When it comes to family transportation, safety trumps everything. We've compiled the safest vehicles based on IIHS Top Safety Pick+ awards and NHTSA 5-star ratings.
Understanding Safety Ratings
Two organizations test vehicle safety in the US:
- IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety): Conducts rigorous crash tests and evaluates crash avoidance technology
- NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration): Government agency providing 5-star safety ratings
Safest SUVs for Families
1. Mazda CX-90 - IIHS Top Safety Pick+
Mazda's three-row SUV combines luxury, performance, and top-tier safety. Standard i-Activsense safety features include automatic emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring.
2. Hyundai Palisade - IIHS Top Safety Pick+
The Palisade offers excellent crash protection, intuitive driver assistance systems, and a spacious interior for the whole family.
3. Kia Telluride - IIHS Top Safety Pick+
The Telluride shares its platform with the Palisade but offers unique styling and features, with equally impressive safety ratings.
4. Subaru Ascent - IIHS Top Safety Pick+
Subaru's EyeSight driver assistance system is one of the best in the industry, and the Ascent's standard AWD adds all-weather confidence.
Safest Minivans
- Toyota Sienna: IIHS Top Safety Pick+ with standard hybrid powertrain
- Honda Odyssey: Excellent crash protection and advanced safety tech
- Chrysler Pacifica: Strong safety ratings with available AWD
Safest Sedans for Families
- Toyota Camry: Top Safety Pick+ with standard Toyota Safety Sense
- Honda Accord: Excellent crash protection and Honda Sensing standard
- Subaru Legacy: Standard AWD and EyeSight safety suite
Key Safety Features to Look For
- Automatic Emergency Braking: Applies brakes to prevent or reduce collision severity
- Blind Spot Monitoring: Alerts you to vehicles in adjacent lanes
- Lane Departure Warning: Warns when you drift from your lane
- Rear Cross-Traffic Alert: Warns of approaching vehicles when backing up
- Adaptive Cruise Control: Maintains safe following distance automatically
Our Top Recommendation
For families needing three rows, the Hyundai Palisade or Mazda CX-90 offer the best combination of safety, space, and value. For two-row needs, the Subaru Outback is hard to beat.
