2017 Hyundai Elantra receives top rating in IIHS crash testing as it has been substantially improved over predecessors in safety standards
The next generation Hyundai Elantra is going to get a complete redesign for 2017 but before that it was put into crash tests by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The new Elantra has recently earned an award for International Design Excellence proving that lots of thought has been involved in making the executive sedan. But its endurance and formidability depend on the chassis and the crash structures that were comprehensively given a challenge.
The IIHS revealed the crash test results including the video of the overall lap test. As opposed to the previous generation Hyundai Elantras who did not get full rating, the upcoming sedan excelled above expectations to receive the IIHS’ Top Safety Pick+ rating. In order to get awarded ‘Top Safety Pick+’ a car must get maximum available rating, ‘Good’ instead of Acceptable or Marginal or Poor.
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The 2017 Elantra did so with flair as it was awarded the highest designation in Small overlap front, Moderate overlap front, Side, Roof strength, Head restraints & seats of the crashworthiness category. In crash avoidance and mitigation, the front crash prevention category has been given ‘Superior’ status with optional equipment installed.
The major difference between previous Elantras and the new model is the front intrusion depth that went down from nine inches to two inches. This was due to the junction amidst door sill and reinforced hinge pillar. The safety features along which the new Elantra was tested include ESP (Electronic Stability Control), driver knee bags, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), automatic braking, rollover sensors, etc.
They are available in Limited trim level and the Ultimate Package. The IIHS summarised the crash test report as “measures taken from the dummy indicate a low risk of any significant injuries in a crash of this severity.” The Elantra is the first MY2017 to join the likes of this year’s Honda Civic, Mazda 3, Nissan Sentra, Subaru Impreza, and Volkswagen Golf to achieve Top Safety Pick+ rating.
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