The 2022 Toyota Camry fared poorly in the latest IIHS side crash evaluation, a result that underscores ongoing concerns about torso and pelvic injury risks for drivers and the rear passenger. The findings indicate a moderate likelihood of torso and pelvis injuries for the driver, with the rear occupant showing a notable pelvic risk as well. These outcomes are part of a broader pattern observed in this round of tests, where several contemporary models demonstrated weaker protection in side impacts than expected.
In this testing cycle, the Camry was not alone. Seven current-model vehicles participated in the updated side impact evaluation, including the Camry and six others. Among the group, the Nissan Altima and Chevrolet Malibu registered the lowest safety scores, while the Honda Accord C, Hyundai Sonata, and Volkswagen Jetta posted comparatively stronger ratings. The Subaru Outback distinguished itself with the strongest performance in this series, signaling how design choices can influence protection in side crashes.
A notable observation from IIHS concerns occupant movement during side impacts. In several models, the dummy heads and hips shifted inward and contacted the door or side curtain airbag. This interaction highlights how side airbag systems intersect with occupant motion during a crash and why real-world protection levels can vary even among similarly rated vehicles. Understanding these dynamics helps explain why some cars offer better protection for certain body regions than others.
To more accurately reflect real-world crashes, IIHS is introducing an updated side crash test. Earlier configurations did not fully capture the severity and variability of side impacts, which continue to account for a meaningful share of fatalities in passenger cars. The revised test uses a heavier barrier and higher impact speed to simulate more realistic crash scenarios, pushing manufacturers to demonstrate robust performance under tougher conditions.
Under the new protocol, the barrier weighs about two metric tons and is propelled toward the vehicle at a speed of 60 kilometers per hour. This setup mirrors the mass and velocity range encountered in modern side crashes, including those involving mid-size SUVs, and aims to provide a more precise assessment of occupant protection. IIHS continues to emphasize rigorous testing to identify gaps and drive improvements in vehicle safety. This shift in testing methodology reflects a strong commitment to producing credible, real-world data that informs consumer choices and pushes the industry toward safer designs.
Historical results in side crash testing show that some models face rollover risk or unexpected vehicle dynamics shortly after impact, underscoring the importance of a comprehensive safety approach. Consumers are encouraged to consider the full spectrum of safety performance, including the interplay of airbags, structural design, and crumple zones with occupant protection during a side collision. IIHS remains diligent in publishing detailed ratings and breakdowns for current models, with the aim of encouraging ongoing improvements across the automotive sector. IIHS attribution