10 SUVs With Exceptional Safety Scores
Safety matters more than ever, and these 10 SUVs prove why they stand at the top of the rankings. With outstanding crash test results, advanced driver-assistance technologies, and rock-solid build quality, these models offer unmatched protection for families and daily commuters alike. If you want an SUV that puts safety first without compromising style or performance, this list is your guide.
Volvo XC90
It’s like their whole thing. The XC90 is this big, beautiful, Swedish tank. It just feels safe. It’s got all the tech like, it’ll basically steer and brake for you if you’re about to run into something. And the interior is so nice and minimalist. It’s not cheap, though, uhm, I think it starts around, what, $55,000? But you’re paying for that peace of mind. It’s the kind of car you buy and just never worry about.
Subaru Ascent
Oh, Subaru! They’re so underrated. The Ascent is this big family hauler, and it comes standard with all their amazing all-wheel-drive and EyeSight safety stuff. Like, you don’t have to option it, it’s just there. It’s not the flashiest SUV, you know? But it’s so practical and, honestly, it just gets top marks everywhere. For a three-row SUV, it’s a steal, starting at like $35,000.
Tesla Model Y
This one’s interesting because it’s all electric. And because it’s got a super low center of gravity from the battery pack, it’s really hard to flip over. Plus, the whole structure is just… rigid. The minimal interior is kinda love-it-or-hate-it, though. Uhm, price-wise, it starts around $44,000, but you know, after incentives and stuff, maybe less? It’s the safe choice for the techy family.
Mazda CX-5
Okay, I just love Mazdas. The CX-5 is, like, the SUV that drives like a car. It doesn’t have the most powerful engine, but it’s so refined and just… pleasant. It feels more expensive than it is. You can get a really nice one for, uhm, well under $40,000. It’s my go-to recommendation for anyone who doesn’t want a boring SUV.
Hyundai Tucson
Hyundai has gotten so good, it’s crazy. The Tucson is a great example it looks funky, but it’s packed with standard safety features. And the warranty is amazing. It’s a fantastic value. I think it starts at like $27,000? That’s just… wild for how much car you get. Seriously impressive.
Ford Explorer
The classic American SUV. The Explorer is huge, and now it’s got this really robust safety suite available, with evasive steering assist and all that cool stuff. It’s not always standard on the base model, you gotta check the trim, but when it’s equipped, it’s a top scorer. It’s the one you see everywhere for a reason.
Honda CR-V
The CR-V is just… it’s the gold standard, you know. Honda Sensing is standard now, which is great. It’s not the most exciting car to drive, but it’s so good at being an appliance. A really, really safe appliance. Uhm, you’re looking at maybe $30,000 to start? It’s a no-brainer for a lot of people.
Audi Q5
If you want something a little more… premium, the Audi Q5 is a great pick. It’s a Top Safety Pick+, and it feels it. The interior is gorgeous, the tech is fantastic, and it just feels so solid on the road. The Quattro all-wheel-drive is awesome in bad weather, too. It’s not cheap—starts around $45,000 but you get what you pay for. It’s a safe and stylish choice.
Toyota Highlander
You can’t have this list without a Toyota, right? The Highlander is the definition of dependable. It’s roomy, it’s comfortable, and it’ll probably run for 300,000 miles. It’s not gonna set your soul on fire, but it’ll protect your family forever. Starts at about $37,000. It’s the sensible shoe of SUVs.
Lexus RX
And finally, the Lexus RX. It’s like the Highlander’s way fancier, quieter, more comfortable cousin. It gets all the top safety awards, and it’s just a lovely place to be. It’s so smooth and quiet, you feel insulated from the world, in a good way. It’s a bit more of an investment, starting around $49,000, but if you want luxury and safety, it’s hard to beat.
