BMW 3 Series Facelift Gets Tested by IIHS, Doesn't Get Top Safety Pick Rating

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety was unable to grant the German sedan one of its desired Top Safety Pick or Top Safety Pick+ awards mainly because of the rating obtained in the small overlap front test, which was apparently "Marginal." For a car to be eligible for a Top Safety Pick or Top Safety Pick+ rating, it must achieve an "Acceptable" or "Good" rating in the front small overlap impact test.

The 2016 BMW 3 Series did obtain four "Good" ratings in the moderate overlap front impact test, side impact test, roof strength and the head restraints & seats. Furthermore, the front crash prevention system received an "Advanced" rating with optional equipment fitted. However, the ease of use of the child seat anchors was deemed "Poor."

The "Marginal" rating for the small overlap frontal-impact test was given because the driver's survival space wasn't maintained well, says the IIHS report. Apparently, the reduction in space was caused by the intrusion of the left front wheel.

The intrusion was extensive and presented a risk of injuries to both of the driver's legs. In the IIHS test, the dummy's right foot was trapped. However, the 2016 BMW 3 Series's frontal and side curtain airbags did work well together to keep the heads of the front occupants safe from an impact with any stiff structure or outside objects that could cause injury.

A quick analysis provided by the IIHS on the matter showed that the "Marginal" rating on the small front overlap impact was obtained by every BMW 3 Series model year tested since this category was introduced. Since MY 2014, the BMW 3 Series has improved its front crash prevention from a "Basic" to an "Advanced" level. All the other ratings of the car remained "Good" from MY 2012 to MY 2016.