Safest Family Cars - 2024 Guide
Safety is a top priority for most people when buying a new car, especially when this car will be used for a family. Our team has prepared this comprehensive guide to the safest cars for 2024. It highlights top safety picks from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), looks at the brands with the best safety scores, breaks down recommendations based on vehicle type and price range, and provides tips for researching used vehicles.
Safety by Car Type
Bigger vehicles usually perform better in crashes than smaller ones. So, even if a smaller car receives a higher safety rating than a larger one, this doesn’t necessarily make the smaller car safer. On the other hand, though size and weight are important factors, they are not the only ones—others include smart design, reliable crash test performance, and whether cutting-edge safety features are built into the vehicle.
Comparing Larger and Smaller Cars
Again, SUVs and pickup trucks generally have an edge over small cars in an accident because of their larger size and weight. Additional factors that enhance protection in SUVs and trucks include:
- Stronger frames and construction to withstand rollovers and high-impact crashes.
- Higher ground clearance to lower the risk of multi-vehicle pileups.
- Advanced safety features, such as electronic stability control and side curtain airbags.
That said, plenty of small cars hold their own in the safety game. Features that help level the playing field include anti-lock brakes, high-strength steel cages, and smart airbag systems. In fact, some compact models perform better in crash tests compared to larger ones. The key to purchasing a smaller vehicle without compromising safety is to pick one that stands out in its weight class.
Safest Car Brands
It pays to look at the big picture when shopping for a safe vehicle. According to the U.S. News & World Report’s ranking of car brands based on average safety score, these manufacturers lead the pack:
- Toyota
- Kia
- Infiniti
- Audi
- Ford
- Volkswagen
- Hyundai
- Subaru
- Mazda
- Lexus
- BMW
- Volvo
These brands consistently impress the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) with their commitment to keeping customers safe. Most models in their lineups come with advanced safety features and ace crash safety tests.
Toyota, for example, has built its reputation largely based on quality and safety. The Toyota Camry midsize sedan scored a perfect 5-star rating for overall crash protection from the NHTSA and snagged a Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS (as long as you select the right headlights).
Car Safety Ratings
When exploring the world of vehicle safety, don’t just take the dealership’s word for it. Check out ratings and awards from leading independent testing programs:
- The IIHS rates vehicles on crashworthiness, crash avoidance, and headlight quality. Vehicles that excel in these assessments receive Top Safety Pick and Top Safety Pick+ awards.
- The NHTSA assigns a 1-to-5 star rating for different models based on frontal, side, and rollover crash tests. Look for an overall 5-star rating.
Safest Cars in 2024
We focus more on IIHS ratings on this page since they dig deeper into crash protection features and safety technology like automatic emergency braking. This section highlights the IIHS Safety Pick+ choices for 2024:
Safest Small Cars Top Safety Pick+
- Acura Integra
- Mazda 3 Sedan
- Mazda 3 Hatchback
- Toyota Prius
The Mazda 3 received a Top Safety Pick+ award for its sedans and hatchbacks. Both have advanced safety features like pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, and blind spot monitoring.
Safest Midsize Cars – Top Safety Pick+
- Honda Accord
- Hyundai Ioniq 6
The Honda Accord 4-door sedan earned top honors with a Top Safety Pick+ award. It comes equipped with Honda Sensing technology, including collision-mitigation braking, road-departure mitigation, and traffic sign recognition.
Safest SUVs and Pickups – Top Safety Pick+
- Genesis GV60
- Hyundai Kona
- Hyundai Ioniq 5
- Honda HR-V
- Mazda CX-50
- Mazda CX-30
- Ford Explorer
- Kia Telluride
- Mazda CX-90
- Mazda CX-90 PHEV
- Nissan Pathfinder
- Subaru Ascent
- Acura MDX
- BMW X3
- Genesis GV80
- Lincoln Nautilus
- Mercedes-Benz GLE Class
- Tesla Model Y
- Rivian R1T Crew Cab Pickup
The Ford Explorer and Kia Telluride are spacious midsize SUVs that don’t skimp on safety. These models have front and rear automatic emergency braking, blind spot collision avoidance, and rear cross-traffic alerts.
Shopping for Used Cars
When looking for an affordable used car that won’t break the bank, hunt for a model that earned high safety marks when new. The IIHS safety ratings for used cars and NHTSA’s 5-Star Safety Ratings are goldmines that can help you check crash test results for vehicles dating back to 1990.
A used car with a 5-star NHTSA rating and a “Good” or “Acceptable” IIHS rating may be a safe bet. Have a mechanic ensure all the safety gear is still in good shape.
Safe Cars With Good Value and the Best Cars for Young Drivers
When searching for an affordable and safe vehicle for teens, check out the IIHS list of recommended new and used cars. In general, the vehicles selected as the safest cars for teens should ace safety and reliability tests.
The Mazda 3 (sedan or hatchback), Honda Civic, and Toyota Corolla make the cut for safest used cars. For newer rides, keep an eye on the Hyundai Tucson and Mazda CX-30. No matter your budget, the lists above likely include a safe vehicle that will work for you and your teen.
Safety Features That Protect Small Children
Shopping for the safest family cars? Look for these key safety features to keep you and your children safe:
- LATCH system – Secures car seats using lower anchors and upper tethers.
- Child door locks – Prevent rear doors from being opened from the inside.
- Advanced airbags – Include occupant detection and low-risk deployment.
- Side curtain airbags – Provide head protection during side crashes and rollovers.
Choosing the right car seat is particularly important when protecting young children. Always install a car seat that complies with safety regulations based on your child’s age, weight, and height. No exceptions.
How To Do Research When Buying a New Car
Having a game plan when hunting for the safest ride for you and your family can help. Here are some tips:
- Check the IIHS and NHTSA ratings for all new and used vehicle models you are considering.
- Look for automatic emergency braking and adaptive headlights. These are game-changers when it comes to safety.
- Ensure all airbags, seatbelts, tires, brakes, and safety systems are in top shape.
- Investigate recalls. Don't get caught off guard!
- Test drive vehicles, evaluating visibility, handling, acceleration, and overall “safety feel."
Bottom line? Protecting yourself and your passengers should be a top priority when buying a vehicle. We hope this guide steers you toward a safe and reliable car, truck, or SUV. Drive safe!
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