In summary, SUVs are considerably safer in crashes. But it’s simpler to avoid the collision in the first place with a sedan.

Safety: SUV vs. Sedan – Bottom Line Up Front

SUVs are bulkier, heavier, and taller than sedans. That much is obvious. And in general, the bigger the vehicle is – and the further the occupants are from the impact point – the safer it is.

But there are more factors at play here. For example, the taller SUV is perhaps more likely to roll with abrupt steering inputs. The increased weight and height also mean SUVs are more challenging to control vs. sedans.

So, regarding safety, which is crucial? Well, that really depends. Do you want prevention and avoidance, or would you prefer to exchange agility for a buffer?

Which Is Safer If An SUV Crashes Into A Sedan?

Unfortunately, there would be very little contest in a head-on collision. The SUV would almost always be safer, offering its occupants significantly more protection.

Some reports say you’re up to ten times more likely to sustain a serious injury in a low-safety-scored sedan than in a high-end SUV.

That’s quite a large bunch.

The compact seating of a sedan can also be a hazardous factor. Although modern engineering does its part to help avoid this, the sedan’s hood can dive underneath the other vehicle. This exposes the driver and passengers to the bulk of the other car and is much more perilous.

Are Heavier SUVs Safer Than Light Sedans?

The bulkier a vehicle is, the more safe it’s likely to protect its occupants in a crash. SUVs far outperform sedans in this regard.

Many associated impact tests have been undertaken. The results? Injuries are far more probable in the small car.

The same can be said, of course, if you compare SUVs with bigger vehicles like trucks or semis. Whichever has less mass is almost always worse off.

So, yes, in a collision, you’re considerably safer in an SUV than a passenger car.

What’s The Case For Sedan Safety vs. SUVs?

So, in a head-on collision, a sedan has no chance. Why, then, are they still quite common with the masses? What’s the argument for safety in a small car?

It’s not a one-size-fits-all statement, but typically, sedans offer drivers improved car control compared to SUVs.

Car control is primarily related to how low the center of mass concept is. Obviously, it also encompasses elements like suspension, steering, wheelbase, transmission, and chassis rigidity.

In general, the smaller and lighter a car is, the more control the driver has over it. As such, in sedans, it should be much simpler to brake and swerve to avoid collisions without spinning out. Small hatchbacks would offer even more of this.

Unfortunately, there are no statistics to officially back this assertion up. However, it would be fascinating to see how many SUVs are involved in collisions vs. the number of small sedans.

Is An SUV Safer Than A Sedan?

In summary, how should you approach this widely debated subject?

SUVs undoubtedly perform better in a collision. They offer the occupants much improved safety.

Sedans are typically easier to maneuver and may help prevent an accident.

Accidents always occur before you can blink, usually on routes that you’re acquainted with. It’s impossible to foresee whether you’ll want to escape and evade or just prepare. Fight or flight.

For a more comprehensive look, chat with bodywork mechanics (not salespeople!) and crash investigators about the benefits and cons of particular models. They’ll tell you about the types of cars they see most often and how severe the damage usually is.

When deciding between an SUV and a sedan, you should also consider other drivers. Remember, a road traffic incident might not be your fault. What would you do if a reckless, texting, drunk, or intoxicated driver came speeding the wrong way down the road?

If you’re in doubt or anxious about vulnerable others in your household (children, elderly relatives, etc.), go with the SUV. It’s the diminished risk, smaller reward option.

You might consider a sedan if you prefer to maintain a business professional appearance. That said, plenty of fast SUVs out there might really cut the cheese for you.

Remember: all contemporary cars are as secure as homes compared to the days gone by. Whether you choose an SUV or a sedan, driving carefully and with continual road awareness is the best way to avoid injury to yourselves and damage to the car.