What are the Safest SUVs

An SUV is a good option if you need to carry your whole crew or haul tons of gear. But with so many choices, it can be tough to pick the safest ones.

So let’s look at what are the safest SUVs and what makes an SUV safe. We’ll recommend 24 top-rated options from small/compact to large to fit different needs. So, let’s get started:

What Makes An SUV Truly Safe? - 7 Factors to Consider:

Safety should always come first when buying an SUV. Here are a few factors that should be considered for safety:

Crash test ratings

When looking at a vehicle’s crash test scores, consider its overall rating and how it performs in specific tests.

Higher ratings from organizations like the IIHS and NHTSA mean the SUV has a robust structure that better protects passengers during front, side, and rear impacts and rollovers, lessening injuries and controlling forces.

Frame Construction

The frame provides the skeleton for safety. Advanced high-strength steel alloy constructions are both resistant and flexible to manage impact energy in the most beneficial way.

Frames with specially reinforced areas in critical locations offer optimal protection for occupants. Connections to strong pillars also maintain a safe cabin space.

Airbags

More airbags that protect different regions, such as dual front, side curtains, and knee bags, are now commonplace.

Intelligent systems use sensors to monitor crash severity and seat positions to tailor airbag deployment to each circumstance. This customized approach enhances protection.

Braking performance

Top-rated braking incorporates important technologies like ABS, stability control, brake assist, and regenerative mechanisms to swiftly bring the large vehicle to a stop in emergency situations.

Powerful ventilated disc brakes on all wheels paired with big brake pads and rotors deliver a reassuring command of the SUV.

Visibility

Being able to see clearly is key to safety. Large windows and thin roof pillars maximize outward visibility while minimizing blind spots.

Rear and side cameras further remove low-speed visibility restrictions. Heightened seating position provides superior oversight of the roadway.

Driver assistance features

Active safety systems such as blind spot tracking, rear cross-traffic alerts, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control use cameras and sensors to alert drivers and possibly prevent or lessen accidents. Robust suites give the best coverage.

Passenger compartment structure

Advanced high-strength metals build a resilient, protective cabin even after severe crashes by shielding passengers.

Features like crumple zones effectively absorb and distribute crash forces instead of transferring them straight into the interior living space. Interior layouts with minimal protrusions further fortify protection.

8 Safest Small/Compact SUVs

2024 Mazda CX-50

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 has a variety of intelligent safety features to help protect passengers. These include Blind Spot Monitoring, which uses radar sensors to detect vehicles entering the blind spots and alerts the driver with a visual cue. Traffic Jam Assist uses radar and cameras to assist with steering, braking, and acceleration in congested traffic up to 40 km/h. Front and rear parking sensors, along with a nice 360-degree view monitor, provide greater visibility when maneuvering in tight spaces. Advanced safety tech like these reflect Mazda’s emphasis on imbuing their vehicles with a heightened sense of security and peace of mind.

Adaptive Front Lighting System

The CX-50’s accessible adaptive front lighting system aids drivers in brightly lit country drives after dark. As the steering wheel is revolved, the multifunctional LED headlamps pivoted in the exact direction of the change to increase the visual aspect and assist motorists in detecting any likely issues moving forward. This highlights Mazda’s focus on adapting its designs to help people see clearly and travel confidently anytime.

Active Driving Display

The offered Active Driving Display projects a compact visual onto the windshield within the driver’s field of vision, relaying crucial statistics like velocity, following distance, and more. This makes critical real-time guidance continuously viewable to support safer choices and control while driving instead of needing to briefly glance away from the roadway.

2023 Tesla Model Y

The Tesla Model Y utilizes various smart technologies to provide a safe experience. Lane Assist and adaptive cruise control with lane centering help guide the vehicle. Collision Avoidance Assist works to prevent accidents using automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection. A cabin camera allows keeping an eye on rear passengers for their protection. These advanced attributes exemplify Tesla’s focus on constructing their electric models to be among the most secure in their class.

Rapid Charging Capability

The Tesla Model Y is fitted with a battery that charges rapidly using the Tesla Supercharger network. With over 25,000 Superchargers worldwide, owners can charge on long trips and add roughly 200 additional miles of range in approximately 30 minutes. This extensive fast-charging system makes long-distance travel hassle-free.

Impressive Driving Range

With an EPA estimated range reaching up to 330 miles on a single charge, the Tesla Y offers drivers a calming freedom from gas station stops. Its big battery and efficient electric powertrain allow enjoyable excursions far beyond where most other EVs can travel currently. This lofty range no doubt contributes to the Model Y being regarded as one of the market’s safest small electric SUVs.

2024 BMW X3

BMW ensures safety is at the forefront of all vehicle designs. Standard features within the 2024 X3, like Active Blind Spot Detection and Lane Departure Warning, alert motorists to nearby risks. Front Collision Warning coupled with City Mitigation Braking intervenes automatically if an imminent crash is detected at under 35 mph, no doubt contributing to the X3 being regarded as one of the market’s safest small luxury SUVs.

Powerful yet Efficient Turbocharged Engine

A 3.0L turbocharged inline six-cylinder produces quick acceleration while maintaining good fuel efficiency. This allows stress-free highway passing and merging into dense city traffic with speed and confidence.

Intuitive Control via BMW’s iDrive Infotainment

BMW’s refined iDrive interface puts important functions right at the driver’s fingertips through a center command display and controller. Media, navigation, and vehicle settings are easy to navigate via the responsive touchscreen.

2023 Volkswagen ID.4

Volkswagen ensures top-tier protection for ID.4 occupants with comprehensive driver assistance tech. Features like the standard Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Assist aid in navigation, while Active Blind Spot Monitoring and Rear Traffic Alert help prevent risky maneuvers. Front Assist works to avoid low-speed collisions through automatic emergency braking. This collection of intelligent attributes no doubt contributes to the ID.4 deserving consideration as one of the safest and most secure compact electric SUVs currently on the market.

Rapid Acceleration Despite Its Size

With 201 hp and a respectable 229 lb-ft of torque available instantly, the ID.4 accelerates smoothly from a standstill and performs admirably when merging onto busy roads or highways. This makes for stress-free city and suburban driving.

Generous Electric Range For Peace of Mind

An EPA-estimated range of up to 260 miles allows long trips between charges, freeing drivers from “range anxiety” and making the ID.4 very practical as either a daily commuter or family vehicle.

2024 Hyundai Tucson

The 2024 Hyundai Tucson has many advanced driver assistance features to help keep occupants safest on the road. Features like Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist use radar and cameras to monitor traffic and can automatically push the brakes if it senses that a collision with a vehicle or pedestrian in front is imminent. Blind-spot collision-avoidance Assist, Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist, and Driver Attention Warning also use radar sensors to help avoid collisions from other vehicles that may be hidden from the driver’s view. Additional features incorporate Lane Keeping Assist and Lane Following Assist to help guide the vehicle and prevent it from unintentionally drifting out of its lane. With many sophisticated technologies, the Tucson aims to be one of the safest options for smaller crossover SUVs

2024 Jeep Cherokee

The 2024 Jeep Cherokee contains many advanced technologies to help keep passengers safe. Features like Forward Collision Warning can automatically engage the brakes if the driver doesn’t respond to a potential collision detected ahead by the vehicle’s sensors. Adaptive Cruise Control, along with Stop and Go, helps ease driving on busy roads by maintaining distance from vehicles ahead. Additionally, the Active Lane Management System can alert the driver and even correct the vehicle back into its lane if an unintentional lane drift is detected, helping avoid collisions. These and other driver-assist systems aim to make the Cherokee one of the safest compact SUV options available.

2024 Honda CR-V

The 2024 Honda CR-V contains many standard safety technologies to help protect occupants. A collision mitigation braking system can automatically engage the brakes if an imminent frontal collision is detected. A lane departure warning tells the driver if an unintentional lane drift occurs. Additionally, features like traffic sign recognition, blind spot information, and rear cross-traffic monitoring use sensors and cameras to help avoid collisions. The CR-V aims to offer occupants comprehensive protection with some of its class’s most inclusive standard safety features.

2024 Kia Sportage

The 2024 Kia Sportage contains numerous standard safety features to help protect all passengers. Features like Forward Collision Avoidance apply automatic braking if sensors detect an imminent frontal collision. Lane Departure Warning monitors the vehicle’s position and alerts the driver of unintentional lane drift. Extensive airbag coverage and electronic handling technologies also aim to prevent accidents. With these sophisticated technologies, the Sportage endeavors to be one of the safest compact SUV choices for families.

8 Safest Midsize SUVs

2023 Kia Telluride

The 2023 Kia Telluride features an array of advanced driver-assistance systems to help keep passengers safest on the road. It comes equipped with blind spot monitoring, lane keep assist, rear cross-traffic alert, driver attention alert, pre-collision system, and downhill brake control from the factory.

Additional safety features incorporate dual front and dual side airbags, front and rear side head airbags, lower anchors, and tethers for children and security systems. Kia prioritized safety in designing the Telluride, filling it with technology to aid drivers and protect passengers from all angles.

Cutting-Edge Technology

The 2023 Kia Telluride provides families with a safe, user-friendly environment to travel in. With its powerful V6, three-row seating, and a suite of driver-assistance systems, it establishes itself as one of the safest midsize SUVs in its class.

2024 Ford Explorer

The 2024 Ford Explorer has many safety features, making it one of the safest midsize SUVs. Some notable safety technologies included are Auto High-Beam Headlamps, Rear View Camera, BLIS, Pre-Collision Assist, and Lane-Keeping System. The Explorer also comes with Adaptive Cruise Control, which uses radar and camera technology to automatically slow your vehicle’s speed to maintain a preset distance from the car in front of you. Post-collision braking and Rear Parking Sensors provide additional protection and convenience when navigating tight spaces.

Connected Technology

The Ford+Alexa App seamlessly integrates the capabilities of Amazon Alexa into Explorer through SYNC 3 AppLink. Using voice commands, drivers can get directions and traffic updates, control smart home devices, and access Amazon Prime services while on the road. SYNC 3 also includes a three-month trial of SiriusXM.

Advanced Convenience Features

A wireless charging pad atop the center console allows devices to charge without cables. An available 980-watt B&O Sound System provides premium audio with 14 high-quality speakers. Active Park Assist 2.0 makes parallel and perpendicular parking easy using ultrasonic sensors.

2024 Volvo XC60

Volvo is committed to developing intelligent safety features that help protect all people inside and around the vehicle. Some noteworthy technologies in the 2024 XC60 include lidar, a driver understanding system, occupant sensing, blind spot monitoring, and a surround-view camera. Volvo also constantly improves safety features through over-the-air software updates as the company works towards its vision of zero collisions.

Collision Avoidance Systems

Intelligent systems help avoid or mitigate collisions with intelligent warnings and automatic braking if needed. Lane-keeping aid and run-off road mitigation help keep the vehicle centered in its travel path.

Driver Assistance Features

Cross-traffic alert with automatic braking covers the rear of the vehicle. BLIS monitors blind spots and can steer the vehicle back if an encroaching vehicle is sensed. A speed governor caps all new Volvos at 180 kph for safety.

Connected Safety Network

If another Volvo detects hazards, the XC60 is alerted to conditions ahead via the driver display or optional heads-up display.

2024 Subaru Ascent

The 2024 Subaru Ascent includes Subaru’s EyeSight driver assist technology as standard. This system functions similarly to another set of attentive eyes on the road and can apply automatic braking if needed. Available technologies, such as Automatic Emergency Steering, help avoid collisions before they occur. Other important standard safety attributes incorporate seven airbags and adjustable head restraints.

Advanced Driver Aids

EyeSight offers pre-collision braking and adaptive cruise control. Automatic Emergency Steering has the potential to actively steer the vehicle to dodge crashes if space permits.

Connected Safety Features

STARLINK provides notifications in the instance of an accident alongside remote services controlled by a smartphone for extra reassurance when driving.

Driver Assistance Systems

Selectable technologies like blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert increase understanding of the vehicle’s surroundings.

2024 Genesis GV80

Genesis is committed to developing advanced safety technologies for the GV80. Features include forward collision avoidance, blind spot monitoring, and a surround-view camera. Ten total airbags provide comprehensive protection. The goal is to safeguard occupants through preventative systems and diligent engineering.

Collision Prevention Systems

If needed, FCA detects vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists ahead with warnings and autonomous braking. BCA alerts and assists with braking for lane change risks.

Driver Assistance Aids

FAW monitors for driver fatigue or distraction using interior cameras. HDA2 provides lane centering and adaptive cruise control up to highway speeds.

Parking Assistance Technologies

PCA-R applies braking to help avoid collisions while reversing. The surround-view camera system enhances visibility around the vehicle when parking.

2023-24 Toyota Highlander

The Highlander focuses greatly on incorporating innovative safety gear. Notable highlights involve pre-collision braking for vehicles and pedestrians, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and parking sensors with automatic braking. A comprehensive warranty and roadside aid program further enhance ownership assurance.

Collision Avoidance Systems

PCS can detect and warn of collisions ahead while applying brakes autonomously if needed. DRCC maintains distance using radar with traffic-aware cruise control.

Driving Assistance Features

LDA alerts on unintentional lane drifting and applies steering to help keep in the lane. RSA reads and displays speed limit signs on the display.

Parking Technologies

Front and rear sensors provide visibility around the Highlander while parking. Automatic braking activates to avoid collisions during low-speed maneuvering if objects are near.

2023 Lincoln Nautilus SUV

Lincoln prioritizes incorporating an array of intelligent preventative technologies into the Nautilus for maximizing protection. Features involve pre-collision braking, rear cameras, and various airbags throughout. The safest attributes, together with the luxury Lincoln experience, offer reassurance for drivers and passengers alike.

Collision Prevention Systems

Pre-Collision Assist monitors for frontal crashes and applies autonomous braking if needed to avert collisions.

driver Assistance Features

Rear cameras provide visibility to the rear for safer backing. Tire sealant and inflator kits enable mobility in emergency flat situations.

Passenger Safety Components

An extensive arrangement of airbags and safety belts throughout provides comprehensive crash protection for all occupants.

2023 Mazda CX-9

Mazda incorporates its i-Activsense package as standard to offer sophisticated driver assistance and collision avoidance technologies. Features involve smart braking support, adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assistance for maximizing safety awareness.

Collision Prevention Systems

SCBS-F utilizes sensors and automatic braking to help avoid frontal crashes with vehicles ahead.

Driver Assistance Features

MRCC adaptive cruise control maintains safe distances while stopping fully in traffic when needed. LDW alerts on unintended lane drifts.

Vehicle Surroundings Monitoring

BSM and RCTA use radar sensors to detect vehicles that may be unseen in the CX-9’s blind spots or approaching from the sides.

8 Safest Large SUVs

2024 Ford Expedition/Max

The 2024 Ford Expedition comes equipped with many important safety features to help keep passengers safe on the road. Available technologies include blind spot monitoring, front/rear parking sensors, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, lane centering assist, a 360-degree camera with trailer guidance, and automatic emergency braking. The safest driving experience is further enhanced with optional hands-free driving assistance from BlueCruise.

Engine

Powering the large Expedition is a 3.5-liter V6 gasoline engine producing 400 horsepower at 5,000 rpm and 480 pound-feet of torque at 2,250 rpm. This engine utilizes double overhead cams, variable valve timing, and direct fuel injection for optimal performance and efficiency.

Towing & Hauling

With a max towing capacity of 9,000 pounds, the Expedition is well-suited for hauling boats, trailers, or other heavy loads. Four-wheel drive is standard to provide better traction in various weather and road conditions. An electronic single-speed transfer case and descent control help maintain control and stability over challenging terrain.

Drivetrain

A 10-speed automatic transmission manages power delivery from the potent V6 engine to the four wheels. This wide gear ratio spread allows for accelerated acceleration or relaxed highway cruising as needed. The electronic single-speed transfer case constantly monitors traction and seamlessly distributes torque for dependable performance in any driving scenario.

Suspension

The Expedition’s independent front and rear suspension utilizes stabilizer bars at both ends to promote precise handing. This arrangement absorbs bumps comfortably while still delivering engaging and controlled steering feedback for the driver.

Technology & Infotainment

Passengers can stay constantly connected using the high-tech features in the Expedition. The standard SYNC 4 infotainment system enables seamless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration through its sizable 12-inch or 15.5-inch touchscreen. Wireless device charging and an available Wi-Fi hotspot allow passengers to be continuously linked. Dual rear entertainment displays further promote occupant satisfaction on lengthy rides.

Audi Q7 4-door SUV

The Audi Q7 comes fully equipped with many standard safety systems to help protect passengers. Traction control, stability control, anti-lock brakes, brake assist, and pressure distribution all work to maintain control in hazardous situations. Additional features like tire monitoring and anti-theft functions provide further peace of mind.

Engine

A 2.0-liter inline-4 gas engine paired with mild hybrid electric assist delivers 261 horsepower. Its 16 valves are opened and closed by dual overhead cams, while variable valve timing optimizes power and efficiency. Direct injection further enhances performance and economy from this powerful yet efficient powertrain.

Towing & Hauling

With a max towing limit of 4,400 pounds and a payload capacity of up to 1,367 pounds, the Q7 can handle hauling needs competently. Its standard limited-slip differential aids traction when towing or carrying large loads on various surfaces.

Drivetrain

An 8-speed auto transmission with a full-time all-wheel drive configuration gives the Audi Q7 impressive traction and control whether carrying cargo or passengers. The system engages swiftly and seamlessly to promote vehicle stability and safety in all driving scenarios.

Suspension

Independent struts at all four corners team with anti-roll bars front and rear to deliver a plush yet well-controlled ride. This setup filters out bumps and impacts very well while keeping the large Q7 agile.

2023 Toyota Sequoia

Safety Features

The 2023 Toyota Sequoia comes equipped with the Toyota Safety Sense 2.5 suite as standard. This includes many advanced driver assistance features like auto emergency braking paired with pedestrian and cyclist detection, emergency steering assistance, adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, blind spot monitoring, a 360-degree camera, and lane departure alert with steering assist. Additionally, the Toyota Star Safety System provides technologies such as traction control, vehicle stability control, anti-lock brakes, electronic brake force distribution, brake assist, smart stop technology, and hill start assist to help maintain stability and control in various driving scenarios. Through its diverse array of active and passive safety systems, the Sequoia aims to safeguard occupants with multi-faceted protection on the road.

2024 GMC Yukon/XL

The 2024 GMC Yukon has many innovative safety systems to help make it one of the safest large SUVs on the road. All Yukon trims come equipped with StabiliTrak electronic stability control, traction control, four-wheel antilock disc brakes, front seat side-impact airbags, full-length side-impact curtain airbags, and OnStar emergency services. Additionally, the Yukon offers advanced driver assistance features like Forward Collision Alert, Lane Keep Assist, automatic emergency braking, blind zone monitoring, and more depending on trim level. These technologies utilize sensors, cameras, and radar to help monitor surrounding traffic and alert the driver to potential hazards. The GMC Yukon aims to provide passengers with robust protection through its comprehensive suite of passive and active safety systems.

2024 Chevrolet Suburban

Safety Features

The Suburban comes well-equipped with standard safety technologies through the Chevy Safety Assist system. Forward Collision Alert utilizes front radar and camera sensors to monitor traffic ahead and warn the driver of an imminent collision risk, while Automatic Emergency Braking can automatically initiate the brakes if the driver does not respond to collision alerts. Lane Keep Assist utilizes a camera to read lane lines and send vibration pulses through the steering wheel in case the vehicle drifts out of its lane without a turn signal activated. Additional active safety features include Front Pedestrian Braking, which uses the automatic emergency braking system to detect and slow for pedestrians, as well as a Following Distance Indicator. Passive safety features include 10 standard airbags, front seat-mounted side-impact airbags, and full-length side-impact curtain airbags. OnStar emergency services are also included, providing drivers 24/7 access to trained specialists who can send emergency aid. These safety layers are designed to holistically safeguard passengers through active collision prevention tools, passive cabin protection structures, and connection to emergency responders when needed.

2023-24 Rivian R1S 4-door SUV

Safety Features

The R1S aims to provide drivers with robust protection through active and passive safety systems. Standard is Rivian’s Driver+ suite, which controls steering, braking, and acceleration under certain conditions. It also offers adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, and more. Both IIHS and NHTSA have recognized the R1S’ exemplary crashworthiness, earning it the highest awards from IIHS. However, NHTSA is investigating pedestrian alert sounds given EVs’ lower noise levels. Overall, Rivian engineers integrated various technologies and collision prevention tools coupled with a rigid structure to help safeguard occupants inside the vehicle and beyond.

2024 Nissan Armada

Safety Features

The 2024 Nissan Armada aims to be one of the safest large SUVs with innovative airbag technology and structure. Standard is Nissan’s Advanced Airbag System with dual front, side impact, and curtain airbags. The “Zone Body” features crumple zones to absorb impact in a collision and transfer energy away from the passenger cabin. Additional measures like hood safety stops, a collapsible steering column, and high-strength door beams are designed to protect occupants in various scenarios. With these thorough passive safety systems paired with standard features like tire pressure monitoring and security tech, Nissan engineers have created robust protection for Armada drivers and passengers inside and outside the vehicle.

2023 Jeep Wagoneer

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

The 2023 Jeep Wagoneer aims to keep drivers and passengers safe with innovative technology. Standard safety features include an advanced driver-assistance system with active safety technologies like forward collision warning and emergency braking. Additionally, the Wagoneer offers optional packages providing services such as in-vehicle emergency response, vehicle location if stolen, monthly vehicle reports, and remote software updates. These tools allow for 360-degree monitoring of the vehicle’s health and location and provide additional layers of security. Jeep engineered the Wagoneer with safety and assistance in mind through both standard and available driver-assistance features.

Easy Auto Ship Can Safely Transport Your SUVs From Dealership To You

By now, we hope this guide has helped you pick out the perfect, safest SUV for your crew. But getting it home is half the battle - you want it delivered in one piece, right? That’s where Easy Auto Ship comes in. We’ve been moving cars from Point A to B for dealers and customers for years. Whether your new SUV is down the street or across the states, we’ve got you covered with our pro drivers.

Our haulers go through crazy, thorough background and driving record checks, so you know Fido is in good hands. Every ride gets secured inside our enclosed trailers to keep it safe from weather or road risks. Tools like GPS also let dealers and owners track their car’s trips. Most importantly, we’ve delivered thousands of vehicles with zero accidents thanks to our drivers’ skills. So you can relax knowing we’ll get your new SUV to your driveway with no problem.

Safety is a priority numero uno for us over rushing. Reach out today to schedule hassle-free, insured transportation. Our customer service team is standing by to help with all your shipping needs.