2025 car models with some of the highest safety rankings
As crash-testing protocols grow more demanding, particularly for rear-seat occupants, specific 2025 models stand out with exceptional safety performance. According to Yahoo Autos, “To earn a Top Safety Pick+, a vehicle must score Good in all crashworthiness categories, have at least Acceptable or Good headlights across all trims, and demonstrate Advanced or Superior pedestrian crash prevention for both day and night.” For buyers, selecting vehicles with top safety rankings reduces risk, influences insurance costs, improves resale value, and provides peace of mind. This article highlights several 2025 models that have earned elite safety awards, explains the rigorous tests they passed, and shows buyers what to look for.
Understanding how safety rankings work
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety awards Top Safety Pick and Top Safety Pick+ designations to vehicles excelling in crashworthiness tests, including moderate overlap front tests, small overlap front tests, and side impact tests. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration uses a five-star rating system covering frontal, side, and rollover scenarios. For 2025, the IIHS updated its protocols to include a rear-seat dummy in the moderate overlap front test, thereby raising the standards for second-row occupant protection. Top rankings mean vehicles demonstrate excellent crash test scores, effective crash-avoidance technology, superior headlight performance, and robust structural integrity.
Selected 2025 models that earned top safety rankings
The 2025 Honda Accord earned IIHS Top Safety Pick+ status, thanks to its strong crash test performance and a standard Honda Sensing suite, which includes forward collision mitigation and lane keeping assist. For midsize sedan buyers, the Accord offers exceptional safety credentials. The Hyundai Ioniq 5 received a TSP+ rating despite electric vehicles facing new structural and battery safety challenges, proving EVs can achieve top safety marks. The Kia Telluride earned a TSP+ rating as a large family SUV, featuring pedestrian and cyclist detection systems. The Mazda3 sedan and hatchback both achieved TSP+ in the compact segment, offering above-average safety credentials at budget-conscious price points. The Audi Q6 e-tron received TSP+ as a premium EV combining luxury with advanced safety features.
Why these models are doing so well in safety
Many top performers feature recent redesigns or next-generation platforms incorporating the latest crash-test criteria for rear-seat occupant protection and pedestrian detection. Advanced driver-assistance systems, including automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring, have become standard or widely available. Hyundai specifically earned five TSP+ awards for models including the Ioniq 5, Ioniq 6, Kona, Tucson, and Santa Fe. Across the broader Hyundai Motor Group, 15 models earned recognition, demonstrating the manufacturer’s commitment to safety leadership. Consumer demand and regulatory pressures are pushing brands to incorporate safety performance into more model lines, rather than reserving it for premium segments.
What this means for buyers and how to use this information
Check whether vehicles earned IIHS Top Safety Pick or Top Safety Pick+ awards when shopping for 2025 models. Many vehicles across various price ranges achieved top marks, from compact to large SUVs to EVs. Pay attention to specific trims, as safety ratings may depend on options such as headlight performance and driver-assistance packages. Good safety ratings can reduce insurance costs and improve a vehicle’s resale value. However, reliability, total cost of ownership, and other features also matter, as safety represents just one factor. For slightly older model years, check whether the model shares the same structural platform and whether safety awards are available for that specific year.
In 2025, numerous car models across various segments achieved top safety rankings, demonstrating that high safety standards are increasingly accessible. Models like the Honda Accord, Hyundai Ioniq 5, Kia Telluride, Mazda3, and Audi Q6 e-tron stand out to buyers who prioritize occupant protection. Shoppers should prioritize TSP+ status vehicles, verify trim options, and align choices with budget and needs. Safety encompasses more than avoiding crashes; it involves protecting occupants, using advanced technologies, and selecting vehicles built to stricter standards.
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