Are SUVs Safer Than Sedans?

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

Are they more shielded than other body styles? Specifically, are SUVs safer than sedans?

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

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

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

Safety: SUV vs. Sedan – Bottom Line Up Front

SUVs are larger, heavier, and taller than sedans. That much is clear. 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 prone to roll with sudden steering inputs. The increased weight and height also mean SUVs are more difficult to control vs. sedans.

So, regarding safety, which is superior? Well, that really depends. Do you want prevention and avoidance, or would you prefer to exchange nimbleness 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 substantially 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 top-of-the-range SUV.

That’s quite a lot.

The concise 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 treacherous.

Are Heavier SUVs Safer Than Light Sedans?

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

Many associated collision tests have been undertaken. The results? Injuries are far more likely in the lighter 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 significantly 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 rather widespread with the masses? What’s the argument for safety in a sedan?

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

Car control is primarily related to how low the center of mass concept is. Of course, it also encompasses factors like suspension, steering, wheelbase, transmission, and body 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. Smaller hatchbacks would offer even more of this.

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

Is An SUV Safer Than A Sedan?

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

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

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

Accidents always happen before you can blink, usually on routes that you’re familiar 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 pros and cons of specific models. They’ll tell you about the types of cars they see most often and how bad 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 apprehensive about vulnerable others in your household (children, elderly relatives, etc.), go with the SUV. It’s the lower risk, lower reward option.

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

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