The 2021 Ford Bronco, a highly anticipated midsize SUV, has undergone rigorous testing by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). While the Bronco demonstrated robust performance in several crashworthiness evaluations, it fell short of earning the coveted Top Safety Pick award. This outcome stems from less-than-ideal ratings in specific areas concerning head restraint effectiveness and headlight illumination.
To secure an IIHS Top Safety Pick accolade, a vehicle must achieve “good” ratings across six demanding crashworthiness tests. These encompass driver-side small overlap front, passenger-side small overlap front, moderate overlap front, original side impact, roof strength, and head restraint evaluations. Furthermore, qualifying vehicles must offer a front crash prevention system capable of earning “advanced” or “superior” ratings in both vehicle-to-vehicle and vehicle-to-pedestrian scenarios.
The Ford Bronco impressively secured “good” ratings in five out of the six crashworthiness assessments. However, it received an “acceptable” rating in the head restraint test. IIHS testing revealed that during a simulated rear-end collision, the test dummy’s neck experienced moderate force, preventing a “good” rating in this crucial safety aspect.
IIHS meticulously evaluates head restraint geometry, considering height and backset relative to an average-sized male. Optimal head restraints should reach at least as high as the head’s center of gravity and possess minimal backset—distance behind the head. While the Bronco’s head restraint design met these geometric standards, its performance in the dynamic rear-impact simulation test was lacking. The seat failed to provide sufficient support to adequately protect the occupant’s head and neck, resulting in the “acceptable” rating.
On a positive note, the 2021 Bronco’s two available front crash prevention systems performed admirably, earning “superior” and “advanced” ratings in vehicle-to-vehicle and vehicle-to-pedestrian tests, respectively. These systems demonstrated effective capability in mitigating frontal collision risks.
However, the marginal rating of both available headlight systems ultimately hindered the Bronco’s chances for a Top Safety Pick award. For the lower-tier Top Safety Pick, at least one “good” or “acceptable” headlight system must be available. The Bronco’s headlights were deemed “marginal” because their low beams did not project adequate illumination on curves, a critical factor for nighttime driving safety. This deficiency in headlight performance prevented the 2021 Ford Bronco from achieving the desired Top Safety Pick recognition, despite its strong crash test results and effective front crash prevention technology.
