Among the 2024 Jeep Wagoneer, Chevrolet Tahoe and Ford Expedition in IIHS’s June 2024 comparison, the Jeep Wagoneer was the only one to earn a 2024 TOP SAFETY PICK. That makes it the strongest documented choice among those three—not a proven safest SUV across every full-size model, trim or crash scenario. It also fell short of IIHS’s higher TOP SAFETY PICK+ award because of its result in the updated moderate-overlap test, which assesses rear-seat protection.
Which 2024 full-size SUV had the strongest safety result?
IIHS calls its category “Large SUVs,” which is not an exact match for the everyday term “full-size.” Its 2024 award list covers vehicles beyond the traditional large-SUV comparison here. In IIHS’s direct comparison of three popular large SUVs, however, the Wagoneer was the sole 2024 TOP SAFETY PICK. The IIHS comparison identifies the tested ranges as 2023–24 for all three vehicles, so check the specific model year and vehicle configuration before applying a result to a particular SUV.
How the Wagoneer, Tahoe and Expedition compare
| 2024 model | IIHS outcome | Notable results |
|---|---|---|
| Jeep Wagoneer | 2024 TOP SAFETY PICK | Good in small-overlap front and updated side tests; good standard pedestrian front crash prevention; headlights across trims rated acceptable or good. It did not earn TOP SAFETY PICK+ because its updated moderate-overlap result did not meet the higher award’s standard. |
| Chevrolet Tahoe | Did not qualify for a 2024 TOP SAFETY PICK | Driver-side small-overlap rating was acceptable, but passenger-side performance was worse. Pedestrian front crash prevention was marginal and the headlights supplied for the evaluation were poor. Updated side rating was good. |
| Ford Expedition | Did not qualify for a 2024 TOP SAFETY PICK | Small-overlap structure was rated marginal; pedestrian front crash prevention was good, while headlights were marginal. Updated side rating was good. |
These are IIHS results, not NHTSA star ratings. The updated side test was good for all three, so it does not separate them in this comparison. The differences show why an overall award should be read alongside individual crashworthiness and crash-avoidance results.
What the Wagoneer’s award does—and does not—say
For 2024, IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK required good ratings in small-overlap front, original moderate-overlap front and updated side tests, plus acceptable or good standard headlights and pedestrian front crash prevention. TOP SAFETY PICK+ required good small-overlap and updated side ratings, acceptable or good performance in the updated moderate-overlap test, and acceptable or good standard headlights and pedestrian crash prevention. See IIHS award criteria for the award framework.
#1 Best Overall
- MATCHBOX MOVING PARTS: Features authentic moving parts that bring this 2025 Jeep Wagoneer S model to life for an interactive play experience.
- DIE CAST METAL CONSTRUCTION: Crafted from high-quality die cast metal for a durable, realistic feel that collectors and kids alike will appreciate.
- 1:64 SCALE MODEL: Precisely scaled at 1:64, capturing the bold and modern design details of the full-size 2025 Jeep Wagoneer S.
- STRIKING SILVER FINISH: Showcases a sleek silver color that highlights the sharp lines and contemporary styling of the Jeep Wagoneer S.
- COLLECTIBLE & GIFTABLE: A great addition to any die cast vehicle collection, perfect for Matchbox enthusiasts and Jeep fans of all ages.
The updated moderate-overlap test emphasizes protection for people in the rear seat. The Wagoneer’s failure to reach TOP SAFETY PICK+ is therefore relevant to families who regularly carry rear-seat passengers; its TOP SAFETY PICK does not erase that limitation. IIHS evaluates both crashworthiness and crash avoidance or mitigation, and the award is a threshold summary rather than a guarantee of equal performance in every type of crash.
How to use NHTSA ratings alongside IIHS results
NHTSA’s 5-Star Safety Ratings program evaluates frontal, side and rollover crash performance. NHTSA advises comparing frontal and overall ratings only among vehicles in the same class and within 250 pounds of one another. Its guidance allows side and rollover ratings to be compared across classes. A “Not Rated” result means that vehicle was not tested for that crash condition; it is not, by itself, evidence of poor performance. Use NHTSA’s ratings and vehicle comparison tools to check the exact model year and configuration. Exact NHTSA star ratings for these three SUVs are not established here, so do not infer them from the IIHS awards.
Rank #2
![Matchbox 2022 Jeep Wagoneer [Dark Blue] 125/125, 1:64 Scale Diecast Toy Vehicle](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51ahP9pju6L._SL160_.jpg)
- 2022 Jeep Wagoneer in a Deep Blue Finish!
- Number 125/125 in the Series!
- 1:64 Scale Diecast Toy Vehicle
What to check before choosing a specific SUV
- Model year and configuration: Match the vehicle’s model year, trim and build details to the applicable IIHS result. Confirm whether the tested headlights and safety systems are standard or otherwise apply to the vehicle you are considering.
- Occupant row and crash type: Review individual test categories, including the updated moderate-overlap result if you carry rear-seat passengers.
- Crash avoidance and visibility: Compare pedestrian front crash prevention and the headlights applicable to the trim; the three models did not perform alike in these areas.
- NHTSA test coverage: Check the vehicle’s own records and compare ratings only under NHTSA’s class and weight guidance. Do not treat an untested condition as a poor score.
Why “safest” needs context
IIHS says that more than 90% of new models had earned good ratings in its small-overlap evaluation since 2021. That statistic is limited to new models and that particular test; it does not describe every crash or every dimension of vehicle safety. IIHS also notes that larger, heavier vehicles generally offer occupants more protection than smaller, lighter vehicles, while their mass can increase danger to other road users. A vehicle award cannot capture every trade-off or establish a universal ranking across vehicle sizes.
Quick Recap
Rank #4
Rank #3
![Matchbox 89 Jeep Grand Wagoneer, Road Trip 7/20 [Black]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41oVRWdCEuL._SL160_.jpg)
- Iconic Design Recreation: This 1:64 scale die-cast model authentically captures the legendary 1989 Jeep Grand Wagoneer with meticulous attention to detail, featuring a sleek black finish that highlights the classic lines and rugged character of this beloved SUV
- Road Trip Collection: Part of the exclusive Road Trip series (7/20), this collectible vehicle celebrates the spirit of adventure and open-road exploration, making it a must-have addition for Matchbox enthusiasts and series completists
- Premium Die-Cast Construction: Crafted from durable die-cast metal with high-quality materials, this model ensures long-lasting play value and maintains its pristine appearance whether displayed on a shelf or used in imaginative adventures
- Realistic Detailing: Features authentic styling elements including smooth rolling wheels, accurate proportions, and carefully replicated design elements that bring the classic Grand Wagoneer to life in miniature form
- Versatile Play Value: Perfect for both serious collectors seeking to complete their Matchbox collection and young adventurers ready to create exciting off-road expeditions and city cruising scenarios through imaginative play
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
Recommended Free Tools
