Beginning with 2006 models, the side airbags became optional for both the front and second row seating positions (front only in 2005). Also beginning with 2006 models manufactured after November 2005, the vehicle floor was reinforced to improve occupant protection in side impact crashes (note: information about when a specific vehicle was manufactured is on the certification label typically affixed to the car on or near the driver door). Further changes were made starting with 2006 models manufactured after February 2006 to strengthen the standard second row bucket seats for side impact crashes. (The optional captain's chairs were modified earlier.)
Two tests of the Uplander were conducted, one with optional side airbags for the driver and rear passenger, and one without. Both vehicles were manufactured after all design changes for 2006 had been made. These vehicles are rated separately, except that the structural ratings for both vehicles are based on both tests. In both tests, there were problems with the seats occupied by the rear passenger dummies. During the first test, all four of the attachment points for the optional captain's chair (with side airbag) released, allowing the seat to become completely dislodged. In the second test with the standard bucket seat (and no side airbag), one attachment point released and a second one broke, allowing partial separation of the seat from the floor. While these seat separations did not appear to exacerbate any injury measures recorded by the rear dummies, such separations should not occur.
Please note that roadtests.com provides the test of the model equipped WITH the optional side-impact airbags only. In the test without these airbags, the Uplander fared much worse, earning an overall "Poor" evaluation due to a "Marginal" head-injury rating on both sides and high torso injury measures on the driver's side. Roadtests.com would thus like to encourage buyers to specify the optional side-impact airbags upon purchase.
