Small GM SUVs Can’t Do What Rivals Can Where It Matters

The Chevrolet Trax has gotten a major update for the 2024 model year, while its platform buddy, the Buick Envista, has been introduced as the latest small SUV from the American automaker. However, both new-generation crossovers aren’t as safe as one would expect, failing to qualify for safety awards from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

The IIHS updated its moderate front overlap and side crash tests last February 2024. In the updated side crash tests, the agency increased the crash speed and weight of the barrier (from 31 to 37 mph, and from 3,300 to 4,200 pounds) to represent the heavier vehicles. Meanwhile, the moderate front overlap test now comes with a second dummy seated behind the driver to emphasize back seat safety.

How Did The Trax And Envista Fare?

Using the same platform, the Chevy Trax and Buick Envista received similar ratings in the latest IIHS crash tests. Both received Poor ratings in the moderate overlap test, noting insufficient head/neck injury protection and marginal chest injury mitigation. Meanwhile, both scored Acceptable ratings in the updated side crash test, which is short of the Good rating requirement for a Top Safety Pick award.

Of note, both GM SUVs provide marginal pelvis protection in the updated side crash test. They were also given Marginal ratings on the headlights criteria because their low beams didn’t project far enough, while the Envista was given an Acceptable rating on the front pedestrian crash test – a bit better than the Trax’s Marginal rating.

Versus The Competitors

It’s worth pointing out that the Chevy Trax and Buick Envista aren’t the only small SUVs that failed to qualify for top safety awards from the IIHS. The Kia Seltos failed to qualify, as well, scoring better in the moderate overlap test but worse in the updated side crash test. However, compared to other small SUVs in the market, GM and Kia may need to update their entries.

We’re talking about the Honda HR-V and Hyundai Kona, both earning Good ratings in the updated tests explained above and ultimately, the 2024 Top Safety Pick+ awards, the highest safety honor from the agency. Of note, Hyundai leads the industry in terms of safety awards, bagging nine Top Safety Picks this year.

Source: IIHS