It is the only vehicle that tipped over in the small-overlap test.
A video from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (“IIHS”) came to our attention last week. It has been viewed over 85,000 times in five days and almost 800,000 times on the IIHS video. This video is sure to be popular with others. The Jeep Wrangler Unlimited was put through the IIHS small overlap 40-mph crash test. The Wrangler performed well in the standard metrics, but it tipped over when the collision occurred – something that no other vehicle has ever done. The Wrangler was given a Marginal rating by IIHS for the driver-side overlap test.
A report from Jalopnik states that Jeep is investigating Wrangler changes as a result. This information is and not from Jeep, Fiat Chrysler Automobiles or IIHS. It was allegedly provided by an IIHS representative, who claimed FCA was working on Wrangler changes but did not detail them. Motor1.com inquired about this claim and was confirmed by a representative of IIHS. We were informed that FCA was looking into making changes to address the driver-side small overlap crash test results. However, no context or details were provided.
FCA also provided a statement regarding the situation. The automaker did not comment on the alleged changes but pointed out that the JL Wrangler currently meets or exceeds federal safety standards. The complete FCA statement is available here.
These vehicles have been produced by FCA more than 500,000 times. They have been responsible for driving 6.7 billion miles on the road, according to a conservative estimate. We are not aware of any incidents which could have been related to the IIHS vehicle dynamic test result. The Jeep Wrangler Unlimited has more than 75 safety and security features and continues to receive praise from consumer groups and news organizations. The vehicle has been awarded nearly every eight weeks since its 2017 debut for attributes such as capability and residual value. Other achievements include highest customer loyalty and SUV award of the year. Vehicle safety is not determined by any one test. FCA regularly monitors third-party assessments and incorporates such findings into the product-development process. Our vehicles are designed for real-world performance. Real-world data and continued demand indicate that the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited exceeds customers’ expectations.
It’s difficult to draw any definitive conclusions without knowing the context of the IIHS statement. Although the FCA statement states that the automaker monitors third-party evaluations and incorporates such findings into the product-development process, this could mean that any changes may simply be part the normal, mid-cycle renewal process. FCA also mentions that vehicles are designed for real-world performance, which could be an attempt to shade the IIHS front-overlap test.
IIHS also reports that the Wrangler has good ratings in other metrics such as moderate overlap front, side and roof and head restraint evaluations. The optional vehicle-to–vehicle front collision prevention system earned it a superior rating. Both base-model halogens as well as optional LED units received low ratings for their headlights.