15 Safest Cars That Are Worth the Extra Cost

When it comes to choosing a new car, safety is a paramount concern for many drivers. While all vehicles on the market must meet certain safety standards, some go above and beyond, offering advanced features that can significantly enhance occupant protection in the event of an accident. Throughout this discussion, we explore the safest cars that justify their higher price tags with superior safety features and ratings. From family-friendly SUVs to sleek sedans, these vehicles deliver peace of mind alongside impressive performance and comfort.

BMW 3 Series

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The BMW 3 Series is a leader in automotive safety, integrating advanced active safety technologies and robust passive safety structures. Key features like automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and the option to add a Driving Assistance Professional Package, which offers semi-autonomous driving capabilities, highlight its focus on safety. Additionally, the car is built with high-strength materials that enhance the structural integrity of the vehicle, ensuring maximum protection during a collision. Its superior handling and accident avoidance systems also contribute to its high safety ratings, making it a preferred choice for those who value safety alongside the luxury and performance BMW is known for.

Audi Q7

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The Audi Q7 excels in safety with a comprehensive suite of advanced driver-assistance systems. This includes Audi Pre Sense Front and Rear, which prepare the vehicle and its occupants for a collision by partially closing sunroof and windows and pre-tensioning front safety belts. The inclusion of a top-view camera system aids in parking and maneuvering in tight spots, while vehicle exit warning enhances safety when opening doors. With its strong performance in crash tests and a reputation for durability, the Q7 offers peace of mind for families and enthusiasts alike.

Volvo XC90

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The Volvo XC90 sets a high standard for vehicle safety with its pioneering approach to collision prevention and occupant protection. It is equipped with Volvo’s Pilot Assist system, a semi-autonomous driving feature that keeps the car in the lane and manages speed based on the vehicle ahead. The XC90’s safety cage is made from ultra-high-strength boron steel, one of the strongest types available, providing exceptional protection. Its safety system also mitigates oncoming collisions and includes numerous passive safety technologies, making it one of the safest cars in its class.

Subaru Crosstrek

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Subaru’s Crosstrek offers an impressive array of safety features, particularly through its EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, which monitors traffic movement, optimizes cruise control, and warns drivers if they sway outside their lane. The all-wheel-drive system standard on all models provides superior traction in various weather conditions, enhancing safety. The Crosstrek’s frame is designed to absorb impact energy in case of a collision, and it consistently earns top marks from safety rating agencies, making it an ideal choice for safety-conscious buyers looking for a compact SUV.

Tesla Model Y

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Tesla’s Model Y is a testament to the brand’s commitment to safety. It benefits from a unique electric architecture that offers a lower center of gravity than traditional vehicles, significantly reducing rollover risk. The Model Y also includes Tesla’s Autopilot, an advanced driver-assistance system that has demonstrated proficiency in reducing accident rates. Additional safety features like an impact-absorbing crash structure and a rigid passenger compartment ensure that it remains one of the safest vehicles in its segment.

Toyota Highlander

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The Toyota Highlander is equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, a suite of active safety features designed to enhance protection and driver awareness. These features include advanced radar and camera capabilities to help mitigate or avoid potential accidents through automated driving assistance systems. The Highlander’s safety credentials are further supported by its robust build quality and excellent reliability ratings, making it a solid choice for families requiring a dependable and safe SUV.

Hyundai Santa Fe

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Hyundai’s Santa Fe is highly regarded for its commitment to safety, offering features such as Hyundai SmartSense, which bundles technologies like forward collision-avoidance assist and lane-keeping assist. The vehicle is designed to absorb and dissipate energy in the event of a collision, protecting occupants effectively. It also provides optional safety features such as Safe Exit Assist that prevents accidents when passengers exit the car. These features, combined with its affordability, provide substantial value to those looking for a safe and reliable vehicle.

BMW X5

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The BMW X5 combines luxury with top-notch safety features. It includes the BMW Active Driving Assistant, a suite of safety features that provide comprehensive on-road protection. These include blind spot detection, frontal collision warning, and lane departure warning. The X5’s build quality and safety-focused engineering, including options for active roll stabilization and night vision with pedestrian detection, make it an exemplar in its class for those who do not want to compromise on safety or comfort.

Acura Integra

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The revived Acura Integra brings a fresh focus on comprehensive safety technologies with the AcuraWatch suite. This includes advanced features like collision mitigation braking systems and road departure mitigation systems, which actively help to prevent accidents before they happen. The car’s new architecture also emphasizes passenger protection with advanced compatibility engineering body structure. The Integra’s commitment to safety is complemented by its sporty aesthetics and precision handling, appealing to a broad demographic of drivers.

Honda CR-V

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The Honda CR-V continues to be a leader in its class for safety, featuring the Honda Sensing Suite, which equips the vehicle with a range of proactive safety and driver-assist technologies. These technologies work together to address potential dangers on the road, including adaptive cruise control with low-speed follow and collision mitigation braking system. The vehicle’s design also prioritizes occupant protection, with advanced airbag systems and an ACE body structure that enhances crash safety.

Mazda CX-5

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The Mazda CX-5 is celebrated for its safety and stylish design. It features an array of active safety technologies under the i-ACTIVSENSE banner, which includes radar-based features like an adaptive front-lighting system. These systems help prevent accidents by enhancing the driver’s ability to predict and avoid hazards on the road. Furthermore, its rigid body and strategic use of high-strength steel in construction contribute to its high safety ratings.

Ford Explorer

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The Ford Explorer is equipped with the Ford Co-Pilot360, an advanced suite of standard driver-assist technologies intended to make driving safer and more intuitive. This includes features like automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection and a rear-view camera, which provide enhanced visibility and reactive safety measures. The Explorer’s safety is enhanced by its robust construction designed to protect passengers in the event of a collision, making it a family-friendly choice.

Chevrolet Equinox

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The Chevrolet Equinox provides essential safety features as standard, including Chevy Safety Assist which offers automated safety technologies such as automatic emergency braking and forward collision alert. The Equinox is designed with passenger safety in mind, featuring a high-strength steel safety cage and a comprehensive airbag system that shields occupants from harm in a crash.

Kia Telluride

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Kia’s Telluride is equipped with Kia Drive Wise, a collection of driver-assist technologies that enhance the safety of the vehicle. This includes systems like blind-spot collision avoidance and lane-keeping assist, which actively help to maintain vehicle safety on the road. The Telluride’s substantial size and high-quality build also contribute to its excellent safety ratings, making it an appealing choice for those looking for a large and safe family SUV.

Nissan Rogue

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The Nissan Rogue features the Nissan Safety Shield 360, a comprehensive suite of safety features that aim to protect passengers from all angles. This includes advanced systems like rear automatic braking and lane departure warning, which work together to create a safety net around the vehicle. The Rogue’s commitment to safety is complemented by its modern design and versatility, making it a popular choice for individuals and families alike.

This article originally appeared on MyCarMakesNoise.

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Author: Dave Johnston

Dave is a hands-on automotive technician with experience in performing service, diagnostics, and repairs on domestic and imported vehicles. He enjoys writing and sharing his knowledge far and wide.

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