Chevy Trax, Buick Envista fail new crash tests

The Chevrolet Trax and related Buick Envista small crossovers earned “Poor” ratings for the updated side impact test performed by the IIHS, the safety agency disclosed earlier this month. The Kia Seltos also missed the mark on the new test.

The results preclude these models from earning a Top Safety Pick award. The IIHS also faulted the Trax’s automatic emergency braking system with subpar pedestrian detection. 

A Top Safety Pick (TSP) or Top Safety Pick+ (TSP+) are considered the toughest safety ratings in the industry, with the non-profit agency funded by the insurance industry frequently updating test criteria as more vehicles tested exceed its safety thresholds. The headlight test updated last year is meant to test oncoming glare to other drivers as well as a wide field of view for drivers because most traffic fatalities happen at night. 

In 2021, the IIHS introduced a tougher side test meant to simulate a T-bone crash into the driver’s side. The test hadn’t been updated since 2003, in which time heavier crossover SUVs that ride higher than cars proliferated on roadways. The moving crash barrier increased in weight from 3,300 pounds to 4,180 pounds to reflect the average new car weight, and the strike speed increased from 31 to 37 mph to reflect higher average speeds from 20 years ago.

A new front-impact test instituted in 2023 to measure rear-seat safety was tough for most small crossovers to meet. Nine out of 15 earned “Poor” ratings. 

So far in 2024, 91 models qualify for IIHS awards, with 53 models awarded a 2024 TSP and 38 qualifying for the tougher TSP+ honor. 

The 2024 Chevy Trax and Buick Envista have not been crash-tested by the NHTSA. Both models come standard with driver-assist tech such as automatic emergency braking, automatic high-beam headlights, and active lane control that’s intended to limit or avoid crashes.