For those prioritizing safety in their next vehicle purchase, MotorVibez’s article on the “Top 10 Safest SUVs 2024” is an essential read. It meticulously evaluates a range of SUVs based on safety features, crash test scores, and innovative technologies designed to protect passengers. From luxury models offering a blend of style and security to family-friendly vehicles with top safety accolades, this comprehensive guide ensures you can choose a reliable SUV for peace of mind on the road.
Top 10 Safest Suvs 2024
#1 2025 Genesis GV80 – $59 000
The most safe SUV 2024, the Genesis GV80, turns heads even when it’s just sitting there. Its striking design and elegant presence have earned it numerous accolades, including a spot on the prestigious 10Best list. This SUV seamlessly combines style and substance, making it a standout in the luxury market.
Luxury That Won’t Break the Bank
What sets the GV80 apart from high-end competitors like Porsche and BMW? Its surprisingly attractive starting price. Here, you get luxury without the hefty price tag, a rare find in this segment.
Choose Your Power
Under the hood, the GV80 offers two compelling options. The standard is a robust 2.5-liter, 304-hp turbocharged four-cylinder engine, available exclusively with two rows of seats. For those craving more power and space, the 380-hp twin-turbo V-6 is the way to go. This option not only packs a punch but also allows for a third row, accommodating up to seven passengers.
All-Wheel Drive Across the Board
No matter which engine you choose, all GV80 models feature an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. This ensures a smooth and reliable ride under any conditions.
Plush and Peaceful Interior
Inside, the GV80 epitomizes luxury. With heated-and-cooled seats for both front and rear passengers, plus heated armrests, comfort is paramount. The ride remains exceptionally quiet even at highway speeds, making every journey a serene experience.
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#2 2024 Acura MDX – A Beacon of Safety in the Luxury SUV Class
As a standout in the category of safe compact SUV 2024, the Acura MDX follows in the successful tire tracks of its predecessor, clinching the prestigious 2024 IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award. This accolade underscores its commitment to keeping you and your loved ones safe on the road.
How It Scored
In the rigorous testing regime, the MDX impressed with a Good score in the updated side test and an Acceptable score in the moderate overlap front test. When it came to ensuring child seats could be easily and securely attached, the MDX earned top marks for its LATCH system.
Areas for Improvement
However, it wasn’t all perfect. The MDX faced criticism for its seat belt reminders, which were deemed too slow to engage and not loud or long enough, leading to a Poor rating in this area.
NHTSA’s Seal of Approval
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded the front-wheel-drive (FWD) versions of the MDX its highest honor, a five-star overall safety rating. While all-wheel-drive (AWD) models weren’t given an overall or rollover resistance grade, they, along with their FWD counterparts, excelled in side impact tests with a five-star rating.
Safety Features Galore
The MDX is equipped with an array of standard active safety features designed to protect and assist. These include automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, a blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert, automatic high-beams, traffic sign recognition, and lane-keeping assistance.
Enhanced Safety with the Technology Package
Opting for the Technology package further enhances safety with the addition of low-speed braking control, parking sensors, and rain-sensing automatic windshield wipers.
Room for Improvement in Lane Centering
While most of the MDX’s safety systems perform admirably, the lane centering feature has room for improvement, having presented some challenges during use.
Also Check: Best Suvs 2024 Under 40K
#3 2024 Ford Explorer – Securing Top Safety Honors Despite Minor Hiccups
Despite facing challenges in the seat belt reminder test, the Ford Explorer stands tall with the prestigious 2024 Top Safety Pick+ award from the institute. This recognition underscores the Explorer’s commitment to safety, highlighting its solid performance across various safety evaluations.
NHTSA’s Seal of Approval
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has also lauded the Explorer, awarding it the highest possible overall safety rating of five stars. This rating is bolstered by excellent performance in both front and side impact tests, further cementing the Explorer’s status as a safe choice for families.
Safety Features Across Grades
The Explorer’s dedication to safety is evident in its wide range of active safety features. While offerings may vary by grade, notable features include automatic high-beams and rear parking sensors. A standout aspect of its safety suite is Ford’s Co-Pilot360 technology.
Ford’s Co-Pilot360: A Closer Look
Co-Pilot360 enhances the driving experience with several key safety features:
- A blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert helps drivers navigate crowded parking lots and highways with added confidence.
- Lane keeping assistance ensures the vehicle stays safely within its lane, reducing the risk of accidental lane departures.
- Automatic emergency braking can prevent or mitigate collisions by automatically applying the brakes if an imminent collision is detected.
Adaptive Cruise Control: Room for Refinement
The Explorer’s adaptive cruise control, while a valuable feature for maintaining safe distances on the highway, has received some criticism. In certain instances, it may decelerate too suddenly in response to changes in the posted speed limit, a behavior that can be surprising to drivers and passengers alike.
#4 Safest compact suvs 2024: Genesis GV80(2024) – Setting the Bar High for SUV Safety
The 2024 Genesis GV80 has been recognized as one of the safest SUVs on the market, securing the prestigious IIHS 2024 Top Safety Pick+ award. However, it’s important to note that this accolade applies specifically to models manufactured after August 2023. Reflecting on its predecessor, the 2023 model also held the Top Safety Pick+ title, though it was assessed under slightly older standards.
NHTSA’s High Ratings
The Genesis GV80’s commitment to safety is further validated by its NHTSA ratings. This luxury midsize SUV boasts an overall five-star safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. It shines with five stars in side impact crash testing and has also performed commendably with four stars in both the front crash test and rollover evaluation.
No Compromise on Safety Features
Genesis ensures that safety is not an optional extra in the GV80. Each model is equipped with a comprehensive suite of standard safety technologies designed to protect and assist the driver:
- Automatic Emergency Braking: Acts quickly to prevent collisions or reduce their severity by automatically applying the brakes if an imminent impact is detected.
- Lane Keeping: Helps keep the vehicle centered in its lane, reducing the risk of drifting.
- Blind-Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert: Increases awareness of vehicles in the blind spot or approaching from the side when reversing.
- Adaptive Cruise Control: Maintains a set distance from the car ahead, adjusting speed automatically to keep pace with changing traffic conditions.
- Automatic High-Beams: Adjusts headlight brightness for improved visibility, reverting to low beams when detecting oncoming traffic to avoid dazzling other drivers.
- Driver Focus Monitor: Keeps an eye on the driver’s attention and can alert if signs of distraction or fatigue are detected.
- Highway Driving Assist with Lane Centering: Enhances cruising comfort and safety by assisting with steering, throttle, and braking on highways, while keeping the vehicle centered in its lane.
#5 2024 Mazda CX-30 – Where Safety Meets Sporty Elegance
The Mazda CX-30 has not only aced the IIHS safety tests but has also distinguished itself with top marks in the LATCH ease of use evaluation, highlighting the SUV’s commitment to protecting its youngest passengers. This achievement has earned it the coveted 2024 Top Safety Pick+ award. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) complements this recognition with a five-star overall rating, underscoring the CX-30’s status as a leader in vehicle safety.
Packed with Standard Safety Tech
Mazda doesn’t skimp on safety features for the CX-30. Standard across all models, you’ll find:
- Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection: Provides an essential layer of protection for both occupants and pedestrians.
- Adaptive Cruise Control: Maintains a set distance from the car ahead, making adjustments as necessary for smooth, worry-free driving.
- Lane Keeping: Ensures the vehicle stays within its lane boundaries, reducing the risk of unintended lane departures.
- Driver Focus Monitor: Monitors the driver’s attention levels and provides alerts if signs of fatigue or distraction are detected.
- Blind-Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert: Enhances awareness of the surrounding area, making lane changes and reversing safer.
- Rain-Sensing Windshield Wipers and Automatic High Beam-Equipped Headlights: Adjust automatically to changing weather and lighting conditions for improved visibility and safety.
For those seeking additional safety and convenience features, higher trims offer a 360-degree camera and front and rear parking sensors, further enhancing the CX-30’s safety profile.
Driving Pleasure Guaranteed
The 2024 Mazda CX-30 isn’t just about safety; it’s a joy to drive. Its foundation on the Mazda 3 compact car lends it exceptional athleticism and a premium cabin experience that stands out in its class. While the base 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine offers adequate power, the turbocharged 250-hp option brings exhilarating performance for those craving more speed. All-wheel drive comes standard, ensuring reliable traction across various conditions, paired with a smooth six-speed automatic transmission.
Luxury Within Reach
Opting for higher-end trims elevates the CX-30 to near-luxury levels of interior quality, positioning it as a compelling alternative to more expensive models from premium brands like Audi and BMW. This blend of luxury, performance, and safety at a competitive price point secures the CX-30’s spot on our 2024 Editors’ Choice list, making it a top pick for drivers who value both excitement and security.
Also read: Top Towing Suvs 2024
#6 2024 Nissan Pathfinder – A Safety Leader with Practical Family Appeal
The 2024 Nissan Pathfinder has once again secured the prestigious IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award, reinforcing its position as a leader in vehicle safety. It’s worth noting, however, that this commendation applies exclusively to models constructed after November 2023, echoing its previous year’s achievement. In terms of federal evaluations, the Pathfinder impresses across the board with a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA for both its FWD and AWD models—a notable improvement from last year when only the AWD model clinched the top rating.
Loaded with Standard Safety Features
Nissan ensures that every 2024 Pathfinder comes well-equipped with essential safety technologies, including:
- Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection: Enhances protection for both passengers and pedestrians.
- Rear Automatic Braking: Aids in preventing collisions during reverse maneuvers.
- Lane Keeping: Helps maintain the vehicle’s position within lane boundaries.
- Automatic Headlights: Adjust lighting based on environmental conditions.
- Rear Parking Sensors and Blind-Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert: Increase awareness and safety when parking or changing lanes.
For those opting for higher trim levels, the Pathfinder adds:
- Adaptive Cruise Control: For a more relaxed driving experience on highways.
- Front Parking Sensors and a 360-degree Camera: Providing comprehensive visibility and assistance in tight spots.
Family-Friendly, with Caveats on Adventure
The 2024 Pathfinder excels as a family transporter, offering a blend of practicality and comfort. While its design suggests a readiness for rugged adventures, its capabilities are more suited to on-road excursions than challenging off-road trails—even the Rock Creek Edition doesn’t significantly enhance its trail-tackling prowess. Under the hood, the smooth V-6 engine delivers sufficient power for daily duties, complemented by a suspension tuned for comfort and a quiet, spacious cabin. With a towing capacity that tops some of its key rivals, the Pathfinder stands out for families with trailers or boats.
Evaluating Value and Competitors
When considering the value proposition, the Pathfinder offers a lot but might not be the best in its class. For those prioritizing driving dynamics or off-road capability, there are other mid-size SUVs that may better meet those specific needs. Nonetheless, for buyers seeking a safe, comfortable, and capable family vehicle, the 2024 Nissan Pathfinder remains a solid choice, even if it’s advisable to compare it against its peers for the best fit.
#7 2024 Subaru Ascent – A Safe Family SUV in a Competitive Field
The Subaru Ascent has solidified its reputation for safety with a 2024 Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS, despite receiving an Acceptable rating in the front impact moderate overlap test—a minor hiccup in an otherwise stellar safety profile. Additionally, it’s celebrated a NHTSA five-star overall safety rating, excelling with five stars in both front and side impact tests, though it noted a four-star rating in rollover resistance.
Packed with Standard Safety
Every 2024 Ascent model comes equipped with an impressive array of safety features:
- Adaptive Cruise Control: Maintains a set distance from the car ahead, adjusting speed as necessary.
- Automatic Emergency Braking: Acts quickly to prevent collisions or mitigate their severity.
- Lane Keeping: Helps keep the vehicle centered in its lane, reducing the risk of drifting.
- Automatic High-Beams: Adjust headlight brightness automatically, improving visibility without dazzling other drivers.
The Premium trim adds even more safety features, including:
- Blind-Spot and Rear Cross-Traffic Monitoring: Increases awareness of vehicles in the driver’s blind spot or approaching from behind when reversing.
- Reverse Automatic Emergency Braking: Provides added protection when backing up.
- Automatic Emergency Steering: Offers additional steering support in critical situations to avoid collisions.
The Ascent’s Place Among Rivals
The Ascent competes in the fiercely contested midsize three-row crossover segment, alongside notable models like the Kia Telluride, Hyundai Palisade, Ford Explorer, and the Mazda CX-90. It distinguishes itself with standard all-wheel drive, seating for up to eight passengers, and a comprehensive suite of safety and driver assistance features.
Under the hood, the Ascent is powered by a 260-hp turbocharged flat-four engine coupled with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT), achieving a commendable 28 mpg in highway fuel economy testing. However, its performance is marred by a lackluster response during acceleration and limited passing power, combined with a cramped third-row seating, which might challenge its standing against its competitors.
#8 2024 Tesla Model Y – A Mixed Bag of Top Safety and Practical Concerns
Tesla’s Model Y has clinched not just one, but two of IIHS’ highest awards, showcasing the brand’s commitment to vehicle safety. The dual-motor AWD variant has been awarded the 2024 Top Safety Pick, while its single-motor RWD counterpart goes a step further with the Top Safety Pick+. These accolades are complemented by a suite of five-star ratings from NHTSA, covering overall performance and individual test categories, solidifying the Model Y’s status as a leader in safety among luxury compact SUVs.
Autopilot and Beyond
At the heart of every Model Y is Tesla’s renowned Autopilot technology, a comprehensive active safety suite that includes:
- Lane Keeping
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Automatic Emergency Braking
- Blind-Spot Monitoring
For those seeking even more autonomy, Enhanced Autopilot introduces features like autonomous parking assist and automatic lane changing assist. Additionally, the Full Self-Driving Beta option promises hands-free operation, though its real-world performance may vary from expectations.
Trading Dynamics for Space
Transitioning from the Model 3 platform, the 2024 Model Y sacrifices some of the sedan’s engaging road manners for a higher ride height and more spacious interior. This shift results in handling that’s perceived as less agile, especially noticeable during cornering. However, the trade-off includes a roomier cabin and a larger cargo area, making the Model Y a practical option for families and those requiring more space for their activities.
Range and Technology at the Fore
One of the Model Y’s strongest selling points is its driving range, which is among the best in the electric vehicle class. The Long Range model boasts an impressive 330-mile maximum estimate, outpacing rivals like the Ford Mustang Mach-E and Volkswagen ID.4.
The cabin’s focal point is a large touchscreen that houses the infotainment system, speedometer, and navigation display. While this centralized control system contributes to the Model Y’s futuristic interior, it also means that adjustments for mirrors, steering column, and other secondary controls require navigating through the touchscreen—a design choice that may not appeal to everyone.
Quality Concerns
Despite its strengths, the Model Y has faced criticism for its fit and finish, which falls below the standards set by competitors such as Hyundai and Nissan. This aspect, combined with the inconvenient control scheme, suggests there’s room for improvement in making the Model Y as refined as it is technologically advanced.
#9 2024 Honda HR-V – : Safety Excellence Meets Practicality with Room for Improvement
The Honda HR-V shines in the realm of safety, earning the prestigious IIHS 2024 Top Safety Pick+ designation, a testament to its robust design and safety features. Its FWD variant also boasts a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA, underlining its commitment to occupant protection. While AWD models haven’t received an overall rating, they impress with five stars in front and side impact tests, ensuring peace of mind for drivers and passengers alike.
Packed with Honda Sensing Safety Tech
Honda ensures every HR-V is well-equipped with its Honda Sensing suite, an advanced collection of active safety technologies designed to support and protect. This includes:
- Automatic Emergency Braking: Prepares for unexpected stops by automatically applying brakes to prevent collisions.
- Lane Keeping: Assists in maintaining lane position, reducing the risk of unintentional lane departure.
- Adaptive Cruise Control: Adjusts speed to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead, enhancing comfort on long drives.
- Traffic Sign Recognition: Keeps you informed of the latest speed limits and road signs.
- Automatic High-Beams: Adjusts headlight brightness for optimal visibility without dazzling other drivers.
Higher trims enhance safety further with a blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert and parking sensors, adding layers of convenience and protection.
Driving Dynamics and Powertrain: A Mixed Bag
Borrowing chassis components from the Civic, the HR-V inherits nimble road manners, making it a spirited companion on the road. However, its 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine leaves something to be desired, particularly when paired with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT), which dilutes the driving experience.
Future Prospects: A Hybrid Hope
There’s anticipation for Honda to introduce a hybrid variant of the HR-V, potentially leveraging the Accord hybrid’s powertrain for a more compelling performance profile. Such a move would position the HR-V as a stronger rival to the Toyota Corolla Cross, adding efficiency and power to its list of attributes.
#10 2024 BMW X3 – The Balanced Choice in Compact Luxury Crossovers
The BMW X3 might not grab headlines for groundbreaking features, but it nails the fundamentals, making it a solid choice in the compact luxury crossover segment. It offers a well-constructed cabin, up-to-date technology, and cargo space that’s among the best in its class. While the base 2.0-liter turbo-four engine won’t set your heart racing with speed, it’s competent for daily duties. The interior, although high-quality, could benefit from some additional flair to match its premium badge.
Is the Luxury Crossover the New Sports Sedan?
The 2024 BMW X3 makes a compelling case that compact luxury crossovers can be as thrilling as the classic sports sedan. Leveraging the dynamic pedigree of the 3-series, the X3 marries refined and engaging handling with the practicality of a crossover. This combination of agility and utility has earned it a spot on our 2024 Editors’ Choice list.
Power and Poise
The X3 comes in two flavors when it comes to power. The entry-level models are equipped with a 248-hp turbocharged four-cylinder engine, offering reliable performance for everyday driving. For those craving more excitement, the M40i variant boasts a 382-hp turbo inline-six engine, delivering smoother operation and a noticeable boost in power that’s sure to please driving enthusiasts.
Understated Luxury
In terms of design, the X3 strikes a balance between luxury and restraint. Its exterior is tastefully premium, avoiding the extravagance seen in some competitors. Inside, the orderly cabin and seamlessly integrated technology reflect a focus on functional elegance. While some may seek out the more visually striking interiors of rivals like the Genesis GV70 or Volvo XC60, the X3’s emphasis on driving enjoyment is a strong selling point.
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