Vehicle Safety: Consumer Reports Releases Its List of Automobiles With the Best, Worst Visibility

We rely on automobiles to transport us to and from our desired locations without a hitch. As technology has changed over the years, it has been determined that some vehicles are much safer than others. Typically, most drivers never give a second thought to being able to actually see the road from the vehicle, as it is simply assumed that everyone driving the vehicle will be able to see the road properly. However, according to Consumer Reports, some automobiles have better visibility than others, based on the results of their road tests.

Having an unobstructed view through a vehicle’s windows is crucial for safe driving and avoiding collisions. Clear views help drivers avoid roadway hazards, such as pieces of large debris or even human beings. However, many consumers often buy automobiles based on their sleekness and “good looks” rather than the practicality, functionality and overall safety.

Vehicles With the Worst Visibility

There are several vehicles that topped the list as having the worst visibility. Some common features of automobiles with poor visibility include small back windows, short windows and thick pillars. The vehicles at issue include two Nissan models (the Nissan Z and the Nissan Pathfinder), as well as the Honda CR-Z, Buick Encore, Toyota Tundra, Porsche Boxster, Jeep Wrangler, Infiniti QX70 and the Smart for Two.

More specifically, the list noted that the Jeep Wrangler comes with a long hood, high dashboard, an outside spare tire and thick pillars, among other things that result in poor visibility for drivers. Honda’s CR-Z has poor rear visibility, as it has a “horizontally split window.”

Automobiles With the Best Visibility

As Consumer Reports notes, not all vehicles are bad. In fact, several have made the best visibility list based on their design and the driver’s ability to see with ease. This list includes the following vehicles:

• Honda Accord
• Honda Fit
• Nissan Altima
• Land Rover Range Rover (and the Range Rover Sport as well)
• Subaru Legacy
• Subaru Forester
• Subaru Outback
• Mercedes Benz E-Class

So, what makes these vehicles’ visibility better than other automobiles?  The article noted a few things in particular. With respect to the Subaru vehicles on the list, Consumer Reports states that their large windows lead to great visibility for drivers, as their size is optimal for good visibility, minimizing blind spots and increasing back window visibility as well.

Taking a look at the Honda vehicles that made the list, the Honda Fit’s hatchback styling lends itself to greater visibility than most. For a subcompact automobile, the windows are big and the roof pillars are pretty thin. An added plus is that the rear headrests fold down when they’re not in use.

The Honda Accord also has thin roof pillars and an upright body styling that allows for greater visibility for drivers. While the vehicle comes with a standard backup camera that is accompanied by a large display screen inside the vehicle, Consumer Reports notes that a full blind spot monitoring system would be better.

Individuals who have been injured in automobile collisions are encouraged to seek legal guidance from a skilled Denver injury lawyer. Contact Levine Law today.