Electric Cars

The landscape of vehicle safety ratings for 2025 has undergone a substantial transformation, largely due to the U.S. Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's (IIHS) introduction of more rigorous crash test criteria. These new benchmarks, particularly an enhanced 'moderate overlap front test' that assesses rear-seat passenger protection, have reshaped the hierarchy of top-performing vehicles. While some models have ascended to achieve the highest safety accolades, others have fallen short under the intensified scrutiny, prompting consumers to re-evaluate their choices. This shift underscores the automotive industry's ongoing commitment to passenger safety and the critical role of independent testing bodies in driving continuous improvement.

2025 Vehicle Safety Rankings: Winners and Losers Emerge Under Stricter IIHS Standards

In a significant development for automotive safety, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) unveiled its updated criteria for 2025 crash test awards on September 20, 2025, dramatically altering the safety landscape for numerous vehicles. The core of this change lies in the revised 'moderate overlap front test,' which now incorporates a second crash test dummy in the rear seat, mandating 'Acceptable' ratings for Top Safety Pick (TSP) and 'Good' ratings for Top Safety Pick+ (TSP+) in this specific scenario. This single adjustment has led to a major shake-up, elevating some models to premier safety status while demoting others.

Among the notable victors, the Buick Enclave (manufactured after January 2025), Nissan Armada, Audi Q7, and Infiniti QX80 have successfully earned the prestigious TSP+ rating. The Chevrolet Traverse and GMC Acadia also secured Top Safety Pick status, with a similar production date qualifier of January 2025. Furthermore, the Kia K4 achieved TSP+ after modifications to its rear seatbelt system on units produced post-January 2025. These models are now prominently featured on the IIHS's 2025 awards roster, signaling their superior protection for all occupants.

Conversely, some previously high-ranking vehicles have seen their safety standing diminished. The Hyundai Palisade, despite updates for models built after August 2024, received a 'Poor' rating in the revised moderate-overlap test, with specific concerns raised about its belt fit. Similarly, the Ford F-150 crew cab failed to meet the new standards, demonstrating 'Poor' results for both rear-seat injury measures and kinematics. These two models have been removed from the elite awards list, highlighting areas where their rear-seat passenger protection needs improvement. The Volkswagen ID.4 (2025 model) currently lacks updated moderate-overlap rear-seat metrics and is therefore awaiting a definitive rating.

The enhanced rear-seat performance metrics are particularly telling. Vehicles like the QX80, Q7, and Armada displayed excellent chest indices and maintained proper belt positioning during the tests. Mid-tier performers, including the Traverse, Enclave, Acadia, and K4, showed some minor lap-belt displacement. However, the Palisade and F-150 crew cab recorded high impact loads and exhibited problematic rear-seat kinematics, such as shoulder belt ride-up and lap belts migrating onto the abdomen, indicating potential injury risks for rear passengers.

Driving Towards a Safer Future: Insights for Car Buyers

The latest IIHS crash test results serve as a crucial guide for consumers prioritizing vehicle safety. In light of these more rigorous standards, prospective car buyers should begin their search by focusing on models that have achieved the Top Safety Pick+ designation. It is imperative to delve into the detailed IIHS model pages to verify specific rear-seat test outcomes and any relevant build-date cutoffs, as these can significantly impact a vehicle's safety performance. Beyond passive safety, the report also emphasizes the growing importance of active safety features, particularly Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB). With a new NHTSA regulation requiring AEB to be standard by September 2029, including advanced pedestrian detection capabilities, choosing a vehicle equipped with robust AEB today not only enhances immediate safety but also aligns with future regulatory landscapes. This proactive approach ensures that car owners are well-prepared for evolving safety standards and benefit from real-world accident prevention technologies.

Fans of classic cinema and distinctive automobiles have a unique opportunity to acquire a legendary piece of pop culture. A meticulously restored and road-trip-ready recreation of the 'Wagon Queen Family Truckster' from the iconic movie National Lampoon's Vacation is being offered for sale. This particular vehicle, originally an '89 Ford LTD Country Squire, has been transformed into a faithful homage to the Griswold family's infamous station wagon. Beyond its striking cinematic resemblance, the car has undergone extensive mechanical refurbishment, making it more than just a showpiece. It embodies both nostalgic charm and practical usability, having traversed many of the actual filming locations, cementing its authenticity as a tribute to the beloved comedy classic. Its current availability at auction presents a rare chance for enthusiasts to own a piece of film history that is as functional as it is famous.

This remarkable vehicle stands out not only for its instantly recognizable metallic pea green exterior and signature faux wood paneling but also for the significant investment made in its operational integrity. The restoration process involved considerable modifications to replicate the movie's unique aesthetic, alongside comprehensive upgrades to critical components such as the brakes, suspension, engine parts, and air conditioning system. These enhancements ensure that the 'Truckster' is prepared for any journey, reflecting its past adventures of covering 15,000 miles during its current ownership, often to the surprise and delight of fellow travelers. As the auction draws to a close on September 23rd, prospective buyers have a limited window to claim this one-of-a-kind automobile, promising its next owner an unforgettable experience and a tangible connection to one of Hollywood's most memorable family road trips.

The Rebirth of a Cinematic Icon: From Ford LTD to Family Truckster

This section explores the painstaking transformation of an ordinary 1989 Ford LTD Country Squire into the celebrated 'Wagon Queen Family Truckster' replica. It delves into the creative process and dedication required to faithfully recreate the vehicle's unique aesthetic, including its distinctive metallic pea paintwork, eight headlights, and the iconic faux wood paneling that instantly evokes memories of the Griswold family's misadventures. The narrative highlights how this replica transcends mere imitation, becoming a meticulously crafted tribute that captures the essence of the original movie car while ensuring its roadworthiness for modern adventures. The journey from a standard station wagon to a beloved film prop replica showcases a blend of automotive craftsmanship and cinematic reverence, appealing to both car enthusiasts and film buffs.

The creation of this 'Wagon Queen Family Truckster' was a detailed endeavor, starting with a beige 1989 Ford LTD Country Squire. The conversion involved significant cutting and welding to match the on-screen vehicle's appearance precisely. Beyond cosmetic changes, considerable effort was dedicated to mechanical improvements, including a complete overhaul of the brakes, suspension, and several engine components. The air conditioning system was also refurbished, and the transmission fluid and filter were replaced, ensuring the vehicle's reliability and comfort for long drives. These extensive modifications and maintenance work demonstrate a commitment to making this replica not just visually accurate but also fully functional and capable of embarking on its own cross-country journeys, just like in the movie. The dedication to both form and function ensures that this 'Truckster' is ready for its next chapter on the open road.

Adventure-Ready: The Truckster's Journey and Mechanical Fortitude

This segment focuses on the 'Wagon Queen Family Truckster' replica's impressive capabilities as a genuine road-tripper, detailing the extensive mechanical upgrades that allow it to perform reliably. It highlights the seller's commitment to proving its authenticity and durability by documenting its journeys to various National Lampoon's Vacation filming locations across the United States. The discussion includes the robust 5.0-liter V-8 engine, its four-speed automatic transmission, and other powertrain enhancements that contribute to its dependable performance. This car is not just a static display piece but a fully operational vehicle, equipped to recreate the Griswold family's iconic road trip experience, complete with movie props on the roof, ready for its next owner to embark on their own memorable adventures.

The 'Wagon Queen Family Truckster' replica has proven its mettle by accumulating approximately 15,000 miles under its current ownership, during which it visited numerous original filming sites, accompanied by documentation of its build process. Powering this unique wagon is a 5.0-liter V-8 engine, delivering 150 horsepower and 270 pound-feet of torque, paired with a four-speed automatic transmission. Various powertrain seals have also been replaced to ensure smooth operation. Adorned with all the signature movie props on its roof, excluding the fictional Aunt Edna, this vehicle is perfectly equipped for cross-country excursions. Its combination of cinematic charm and mechanical reliability makes it an ideal choice for anyone planning a memorable family vacation or wishing to experience a piece of movie history firsthand, truly embodying the spirit of adventure from National Lampoon's Vacation.