Three-NHTSA-star Fiat 500

The North American-specification Fiat 500 has not done particularly well in its National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) crash tests, being awarded just three out of a possible five stars.

Although respectable four-star grades were achieved for both the rollover and 35 mph frontal impact tests, the Fiat’s overall mark was pulled down by a two-star side crash rating.

Fiat 500 (2012 North American Spec) NHTSA Frontal Barrier Crash
Fiat 500 (2012 North American Spec) NHTSA Side Barrier Crash
Fiat 500 (2012 North American Spec) NHTSA Side Pole Crash

However, it’s important to note that that was primarily due to a poor rear-seat occupant score in the side barrier impact assessment. By contrast, the car’s ability to protect front-seat occupants in the same test was deemed good enough to earn it five stars. Three stars were awarded for the side pole impact evaluation.

With full NHTSA appraisals for models such as the Mini Cooper and Smart fortwo still to be published, it’s too early to gauge how safe the Fiat 500 is compared to its competition.

Related posts:
North American 500 Abarth
2012 Fiat 500 Pink Ribbon
North American Fiat 500C
American spec Fiat 500

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