2012 Hyundai Elantra, Accent Earn Four-Star NHTSA Ratings
The Elantra’s composite score is composed of a three-star frontal, four-star rollover and a five-star rating for the combined side pole and barrier tests. The side barrier test is an area where other vehicles have shown weakness with the safety agency’s testing format. The side pole test simulates a 20-mph side-impact crash into a 10-inch-diameter pole or tree at a 75-degree angle just behind the A-pillar on the driver’s side.
The Accent received four stars in frontal, rollover and combined side-impact tests, though NHTSA highlighted a particular safety concern with the Accent. During the side-impact barrier test, the left rear door intruded. The intrusion wasn’t factored into the side-impact rating, however.
In crash tests by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, the 2012 Elantra received a Top Safety Pick award, meaning the vehicle received a Good rating (the agency’s highest rating) in front, side, rear and roof-strength crash tests. The 2012 Accent had a Good rating in the roof-strength and the frontal crash tests, but an Acceptable rating in the side-impact test.
