The Safest Cars for 2024 (Crash Test Rankings)

When purchasing a new vehicle, safety should always be a top priority. With advancements in automotive engineering, modern cars are equipped with cutting-edge safety features designed to protect occupants in the event of a collision. To help you make an informed decision, we’ve compiled a comprehensive list of the safest cars for 2024 based on rigorous crash test rankings from leading safety organizations, including the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

Understanding Crash Test Ratings

Before diving into the rankings, it’s essential to understand how vehicles are evaluated for safety. The two most trusted crash test agencies are:

• NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) – Rates vehicles on a 5-star scale, assessing frontal, side, and rollover crash performance.
• IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) – Uses a more detailed evaluation system, including crashworthiness, crash avoidance, and headlight performance. A Top Safety Pick+ (TSP+) designation is the highest honor.

A car that earns top marks from both agencies is considered among the safest on the road.

Top Safest Cars of 2024

1. 2024 Volvo XC90 (Luxury SUV)

Safety Ratings: NHTSA 5-Star | IIHS Top Safety Pick+
Volvo has long been synonymous with safety, and the 2024 XC90 continues this legacy. It boasts a reinforced safety cage, advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), and Pilot Assist semi-autonomous driving. Standard features include:

• City Safety with Autobrake (pedestrian/cyclist detection)
• Blind Spot Monitoring with Steering Assist
• Run-off Road Mitigation

2. 2024 Subaru Outback (Midsize SUV)

Safety Ratings: NHTSA 5-Star | IIHS Top Safety Pick+
Subaru’s EyeSight Driver Assist Technology makes the Outback one of the safest family SUVs. Key safety highlights:

• Adaptive Cruise Control with Lane Centering
• Pre-Collision Braking & Throttle Management
• DriverFocus Distraction Mitigation System

3. 2024 Tesla Model Y (Electric SUV)

Safety Ratings: NHTSA 5-Star | IIHS Top Safety Pick
Tesla’s Model Y excels in crash protection due to its rigid battery structure and low center of gravity. Advanced safety tech includes:

• Autopilot with Automatic Emergency Braking
• Side Collision Warning
• Over-the-Air Updates for Continuous Safety Improvements

4. 2024 Toyota Camry (Midsize Sedan)

Safety Ratings: NHTSA 5-Star | IIHS Top Safety Pick
Toyota’s Safety Sense 3.0 suite makes the Camry a leader in sedan safety. Features include:

• Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection
• Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist
• Road Sign Assist

5. 2024 Honda Accord (Midsize Sedan)

Safety Ratings: NHTSA 5-Star | IIHS Top Safety Pick+
Honda’s Honda Sensing® suite ensures the Accord remains a top safety pick. Highlights:

• Collision Mitigation Braking System
• Traffic Jam Assist
• Rear Seatbelt Reminder System

6. 2024 Mazda CX-5 (Compact SUV)

Safety Ratings: NHTSA 5-Star | IIHS Top Safety Pick+
Mazda’s i-Activsense technology provides superior protection. Key features:

• Smart Brake Support with Pedestrian Detection
• Lane-Keep Assist & Lane Departure Warning
• Adaptive Front-Lighting System

7. 2024 Hyundai Palisade (Large SUV)

Safety Ratings: NHTSA 5-Star | IIHS Top Safety Pick
Hyundai’s SmartSense package ensures the Palisade is family-friendly. Includes:

• Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist
• Blind-Spot View Monitor
• Rear Occupant Alert

Emerging Safety Technologies in 2024

Beyond crash test performance, automakers are integrating next-gen safety tech, including:

• Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) Communication – Cars “talk” to infrastructure to prevent accidents.
• Advanced Airbag Systems – Multi-chamber airbags for better impact absorption.
• Night Vision & Infrared Cameras – Enhances visibility in low-light conditions.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the safest car depends on your needs—whether you prioritize family safety, luxury protection, or cutting-edge tech. The 2024 Volvo XC90, Subaru Outback, and Tesla Model Y lead the pack, but even mainstream models like the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord offer exceptional safety.

Before purchasing, always check the latest NHTSA and IIHS ratings and consider test-driving to experience the safety features firsthand. A safe car isn’t just about surviving a crash—it’s about preventing one.

Would you like recommendations based on a specific budget or vehicle type? Let us know in the comments! 🚗💨