2008 Suzuki Reno Safety Review [ 2007 ]
Based on analysis of 32 Reno reviews and test drives.
Safety - What the Auto Press Says
Reviewers hardly seem impressed with the Reno's very short and basic list of standard safety features. Additionally, the 2008 Reno gets mediocre scores in government and insurance industry crash tests.
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety awards the 2008 Reno an "Acceptable" rating (the second highest possible) in frontal crash tests. In government crash tests, the Reno earned four out of five stars in frontal offset tests, and four stars in side crashes. However, there was a safety concern during the side impact test that the left rear passenger could suffer serious head trauma in a side crash.
Accident Avoidance
All 2008 Suzuki Renos come standard with four-wheel disc brakes. An anti-lock brake system (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), however, is an optional feature. While the Hartford Courant claims that the Reno's standard braking system makes it "quite capable of stopping a base-model," the New York Times' experience with its tire-traction leaves one wondering: "It all became downright messy when, during a little late night joy-riding, the tires proved to have as much grip as a puppy on linoleum."
Despite Cars.com finding that "head restraints partially block the rearward view," rear door child safety locks, daytime running lights and a Tire Pressure Monitoring System contribute to overall safety and accident avoidance.
Crash Protection
The Reno is equipped with dual-stage driver and front passenger air bags, front seat-mounted side impact air bags, three-point safety belts for all passengers, child seat tether anchors, as well as front and rear side impact door beams to help ensure crash protection. "But there is no optional air bag protection for rear-seat passengers, which bothers me, especially if you are buying this car for a younger driver who undoubtedly will be transporting friends," says the Detroit News.
