Determining the safest cars to own involves considering factors like crash test ratings, advanced safety features, and overall reliability. It can be challenging to navigate through the numerous features and car styles to find the best protection for your family. However, there are two organizations dedicated to evaluating cars that can provide valuable guidance. Checking the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s 5 Star Rating and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety’s Top Picks can serve as reliable starting points for identifying safe vehicles. These organizations assess various aspects of car safety to help you make an informed decision.
The following list comprises cars that have received top scores from both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). These vehicles were tested by both organizations and achieved the highest ratings in their respective classes for the model year 2015. They have been categorized based on their body types.
Small Cars
- Subaru Impreza – has been recognized with a prestigious Top Safety Pick Plus award, achieving the highest rating for its front crash prevention technologies, which has been rated as ‘Superior’. The Impreza underwent various tests, including evaluations of its performance in small front overlap, moderate front overlap, side impact, roof strength, and the effectiveness of head restraints and seat belts. The Impreza demonstrates excellence with a score of 14 out of 15, and it received 4 out of 5 for its frontal crash score, further highlighting its impressive safety features.
The runners up in the Small Car category included the iconic Honda Civic and the Subaru Crosstek.
Midsize
In the Midsize Sedan category, there is a remarkable deadlock as two vehicles achieve an “Absolute Perfect” score across both organizations. Additionally, three other models secure a top 10 position, resulting in a highly competitive field.
- Honda Accord – the two door version received an ‘Absolute Perfect’ TSP+ and 5 with 15/15. Honda vehicles often receive high safety ratings and offer features like Honda Sensing, which includes collision mitigation braking, lane-keeping assist, road departure mitigation, and adaptive cruise control.
- Subaru Legacy – the Subaru name is synonymous with quality and durability. Subaru has a reputation for producing vehicles with high safety standards, and the Legacy is no exception. The Legacy is equipped with various safety features and technologies designed to enhance occupant protection and accident avoidance.
- Hyundai Sonata – The three way tie of the next three vehicles is proof that a midsize vehicle can be very protecting on the roads. Remember most of these tests were done with ‘all’ the optional features in each model. They should be included when purchasing.
Midsize Luxury
- Lexus ES 350 – was the only midsize luxury sedan to be qualified for this list, which is surprising with the many brands and monikers that vie for your purchases.
Large Family
- Toyota Avalon – provides the only option for families that want the ultimate protection. The Toyota Avalon typically comes equipped with a variety of standard safety features, including multiple airbags, anti-lock brakes, electronic stability control, traction control, and a rearview camera. Additionally, many Avalon models also offer optional advanced safety technologies such as forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane departure warning.
Large Luxury
- Acura RLX – when it comes to a large luxury sedan, the Acura RLX and Hyundai Genesis were two models gained the other 2 across both testing.
- Hyundai Genesis – The Genesis brand is Hyundai’s luxury division, and their vehicles typically come with a range of safety features and perform well in crash tests. Although the Hyundai Genesis is no longer in production as a standalone model, it has been replaced by the Genesis G80 and G90 models, which continue to prioritize safety.
The venerable Mercedes E Class receives an honourable mention.
Small SUV
- Mazda CX-5 – is worthy of your choice in the Small SUV category. It has consistently performed well in crash tests conducted by organizations such as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
If you are looking for alternatives, the Subaru Forester and Toyota Rav4 come in a close second with only one star separating the three.
Midsize Luxury SUV
- Acura MDX – a near spotless, the Acura provides a great option if you are looking for a larger and more luxurious SUV.
Lexus RX is an honorable running mate, losing to the Acura by one.
Please remember that these agencies do not test ‘every’ single vehicle ever produced, so even a list that combines vehicles from both agencies can be missing a considerable number of models. However the agencies do check a wide array.
In terms of brands known for their quality and safe automobiles, here are a few companies to mention.
Subaru vehicles consistently receive high safety ratings. The company focuses on all-wheel drive technology and includes safety features such as EyeSight, which offers features like adaptive cruise control, pre-collision braking, and lane departure warning.
Tesla cars have scored well in crash tests and come with a range of advanced safety features. The Autopilot system offers features like automatic emergency braking, collision warning, and blind-spot monitoring.
Volvo has long been associated with safety innovations and has a reputation for building some of the safest cars on the road. Their models often come equipped with advanced safety technologies like City Safety, Lane Keeping Aid, and Run-off Road Mitigation.
Toyota has a strong reputation for reliability and safety. Many of their models feature Toyota Safety Sense, a suite of advanced safety systems that include pre-collision systems, lane departure alert, and adaptive cruise control.
Honda vehicles often receive high safety ratings and offer features like Honda Sensing, which includes collision mitigation braking, lane-keeping assist, road departure mitigation, and adaptive cruise control.
Audi vehicles are known for their robust safety features and innovative technology. They incorporate features like pre-sense technology, adaptive cruise control, and active lane assist to enhance driver and passenger safety.
Mercedes-Benz models often come with a comprehensive suite of safety features. They focus on technologies like collision prevention assist, attention assist, blind-spot assist, and active lane-keeping assist.
BMW prioritizes safety in their vehicles, equipping them with features like forward collision warning, lane departure warning, pedestrian detection, and automatic emergency braking.
The safety features of your car not only protect you and your loved ones but also have an impact on your insurance costs. Auto insurance premiums are determined based on the likelihood of the carrier having to pay for damages. A reliable vehicle reduces the chances of serious injuries to you and your passengers in the event of an accident. Given the high costs of hospital bills and the prevalence of liability claims in America, insurers are more inclined to offer lower rates to owners of safer cars. So, in addition to safety, finding the best car in its class can also lead to cheaper automobile insurance premiums.
It is worth noting that vehicle safety standards continue to advance each year. Therefore, if you wish to take advantage of the latest safety features, you may consider updating your car every few years. This principle also applies to other technological advancements and conveniences in vehicles, such as connectivity options, GPS technology, and crash avoidance features. By staying up to date with newer models, you can benefit from the most recent protections and enjoy the latest advancements in automotive technology.