In 2024, most vehicles come equipped with airbags, including side-impact airbags (often referred to as “cider bags” in some regions), which provide protection in side collisions. However, a few vehicles, particularly those in certain budget or compact car categories, may not feature side-impact airbags. The integration of side airbags is now a standard feature in many models, but not all vehicles, especially in the budget segment or older models, have adopted them. Additionally, specific recalls and safety updates affect which vehicles feature these airbags, particularly in light of issues with certain airbag systems, such as those from Takata.
What Are Side-Impact Airbags?
Side-impact airbags, often called cider bags, are safety features designed to protect occupants during a side collision. These airbags deploy from the side of the seat or door to cushion the occupant’s head and torso from impact with the vehicle’s interior or another vehicle. In 2024, side airbags are increasingly common, even in lower-cost models, but there are still exceptions.
Vehicles Likely to Be Without Side-Impact Airbags in 2024
While the majority of new vehicles come with side-impact airbags as a standard safety feature, some vehicles might not include them. For instance, the following types of cars might lack side-impact airbags or may have them as optional rather than standard:
- Economy and Budget Models: Some base models of budget-friendly cars may lack side-impact airbags. Manufacturers such as Hyundai, Chevrolet, and Toyota offer some entry-level models without side airbags in their most affordable trims. This is typically more common in subcompact and compact cars.
- Older Models: Vehicles from earlier years (such as pre-2014 models) are less likely to have these airbags. While most manufacturers began equipping their vehicles with side-impact airbags around the 2000s, many older models may not have this crucial feature.
- Certain Luxury Models: Some high-end vehicles may only offer side airbags as an optional upgrade, particularly in specific trim levels or older models. For example, certain trims of BMW or Mercedes-Benz may have side airbags only available with premium packages or higher-spec variants
Recall and Safety Updates on Airbags in 2024
In addition to the general trend in vehicle safety, specific vehicles may lack side-impact airbags due to ongoing recalls. One notable issue in recent years involves the Takata airbag recall. Takata airbags, particularly the inflators, have been the subject of a massive global recall due to their faulty design. These airbags have been implicated in a number of fatalities and injuries. In 2024, many vehicles are still being recalled for faulty Takata airbags, but these issues generally focus on the front airbags rather than the side-impact varieties
Manufacturers Who Have Improved Airbag Safety in 2024
Several major automakers have made significant strides in improving the safety features of their vehicles. These companies have ensured that their newer models, especially after 2020, come equipped with both front and side-impact airbags as standard features.
- Ford, Mazda, Subaru, and Honda are known for incorporating comprehensive airbag safety systems across their vehicle rangesThese manufacturers have made side-impact airbags a standard feature, even in some of their more affordable or compact models.
Vehicles That Might Not Have Side-Impact Airbags in 2024
Despite the increase in safety features, some vehicles may still lack side-impact airbags due to various factors such as age, market positioning, and cost-saving measures. Examples of such vehicles could include:
- Older vehicles from manufacturers like Ford, Mazda, or Toyota might not have been updated with the latest airbag systems.
- Base models of subcompact cars that are focused on providing an affordable entry point for car buyers, such as certain trims of the Chevy Spark or Kia Rio, which may exclude advanced safety features like side airbags unless an upgrade is chosen
Conclusion
In 2024, most new vehicles are equipped with side-impact airbags, but exceptions exist, particularly among older cars or budget models. If you’re purchasing a new car, side-impact airbags will likely be a standard feature, but for those considering used vehicles or looking at budget options, it’s important to verify whether this safety feature is included. Additionally, vehicle recalls related to Takata airbags continue to affect some vehicles, but the issue primarily pertains to front airbags, not side-impact versions. Always check the specifications and safety features of the car you’re interested in to ensure you’re getting the level of protection you need.
