Small SUVs do poorly in insurance industry headlight tests

Small SUVs did poorly in new headlight tests performed by the insurance industry.

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety says none of the 21 small SUVs tested earned its highest ranking. The Ford Escape, Honda CR-V, Hyundai Tucson and Mazda CX-3 performed best, but more than half the SUVs tested received the lowest ranking, including the Subaru Forester and the Audi Q3.

The tests — which began earlier this year — measure the amount of usable light provided by low beams and high beams on straight roads and curves.

The institute says high-tech headlights such as high-intensity discharge lamps don't necessarily perform better.

Expect automakers to upgrade their lighting soon. Starting next year, the insurance institute won't give its coveted highest safety award to vehicles with poor headlights.

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