Car seats are essential for the safety of small children in vehicles until they are old enough to use modern technology designed for them. In a recent evaluation conducted by Cars.com, 56 models were tested to assess their performance in this critical task. The evaluation included categories such as latches, rear-facing infant seats, rear-facing convertibles, forward-facing convertibles, high-back booster seats, and third-row access if applicable. We have analyzed the results of the study to identify the worst performers. Cars.com assigned letter grades to the vehicles, but we have converted them to numerical scores for easier comparison. Our scoring system is similar to the GPA system used in schools, where a 4.0 represents straight A’s, and a higher score indicates better performance.
Worst Two-Row SUV:
– 2022 Hyundai Venue
– Score: 2.6
– The Hyundai Venue ranked at the bottom among two-row SUVs, receiving a D grade in the rear-facing convertible category. However, it scored A ratings in the latches and front-facing convertible sections. The Venue is Hyundai’s entry-level crossover, offering features like an 8.0-inch infotainment screen and the automaker’s SmartSense safety suite.
Best Two-Row SUVs:
– 2023 Chevrolet Equinox
– Score: 4.0
– 2023 Acura RDX
– Score: 4.0
– 2023 Volkswagen Tiguan
– Score: 4.0
Worst Three-Row SUV:
– 2023 Toyota Sequoia
– Score: 3.1
– The Toyota Sequoia received C ratings in the third-row front-facing convertible and third-row booster seat categories. It achieved A grades in the latches, infant, and rear-facing convertible classes. The Sequoia is a three-row, body-on-frame SUV known for its towing capabilities and premium amenities in the latest generation.
Best Three-Row SUV:
– 2023 GMC Yukon
– Score: 3.9
Worst EVs, PHEVs, and Hybrids:
– 2022 BMW i4
– Score: 2.6
– 2023 Kia Niro EV
– Score: 2.6
– Among electrified vehicles, the BMW i4 and Kia Niro EV both scored 2.6. The i4 had its lowest scores in the infant, rear-facing convertible, and booster seat categories. The eDrive40 variant of the i4 offers the best range among the available options. The Kia Niro EV received a positive review from Motor1.com, but its child seat usability did not factor into the evaluation.
Best EVs, PHEVs, and Hybrids:
– 2022 and 2023 Audi E-Tron
– Score: 4.0
– 2023 Kia EV6
– Score: 4.0
– 2023 Volkswagen ID.4
– Score: 4.0
Worst Minivan:
– 2023 Kia Carnival
– Score: 3.4
– The Kia Carnival was the only minivan included in the test, making it both the best and worst in its category. Its lowest score was a C in the forward-facing convertible seat category in the third row. The van received A ratings in the latch, second-row convertible seat, and booster seat categories.
Worst Pickup:
– 2022 Honda Ridgeline
– Score: 3.4
– Of the three pickups tested, the Honda Ridgeline performed the worst. Its lowest score was a C in the front-facing convertible category. However, it achieved A ratings in the latches, infant, and rear-facing convertible areas. The refreshed Ridgeline debuted in 2021 with updated styling and improved passenger space.
Best Pickup:
– 2022 GMC Sierra 1500
– Score: 3.8
Worst Sedan:
– 2023 Lexus IS500
– Score: 3.0
– The 2023 Lexus IS500 ranked as the worst choice among sport sedans in terms of car seat usability. It received C grades for infant and rear-facing convertible seats, but obtained A scores in the latch and front-facing convertible categories. The Lexus IS500 features a powerful V8 engine and various performance enhancements.
Best Sedan: (not provided in the given content)