Modern cars are generally safe, making it challenging to find a newer model that isn’t. Thanks to continuous technological advancements, vehicles today are significantly safer than those manufactured just a decade ago. Organizations like the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) rigorously evaluate vehicle safety, consistently raising their crash test and safety standards. A 2010 model tested against today’s criteria would likely perform poorly. While most vehicles are safe, some stand out with exceptional IIHS and NHTSA ratings.
This article presents the safest vehicles across various segments based primarily on IIHS ratings, with NHTSA ratings also considered. The IIHS is prioritized due to its comprehensive assessment, which includes six crash test ratings, evaluations of crash avoidance/prevention systems, and headlight performance. The IIHS also bestows two prestigious awards—Top Safety Pick and Top Safety Pick+—that are difficult to achieve. The IIHS crash avoidance test is particularly noteworthy as it evaluates the effectiveness of emergency automatic braking, a crucial driver-assist feature becoming increasingly prevalent in new models, either as standard equipment or optional add-ons.
Note: Automakers use different names for their driver-assist features. For clarity, this article uses common names. Not all vehicles undergo IIHS or NHTSA testing; many luxury models, sports cars, and large body-on-frame vehicles are either unrated or partially rated.
Ratings Explained
Here’s a breakdown of the ratings:
- IIHS Crash Test & Headlight Ratings (Best to Worst): Good, Acceptable, Marginal, Poor
- IIHS Crash Avoidance & Mitigation Ratings (Best to Worst): Superior, Advanced, Basic
- NHTSA Overall Safety Rating: 1 to 5 stars (5 being the highest)
For details on the IIHS Top Safety Pick criteria and their rating methodology, see IIHS Top Safety Pick Criteria and IIHS Ratings Chart.
Safest Subcompact Car: 2020 Kia Rio (Sedan and Hatchback)
2020 Kia RioImage used with permission by copyright holder
Small cars like the Kia Rio often face challenges in crash tests due to their size and weight. Achieving a perfect score is difficult, but the Rio performed admirably, only missing a “Good” rating in the demanding small overlap passenger-side test. The S trim offers forward collision alert and emergency automatic front braking.
IIHS:
- Award: None
- Crash Tests: Acceptable (small overlap front passenger-side), Good (all other tests)
- Crash Avoidance & Mitigation: Superior (Vehicle-to-vehicle), Superior (Vehicle-to-pedestrian)
- Headlights: Good, Poor (varies by trim)
NHTSA: Not rated. Standard driver-assist features: None (optional in S trim)
Safest Compact Car: 2020 Mazda 3 (Sedan and Hatchback)
2019 Mazda Mazda3Image used with permission by copyright holder
Outperforming popular competitors like the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla, the Mazda 3 boasts near-perfect scores across categories. Its numerous standard driver-assist features add to its appeal as a stylish and enjoyable compact car.
IIHS:
- Award: Top Safety Pick+
- Crash Tests: Good (all tests)
- Crash Avoidance & Mitigation: Superior (Vehicle-to-vehicle), Superior (Vehicle-to-pedestrian)
- Headlights: Good, Acceptable (varies by trim)
NHTSA: 5 stars. Standard driver-assist features: Forward collision alert, emergency automatic front braking, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, driver attention warning.
Safest Midsize Car: 2020 Subaru Legacy
2020 Subaru Legacy SportImage used with permission by copyright holder
The Subaru Legacy surpasses the Toyota Camry in IIHS testing, earning near-perfect marks. Standard all-wheel drive enhances the safety of this already secure sedan.
IIHS:
- Award: Top Safety Pick+
- Crash Tests: Good (all tests)
- Crash Avoidance & Mitigation: Superior (Vehicle-to-vehicle), Superior (Vehicle-to-pedestrian)
- Headlights: Good, Acceptable (varies by trim)
NHTSA: 5 stars. Standard driver-assist features: Forward collision alert, emergency automatic front braking, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control.
Safest Large Car: 2020 Nissan Maxima
2020 Nissan MaximaImage used with permission by copyright holder
Nissan’s flagship sedan is also exceptionally safe. Only its headlight rating prevents a perfect score. Unlike most on this list, the Maxima includes standard emergency automatic front and rear braking and blind spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert.
IIHS:
- Award: Top Safety Pick+
- Crash Tests: Good (all tests)
- Crash Avoidance & Mitigation: Superior (Vehicle-to-vehicle), Superior (Vehicle-to-pedestrian)
- Headlights: Acceptable
NHTSA: 5 stars. Standard driver-assist features: Forward collision alert, emergency automatic front and rear braking, lane departure warning, blind spot warning, rear cross-traffic alert, driver attention warning.
Safest Subcompact SUV: 2020 Subaru Crosstrek and Crosstrek Hybrid
2020 Subaru CrosstrekImage used with permission by copyright holder
Subaru’s smallest crossover excels in safety. Headlight performance on certain trims is the only blemish on an otherwise stellar record. Driver-assist features require the CVT transmission, not the manual. The hybrid model includes all available driver-assist features as standard.
IIHS:
- Award: Top Safety Pick+ (hybrid), Top Safety Pick (non-hybrid)
- Crash Tests: Good (all tests)
- Crash Avoidance & Mitigation: Superior (Vehicle-to-vehicle), Superior (Vehicle-to-pedestrian)
- Headlights: Good, Poor (some non-hybrid trims)
NHTSA: 5 stars. Standard driver-assist features (non-hybrid with CVT): Forward collision alert, emergency automatic front braking, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control. Standard driver-assist features (hybrid): Forward collision alert, emergency automatic front and rear braking, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert.
Safest Compact SUV: 2020 Subaru Forester
2019 Subaru ForesterImage used with permission by copyright holder
The popular Subaru Forester, like other Subarus on this list, is held back from perfect scores solely by its headlight ratings. It outperforms competitors like the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V.
IIHS:
- Award: Top Safety Pick+
- Crash Tests: Good (all tests)
- Crash Avoidance & Mitigation: Superior (Vehicle-to-vehicle), Superior (Vehicle-to-pedestrian)
- Headlights: Good, Acceptable (varies by trim)
NHTSA: 5 stars. Standard driver-assist features: Forward collision alert, emergency automatic front braking, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control.
Safest Midsize SUV: 2020 Mazda CX-9
2016 Mazda CX-9Image used with permission by copyright holder
The stylish three-row Mazda CX-9 is also a safe family vehicle. It achieved top marks in all crash tests and comes standard with a comprehensive suite of driver-assist features.
IIHS:
- Award: Top Safety Pick+
- Crash Tests: Good (all tests)
- Crash Avoidance & Mitigation: Superior (Vehicle-to-vehicle), Advanced (Vehicle-to-pedestrian)
- Headlights: Good, Marginal (varies by trim)
NHTSA: 5 stars. Standard driver-assist features: Forward collision alert, emergency automatic front braking, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control.
Safest Large SUV: 2020 Hyundai Palisade
2020 Hyundai PalisadeImage used with permission by copyright holder
The Hyundai Palisade, a relatively new three-row crossover, demonstrates impressive safety capabilities. Like many on this list, headlight ratings prevent a perfect score. It outperforms competitors like the Honda Pilot and Ford Explorer.
IIHS:
- Award: Top Safety Pick
- Crash Tests: Good (all tests)
- Crash Avoidance & Mitigation: Superior (Vehicle-to-vehicle), Superior (Vehicle-to-pedestrian)
- Headlights: Good, Marginal (varies by trim)
NHTSA: 5 stars. Standard driver-assist features: Forward collision alert, emergency automatic front braking, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, lane centering assist, driver attention warning, adaptive cruise control.
Safest Compact Truck: 2020 Toyota Tacoma
2020 Toyota TacomaImage used with permission by copyright holder
Despite its age, the rugged Toyota Tacoma offers robust safety, outperforming the Ford Ranger and Chevrolet Colorado/GMC Canyon. It comes standard with a commendable array of driver-assist features.
IIHS:
- Award: Top Safety Pick (2019)
- Crash Tests: Acceptable (small overlap front passenger-side), Good (all other tests)
- Crash Avoidance & Mitigation: Superior (Vehicle-to-vehicle), Not tested (Vehicle-to-pedestrian)
- Headlights: Good, Marginal (varies by trim)
NHTSA: Not rated. Standard driver-assist features: Forward collision alert, emergency automatic front braking, lane departure alert, adaptive cruise control.
Safest Full-Size Truck: 2020 Ram 1500
2020 Ram 1500Image used with permission by copyright holder
Achieving “Good” ratings in all crash tests is a feat for large pickup trucks, but the Ram 1500 manages it. While the Ford F-150 also scored well in crash tests, its “Poor” headlight rating puts it behind the Ram. Other large trucks like the Chevrolet Silverado, GMC Sierra, and Toyota Tundra didn’t achieve all “Good” crash test ratings. The Ram could improve by offering emergency automatic braking with pedestrian detection, a feature available in most vehicles on this list.
IIHS:
- Award: None
- Crash Tests: Good (all tests)
- Crash Avoidance & Mitigation: Superior (Vehicle-to-vehicle), Not available (Vehicle-to-pedestrian)
- Headlights: Good, Marginal (varies by trim)
NHTSA: 4-5 stars (varies by body style). Standard driver-assist features: None (optional as stand-alone features and packages).
Safest Minivan: 2020 Honda Odyssey
2018 Honda OdysseyImage used with permission by copyright holder
The Honda Odyssey is the only minivan to achieve a “Good” rating in all crash tests. Competitors like the Chrysler Pacifica and Toyota Sienna received mostly “Good” ratings but also had some “Marginal” and/or “Acceptable” ratings. Importantly for families, the Odyssey achieved the highest score in the LATCH ease of use test, surpassing all other minivans.
IIHS:
- Award: Top Safety Pick (2019)
- Crash Tests: Good (all tests)
- Crash Avoidance & Mitigation: Superior (Vehicle-to-vehicle), Not tested (Vehicle-to-pedestrian)
- Headlights: Acceptable, Marginal, Poor (varies by trim)
NHTSA: 5 stars (2019 model). Standard driver-assist features: None (requires EX trim or higher).
Safest Electric Vehicle (EV): 2020 Tesla Model 3
2020 Tesla Model 3Image used with permission by copyright holder
While many EVs lack crash test data, the Tesla Model 3’s excellent IIHS performance warrants its inclusion. A “Superior” vehicle-to-pedestrian rating would have given it a perfect scorecard. Impressively, the Model 3 received a “Good” headlight rating across all trims.
IIHS:
- Award: Top Safety Pick+
- Crash Tests: Good (all tests)
- Crash Avoidance & Mitigation: Superior (Vehicle-to-vehicle), Advanced (Vehicle-to-pedestrian)
- Headlights: Good
NHTSA: 5 stars. Standard driver-assist features: Forward collision alert, emergency automatic front braking, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, lane centering, blind spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control.
Safest Hybrid Car: 2020 Honda Insight
2020 Honda InsightImage used with permission by copyright holder
The Honda Insight, along with the Lexus NX, achieves perfect scores across the board. Without a dedicated hybrid category, it would have surpassed the Mazda 3 in the compact car segment. The popular Toyota Prius did not achieve perfect crash test scores. The Insight also comes standard with a robust suite of driver-assist features.
IIHS:
- Award: Top Safety Pick+
- Crash Tests: Good (all tests)
- Crash Avoidance & Mitigation: Superior (Vehicle-to-vehicle), Superior (Vehicle-to-pedestrian)
- Headlights: Good
NHTSA: 5 stars. Standard safety features: Forward collision alert, emergency automatic front braking, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, lane centering, adaptive cruise control.
Safest Midsize Luxury Car: 2020 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
2019 Mercedes-Benz C-ClassImage used with permission by copyright holder
The Mercedes-Benz C-Class achieves a perfect score when equipped with the top LED headlights and all available driver-assist features. Opting for the standard emergency automatic braking system and lesser headlights results in a lower score. The C-Class offers some of the most advanced driver-assist features available.
IIHS:
- Award: Top Safety Pick+
- Crash Tests: Good (all tests)
- Crash Avoidance & Mitigation: Superior (Vehicle-to-vehicle), Basic (standard system), Superior (optional system)
- Headlights: Good, Acceptable (varies by trim)
NHTSA: Not rated. Standard driver-assist features: Forward collision alert, emergency automatic front braking, blind spot monitoring, driver attention warning.
Safest Large Luxury Car: 2020 Audi A6
2020 Audi S6Image used with permission by copyright holder
Known for its technology, including safety features, the Audi A6’s perfect score is marred only by the headlight rating on one trim level. This luxury sedan performs exceptionally well in all other categories. While it doesn’t come standard with many driver-assist features, some of the market’s most advanced options are available.
IIHS:
- Award: Top Safety Pick+
- Crash Tests: Good (all tests)
- Crash Avoidance & Mitigation: Superior (Vehicle-to-vehicle), Superior (Vehicle-to-pedestrian)
- Headlights: Good, Acceptable (varies by trim)
NHTSA: Not rated. Standard driver-assist features: Forward collision alert, emergency automatic front braking, lane departure warning.
Safest Compact Luxury SUV: 2020 Lexus NX
2018 Lexus NX 300hImage used with permission by copyright holder
The Lexus NX, along with the Honda Insight, achieves perfect scores across all categories, including the challenging headlight test. It also offers a generous array of standard driver-assist features.
IIHS:
- Award: Top Safety Pick+
- Crash Tests: Good (all tests)
- Crash Avoidance & Mitigation: Superior (Vehicle-to-vehicle), Superior (Vehicle-to-pedestrian)
- Headlights: Good
NHTSA: 5 stars. Standard driver-assist features: Forward collision alert, emergency automatic front braking, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, lane centering, adaptive cruise control.
Safest Midsize Luxury SUV: 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE
Mercedes-Benz GLEImage used with permission by copyright holder
Similar to the C-Class, the Mercedes-Benz GLE can achieve perfect IIHS scores with optional advanced driver-assist features. The standard features have some limitations, as reflected in the vehicle-to-pedestrian rating.
IIHS:
- Award: Top Safety Pick+
- Crash Tests: Good (all tests)
- Crash Avoidance & Mitigation: Superior (Vehicle-to-vehicle), Basic (standard system), Superior (optional system)
- Headlights: Good, Acceptable (varies by trim)
NHTSA: Not rated. Standard driver-assist features: Forward collision alert, emergency automatic front braking, blind spot monitoring, driver attention alert.
Safest Large Luxury SUV: 2020 Cadillac XT6
2020 Cadillac XT6Image used with permission by copyright holder
The all-new Cadillac XT6 makes a strong safety statement with near-perfect ratings and a comprehensive suite of standard driver-assist features, including blind spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert.
IIHS:
- Award: Top Safety Pick+
- Crash Tests: Good (all tests)
- Crash Avoidance & Mitigation: Superior (Vehicle-to-vehicle), Superior (Vehicle-to-pedestrian)
- Headlights: Acceptable
NHTSA: 5 stars. Standard driver-assist features: Forward collision alert, emergency automatic front braking, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert.
