Picking Your Ride: Safety First
Thinking about a new car? It’s a pretty big decision. Safety often comes first, doesn’t it? We all want to feel safe when driving. The Lincoln Aviator and Volvo XC90 are popular choices. Both are luxury SUVs, you know. They’ve truly caught a lot of attention. Their safety features are impressive. Crash test results show their strength too. But how do they really compare? Which one truly leads the pack? Let’s really dig into their performance. We will look at their tech as well. This will help us understand what they offer you.
Crash Test Performance: A Closer Look
Okay, let’s talk about crash tests. Both the [Lincoln Aviator](https://www.lincoln.com/suvs/aviator/) and the [Volvo XC90](https://www.volvocars.com/us/models/xc90/) face tough evaluations. Two big names handle these tests. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration ([NHTSA](https://www.nhtsa.gov/)) is one. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety ([IIHS](https://www.iihs.org/)) is the other. These groups truly push vehicles to their limits. They check frontal impacts. Side impacts are a major concern. Rollover potential gets tested too. It’s a very comprehensive process. They want to see how well cars protect us.
The Lincoln Aviator got a strong start. In 2020, NHTSA gave it five stars overall. That’s their very top safety rating. It scored five stars for side crash tests. For frontal crashes, it earned four stars. Its rollover risk was 10.2% in tests. This suggests a low chance of rolling over. The Aviator’s structure is very tough. Its airbag systems are advanced. These things truly help it earn high marks.
Now, let’s look at the Volvo XC90. It has always been a safety leader. It also grabbed a five-star rating from NHTSA. Similar to the Aviator, it got five stars for side impacts. Frontal crashes also earned it four stars. But here’s a small difference. Its rollover risk was 9.6%. That’s slightly better, you see. It means the XC90 has a tiny bit less chance of rolling. Both are super safe, honestly. But the Volvo has that slight edge.
And there’s more to consider. The IIHS gave the XC90 a special award. It became a Top Safety Pick+ in 2021. This means amazing crash protection. It also has superb safety features. The Aviator hasn’t gotten this exact award yet. That said, it still performs really well in all tests. It’s no secret that both companies try hard for safety. Volvo just has a deeper history here. They’ve been at it for ages.
Safety Technologies: What Do They Offer?
So, beyond the crash itself, what about preventing crashes? Both the Aviator and XC90 pack tons of safety tech. They want to keep you safe. These systems also help stop accidents from happening. It’s pretty amazing, honestly. They are truly smart.
The Lincoln Aviator uses Ford’s Co-Pilot360 suite. This is a collection of helpers. You get adaptive cruise control. It keeps your car at a set distance. Blind-spot monitoring warns you of hidden cars. Lane-keeping assist helps you stay in your lane. Automatic emergency braking can stop the car for you. These systems work together. They create a strong safety shield for drivers. Plus, the Aviator has a cool feature. It’s called Active Park Assist. It handles tricky parking jobs. This makes tight spots less stressful. That’s a real convenience.
Then there’s the Volvo XC90. Volvo is famous for safety innovation. Its Pilot Assist system is well-known. This blends adaptive cruise control. It adds lane-keeping assistance. It gives you some semi-autonomous driving. That’s a fancy way of saying it helps steer and speed up. The XC90 also has advanced collision prevention. It can spot pedestrians and cyclists. This is so important in busy cities. These systems really do save lives. A European Commission report says so. Advanced driver assistance systems ([ADAS](https://ec.europa.eu/transport/themes/road_safety/drivers_and_vehicles/intelligent_transport_systems/adas_en)) can reduce road traffic injuries by up to 30%. That’s a big number. It’s truly encouraging.
From my perspective, Volvo’s dedication goes deeper. They don’t just add tech. Safety is part of their whole car design. This isn’t just a marketing slogan. Their cars have super strong bodies. These structures absorb crash energy. They redirect forces away from you. This commitment sets a high bar. It’s quite impressive, really.
Real-World Impact: What Do Numbers Say?
Looking at real-world data helps us understand safety better. Statistics give us clear insights. The IIHS points out something important. SUVs generally do better in crashes. They are safer than smaller cars. Both the Aviator and XC90 fit this idea perfectly. This is good news for SUV fans. It really is.
The IIHS did a study. It looked at frontal crashes. Larger SUVs, like our two examples, have fewer deaths. Their fatality rate is lower than smaller sedans. The numbers show a big difference. Occupant deaths in big SUVs are about 30% lower. That’s compared to regular cars. So, size and strong build matter a lot for safety. This really highlights the benefits of these larger vehicles.
Let’s consider a true story. The IIHS shared a great case study. An XC90’s safety tech saved the day. The car’s automatic braking system kicked in fast. A child suddenly ran into the street. Imagine that terrifying moment. But the car stopped itself. It avoided a terrible crash. This kind of event shows why these features are so vital. They protect real lives. It’s powerful to see that in action. Honestly, it makes me feel hopeful.
From my viewpoint, these stories are more than numbers. They make safety feel real. They help us understand the tech’s true value. It’s not just about features. It’s about preventing heartache. That’s something truly encouraging.
What Do the Experts Say?
What do the pros think about vehicle safety? The automotive world has opinions. The IIHS has spoken highly of both cars. They’ve praised the Aviator and XC90. Both have excellent safety features. David Zuby, IIHS President, summed it up well. He said, “Advanced safety tech is clear. These systems are saving lives.” It’s a powerful statement.
John McElroy is an automotive expert. He’s also a safety advocate. He made a compelling point. “Lincoln and Volvo have done great things,” he noted. But he added a key difference. “Volvo’s commitment is in its DNA.” They don’t just meet rules. They try to go far beyond them. That shows deep dedication. This philosophy impacts their entire design process. It’s honestly quite unique in the industry.
Think about that for a moment. Volvo’s history proves this point. They’ve always pushed boundaries. Many in the field agree. Other manufacturers also admire their efforts. It seems to me this mindset gives Volvo an edge. They simply think about safety differently. It’s woven into every decision they make.
A Look Back: SUV Safety Through the Years
To truly get how good these cars are, let’s go back. We need to see how SUV safety evolved. It wasn’t always this good. In the 1990s, SUVs faced lots of criticism. They had high rollover rates. Many lacked proper safety features. Sedans often felt much safer. It was a real concern for drivers. Frankly, it was a troubling time for SUV perceptions.
But things are vastly different now. The automotive world changed. New safety tech came along. Electronic stability control made a huge impact. Anti-lock Braking Systems ([ABS](https://www.nhtsa.gov/press-releases/us-transportation-secretary-mineta-announces-new-antilock-brake-system-standard)) became standard. Adaptive cruise control emerged. These systems changed everything. They transformed how SUVs handle crashes. They made them much more secure.
The Volvo XC90 stepped onto the scene in 2002. It was a game changer. This SUV was a pioneer. It came with many safety features. It really set a new standard. Suddenly, SUVs could be very safe. Lincoln joined this movement. The Aviator first appeared in 2003. It too has changed with the times. Both brands now meet high modern safety demands. It’s truly a testament to engineering progress.
I’m encouraged by this progress. It shows how much we value safety now. It’s no longer an afterthought. Car companies actively compete on safety. That’s a win for all of us, right? I am happy to see this evolution.
The Road Ahead: What’s Next for Safety?
What does the future hold for car safety? The auto industry is always moving forward. Safety tech is a huge focus. Experts say big changes are coming. We’ll see even more advancements. This will happen in the next five to ten years. That’s a very exciting thought.
Artificial intelligence ([AI](https://www.ibm.com/topics/artificial-intelligence)) in safety systems is one key area. Imagine cars talking to each other. They could prevent crashes before they start. This is called Vehicle-to-Vehicle ([V2V](https://www.nhtsa.gov/technology-innovation/vehicle-vehicle-communication)) communication. It could drastically cut down collisions. Road safety would get much better. It’s a game-changer, truly.
Autonomous driving is also growing. Cars will soon drive themselves more. This promises to reshape safety completely. If cars drive themselves, fewer human errors happen. The potential for fewer accidents is huge. A McKinsey report suggests this. Widespread self-driving cars could cut deaths. They might reduce traffic deaths by up to 90%. That’s an incredible number. I am excited to see this future unfold.
But here’s the thing, it won’t be easy. There are challenges to face. We need good regulations. Public trust is also vital. Yet, the potential benefits are clear. It’s a future worth working towards. I believe we can make our roads much safer for everyone.
Let’s Be Real: What Are the Downsides?
Nobody’s perfect, right? That goes for cars too. Both the Aviator and XC90 get lots of praise. Their safety features are top-notch. But some critics do have points. Neither vehicle is totally flawless. It’s important to know the whole picture.
Take the XC90, for instance. It wins many awards. Still, its infotainment system gets some flak. Some drivers find it distracting. It can be a bit complex. That’s a fair point to consider. A car’s controls should always be simple. They should not take your focus away from the road.
The Aviator has its own challenges. Its price tag can be high. That’s a big hurdle for some buyers. People want good value. They don’t want to skip on safety. Plus, owning a luxury SUV costs money. Insurance rates can be higher. Maintenance can get expensive too. These are real things to think about before buying. It’s more than just the sticker price.
I am happy to say both SUVs are truly safe. They show major leaps in car safety. But the best choice is personal. It depends on what you need. What are your own driving habits? Your budget matters a lot too. There’s no single right answer here.
Smart Steps for Your SUV Search
So, you’re thinking about a new SUV? That’s exciting! You want the safest one. There are some smart steps to take. Don’t rush into anything. Do your homework first. It really makes a difference.
First, check those crash test ratings. Look up NHTSA and IIHS results. These groups offer vital data. They tell you how cars perform in crashes. It’s like checking a safety report card. You want to see high marks there.
Always take a test drive. Feel how the car handles. Pay close attention to its safety features. Do they feel natural? Do they alert you well? How does the automatic braking respond? Your comfort with these systems is key. It’s not just about what features it has. It’s about how they work for you.
Think about real-world safety features. What matters most to you? Do you drive in busy traffic? Then collision avoidance is important. Do you worry about changing lanes? Blind-spot monitoring helps a lot. Pick features that match your driving needs. Don’t just pick based on a list.
Consider the full cost of ownership too. This means more than just buying price. What about insurance? How much will maintenance cost? Luxury cars can be pricey to fix. Get quotes for these things beforehand. You don’t want any surprises later on.
Stay updated on car news. Look for safety recalls. Learn about new tech advancements. The automotive world changes fast. Being informed helps you choose wisely. It keeps you ahead of the game.
Finally, talk to other owners. Get their honest opinions. What do they love? What frustrates them? Real-user insights are super valuable. They offer a perspective you won’t find in brochures. This entire process can be quite fun, actually.
Wrapping It Up: Making Your Choice
So, what’s the final word? The Lincoln Aviator and Volvo XC90 are truly excellent. Both have amazing safety records. The Aviator brings cool tech and luxury. It’s really innovative. The XC90, though, has a long history. It commits deeply to safety. Its advanced systems are remarkable. You simply can’t ignore that.
When I think about these two, one thing stands out. Choosing an SUV means balancing things. You weigh safety against your personal needs. Your preferences matter a lot too. Honestly, I’m so encouraged by how far vehicle safety has come. It’s really inspiring. I believe as technology keeps improving, our future roads will be safer. Imagine a future with far fewer accidents. Picture smarter cars protecting us better than ever. It’s a hopeful vision.
In the end, it’s your call. Will you pick the Lincoln Aviator? Or will the Volvo XC90 be your choice? Either way, you can feel really confident. You’ll be driving a car built with safety as a core idea. Your comfort and peace of mind are paramount. Both of these SUVs represent the very best in modern safety. That’s a great feeling, isn’t it?
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Got more questions? That’s totally normal! Here are some common ones people ask about car safety and these two SUVs. Let’s dig in.
1. Which SUV has better crash test ratings overall?
Both the Lincoln Aviator and Volvo XC90 earned five stars from NHTSA. But the IIHS gave the XC90 its Top Safety Pick+ award. That suggests an edge for the Volvo.
2. What are the main safety features in each vehicle?
The Aviator offers Ford’s Co-Pilot360 suite. This includes adaptive cruise control. The XC90 uses Volvo Pilot Assist. Both have advanced collision avoidance.
3. How do they perform in real-world situations?
Both cars have shown strong safety in real events. The XC90’s automatic braking has been cited. It prevented a serious child accident.
4. Is there a big difference in rollover risk?
The Aviator has a 10.2% rollover risk. The XC90 is slightly lower at 9.6%. Both are considered quite safe in this area.
5. What does the future hold for car safety tech?
Experts see huge advancements coming. AI integration is a focus. Autonomous driving will also play a big role. It promises far fewer accidents.
6. Why is Volvo often seen as a safety leader?
Volvo has a long history. Safety is part of its core design philosophy. They often aim to exceed industry standards. It’s part of their DNA.
7. How much do advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) help?
Research shows ADAS can greatly reduce injuries. Some reports suggest up to a 30% reduction. These systems make a big difference.
8. Are larger SUVs truly safer than smaller cars?
Yes, statistics often show this. Larger SUVs like these have lower fatality rates. Their size and strong structure offer more protection.
9. What are common criticisms of the Volvo XC90?
Some users find its infotainment system distracting. It can be a bit tricky to use. This is a minor point for some drivers.
10. What are common criticisms of the Lincoln Aviator?
Its price point can be a drawback. The cost of ownership also factors in. Think about insurance and maintenance costs too.
11. Should I prioritize crash test ratings or active safety features?
Both are important, honestly. Crash ratings show passive safety. Active features help prevent crashes. A good car balances both.
12. How has SUV safety changed since the 1990s?
It’s changed dramatically! Early SUVs had high rollover rates. Now, tech like stability control and ABS are standard. They are far safer now.
13. What is Vehicle-to-Vehicle (V2V) communication?
It’s when cars talk to each other. They share info to prevent crashes. Imagine a world where this stops most accidents. It’s coming.
14. How can I ensure I choose the safest SUV for myself?
Research ratings, take a good test drive. Look at real-world safety features. Consider the total cost of ownership too. Stay informed, always.
15. Is semi-autonomous driving safe?
Systems like Pilot Assist help reduce driver fatigue. They add an extra layer of safety. But drivers must always stay alert. They are aids, not replacements.
16. What’s the role of artificial intelligence in future car safety?
AI will power smarter systems. It will predict and prevent accidents better. It will make autonomous driving more reliable. It’s a huge step forward.
17. Does a higher price always mean better safety?
Not always, but often. Luxury vehicles usually have more advanced safety tech. However, great safety can be found across price points. Do your research.
18. How often should I check for vehicle safety recalls?
It’s a good idea to check regularly. Automakers issue recalls for safety issues. You can check the NHTSA website. Stay proactive for your safety.
19. What if I can’t afford a luxury SUV? Are cheaper cars still safe?
Absolutely! Many non-luxury brands offer great safety too. Modern safety standards apply to all new cars. Check their ratings just the same.
20. How important is a car’s size for safety?
Generally, larger vehicles offer more crash protection. This is due to their mass and structure. But smaller cars are much safer now than before.
