Safest Cars in 2024: The Ultimate Guide

In 2024, car safety continues to be a top priority for manufacturers and consumers. With advancements in technology, vehicles are now equipped with cutting-edge features designed to protect drivers, passengers, and pedestrians. From automated emergency braking to advanced driver assistance systems – the safest cars today offer a superior blend of innovation and protection.

In this guide, we’ll explore the safest automobiles, highlighting their standout features and what makes them the ideal choices for safety-conscious drivers.

Understanding Safety Ratings: NCAP, IIHS, and NHTSA

To determine the safest car in the world, it’s essential to consider various safety ratings, which reveal how well a vehicle can protect its occupants in an accident. Organisations like NCAP, IIHS, and NHTSA conduct thorough tests to evaluate these features, giving consumers a reliable benchmark to identify what is the safest car in the world based on trusted data.

NCAP (New Car Assessment Program)

The NCAP has been established in various regions, including Europe (Euro NCAP) and Asia (ASEAN NCAP), which gives it a global reach in terms of assessing cars. This program’s three main parameters features:

• Crash Tests: Such as frontal, side, and pole impact to assess occupant protection.
• Offers a Star Rating System: With 5 stars being the highest level of safety.
• Advanced Tests: These include pedestrian protection and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) in recent years.

IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety)

The IIHS is a non-profit scientific and educational organisation based in the U.S. that shares accessible resources on car safety. This institute specialises in:

• Conducting Crashworthiness Tests: Including small overlap front, moderate overlap front, side impact, roof strength, and head restraints.
• Awarding Vehicles with Titles: Such as, “Top Safety Pick” or “Top Safety Pick+” for models that excel in all safety categories.
• Assesses Safety Features: Including both crash prevention technology and headlight performance.

NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration)

The NHTSA is a U.S. government agency part of the U.S. Department of Transportation and is a great source for determining the top safe car in world contenders. This administration focuses on providing a 5-star safety rating for new vehicles and measures this by:

• Evaluating Crash Performance: Such as frontal crash, side crash, and rollover resistance.
• Incorporating Tests on Newer Safety Technologies: Such as electronic stability control.
• Providing Detailed Data: On recalls and safety investigations for consumers.

The Top 10 Safest Cars in the World

With insight into the world’s top safety rating organizations, you can now explore the top 10 safest car models in 2024. These vehicles feature advanced technologies to help prevent accidents and protect occupants in collisions. Whether you’re looking for cars with driver-assistance systems, top crash test scores, or innovative safety features, this list highlights models designed to provide peace of mind on the road.

Mercedes E-Class

If the luxe life tickles your fancy, explore the2024 Mercedes E-Class – a leader in luxury and safety, combining advanced driver assistance systems with impeccable engineering. It comes equipped with features like Active Brake Assist, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist, all designed to enhance driver awareness and prevent collisions. The E-Class also excels in crash tests, providing top-notch protection for both driver and passengers, making it rank as the safest car on the planet.

VW Tiguan

The 2024 VW Tiguan stands out as a compact SUV that prioritises safety alongside its versatile design. Equipped with features like Front Assist, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control, the Tiguan helps drivers avoid potential hazards on the road. Its strong performance in crash tests and advanced safety systems make it a reliable choice for families and safety-conscious drivers.

Tip: To make your car the smartest SUV on the block, it is recommended to install the Autowatch Ghost 2 Immobiliser for advanced safety and security.

Zeekr X

For those interested in going the electric safest car route, the 2024 Zeekr X is an electric compact SUV that blends cutting-edge technology with a strong focus on safety. It features advanced driver assistance systems like automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning, providing enhanced protection for drivers and passengers. With impressive crash test ratings and innovative safety tech, the Zeekr X is making its mark as a top contender in the EV and safety space.

Audi A6

If you happen to enjoy finer automotive designs, the 2024 Audi A6 delivers a seamless blend of luxury, performance, and safety, making it a standout in the executive sedan category. Equipped with advanced safety features such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and Audi’s Pre Sense technology, the A6 is designed to mitigate potential accidents. Its excellent crash test ratings and robust driver assistance systems ensure top-tier protection for both drivers and passengers.

Skoda Superb

For those shopping with your family in mind, the 2024 Skoda Superb is a spacious and stylish family sedan that excels in safety and practicality. With advanced safety features such as adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and emergency braking, the Superb prioritises driver and passenger protection. Its impressive crash test results and well-designed interior make it an ideal choice for families seeking a world safe car that offers both comfort and a sense of security on the road.

Smart #3

Another great option for the electrically inclined, the 2024 Smart #3 is a compact electric SUV that redefines urban mobility with its emphasis on safety and efficiency. Featuring advanced driver assistance systems such as automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and 360-degree camera views, the Smart #3 ensures a secure driving experience in city environments. With its modern design and strong safety ratings, the Smart #3 is an excellent choice for eco-conscious drivers seeking a reliable and safe urban vehicle.

Subaru Cross Trek

For the adventurous at heart, check out the 2024 Subaru Crosstrek. This versatile compact SUV is designed for both urban driving and outdoor adventures and offers exceptional safety features and rugged capability. With its standard all-wheel drive and advanced safety technologies like EyeSight Driver Assist, including adaptive cruise control and pre-collision braking, the Crosstrek ensures a confident and secure ride. Its impressive safety ratings and durable construction make it an excellent choice for those seeking a reliable safe car in world that can handle a variety of conditions.

Tip: If you ever lose your keys while on your outdoor escapades, look for fast, affordable car keys replacement services.

Ford Explorer

For those who take the little ones on family adventures, the 2024 Ford Explorer is a robust and spacious electric SUV that excels in safety, making it a top choice for families and adventurers. It comes equipped with a suite of advanced safety features, including Ford Co-Pilot360, which offers adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assistance. With its impressive crash test ratings and ample room for passengers and cargo, the Explorer combines practicality with freedom from worry on every journey.

Car Fact: While the Ford Explorer ranks in the top 10 safest cars, its counterparts Ford Fiesta and Ford Focus are among the most stolen cars in the UK.

Honda CR-V

The 2024 Honda CR-V is a well-rounded compact SUV that prioritise safety and versatility for families and individuals. Featuring Honda Sensing^® technology, which includes adaptive cruise control, collision mitigation braking, and lane-keeping assist, the CR-V provides a comprehensive suite of safety features designed to enhance driver confidence. With its spacious interior, excellent crash test ratings, and reliable performance, the CR-V continues to be a favourite choice for those seeking a safe and practical vehicle.

Toyota C-HR

The 2024 Toyota C-HR is a stylish subcompact SUV that also comes in a plug-in hybrid or hybrid option, and emphasises safety and modern design, appealing to urban drivers and small families. Equipped with Toyota’s Safety Sense suite, including features like pre-collision warning, lane departure alert, and adaptive cruise control, the C-HR offers a reassuring driving experience. Its compact size, impressive crash test ratings, and innovative technology make the C-HR an excellent choice for those seeking a safe and efficient vehicle in a bustling city environment.

FAQs

What is the safest car in the UK?

The Mercedes E-Class ranks as one of the safest cars in the world, thanks to its many superior safety features. These include its advanced driver assistance systems, robust structural integrity, and top ratings in crash tests. With innovative safety features like the PRE-SAFE^® system and a comprehensive airbag array, the E-Class prioritises occupant protection and accident prevention, earning it recognition from consumers and safety organisations.

What car has the least accidents in the UK?

The car with the least accidents in the UK points to the Audi A1. It scored a top five-star safety rating from Euro NCAP 2019 and performed well on reliability surveys, with many owners sharing they experienced minor first year issues.

What is the most unreliable car in Britain?

According to a reliability index, the most unreliable car in Britain was a Range Rover, specifically the Range Rover Sport. Despite the large, luxe design – there were reports that the engine and a few other aspects required an extended warranty.