While Upgraded VUE is Average, Chrysler Pacifica is Tops in Class According to NHTSA

Under scrutiny for poor rollover test results, a redesigned Saturn VUE has managed to pass federal rollover safety regulations. Now, the General Motors Corp. built compact SUV is no worse, or for that matter better than the majority of top-heavy SUVs when it comes to withstanding extreme lateral forces to tip over.

In response to two failed attempts at passing previous National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) rollover tests, GM modified the rear suspension allowing it to score three stars out of a

After some tweaking, a redesigned Saturn VUE has managed to pass federal rollover safety regulations. (Photo: General Motors)

Now what are the chances of Saturns SUV to topple over when pushed to the limit? It fairs slightly better in 4-wheel drive trim, where 20 percent of VUEs would flip upside down if the same test was performed on all of them. Front-wheel drive VUEs are actually said to flip

Fords rather antiquated Explorer Sport Trac, earned only two stars and experienced a 34.8 percent chance of rollover. (Photo: Ford Motor Company)

If the Saturn VUE was average, which models performed the test best and which are the worst offenders? Pulling up the rear is Fords rather antiquated Explorer Sport Trac, earning only two stars and experiencing a 34.8 percent chance of lying prostrate on its backside during evasive maneuvers. Ford has responded to the test results, saying that it doesnt agree with the NHTSAs methodology in arriving at its results.

Chryslers Pacifica scored top marks in the test, four points and a mere thirteen percent chance of experiencing a rollover. (Photo: DaimlerChrysler)

The Freestyle, a 2005 model and not yet available to consumers, should fare well when it is tested next year, being that it is at least as nimble in the corners as Chryslers top-scoring Pacifica. The Pacifica brought four points and a mere thirteen percent chance of experiencing a rollover home to Auburn Hills, a best-in-class example that for most peoples needs crossovers are a good compromise

To fix the rollover problem, GM has recalled 246,433 2002-04 model year VUEs for parts replacement at no cost to customers. (Photo: General Motors)

While only six VUE owners claimed that the defective suspension parts caused injury sustaining accidents, GM has recalled 246,433 2002-04 model year VUEs for parts replacement at no cost to customers, other than inconvenience. VUEs produced after July 30 already incorporated the suspension fix.

Relatd Vehicle Listings