As SUV options continue to expand each year, buyers face an increasing number of choices, making it difficult to select the right model for their needs and lifestyle. For families, safety is often a top priority when purchasing a new vehicle.
Various brands, including Kia, Volvo, and Mazda, offer models that emphasize advanced technology and convenience, while others focus on performance and driving excitement. However, for buyers prioritizing safety, knowing which SUVs rank highest in crash tests and safety evaluations can be a crucial starting point.
To provide the most accurate and current safety information, this list highlights ten of the safest SUVs, relying on data from the NHTSA and IIHS. Vehicle pricing details have been gathered from automakers and Kelley Blue Book to ensure transparency.
Most of the models featured carry Five-Star NHTSA safety ratings, and they have been ranked from the most affordable to the most expensive to help buyers make informed decisions within their budget.
1. 2025 Mazda CX-30
The 2025 Mazda CX-30, the smallest SUV in Mazda’s lineup, offers a sporty driving experience with its nimble handling and all-wheel drive (AWD) as standard. It has received top safety ratings, including a 5-star rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ designation from the IIHS.
Buyers can choose between a 191-horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine or a more powerful 227-horsepower turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder. Both engines pair with a six-speed automatic transmission, delivering an EPA-estimated 29 MPG combined for the base model and 25 MPG combined for the turbo version.
Mazda has prioritized safety, with no recalls or NHTSA investigations recorded for the 2025 CX-30. Pricing starts at $24,995 for the base 2.5 S trim, with higher trims offering added performance and luxury.
The lineup includes models like the 2.5 S Select Sport ($26,650), 2.5 S Premium ($32,140), and 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus ($36,950), among others. Each trim level builds on the last, adding enhanced technology, comfort, and driver assistance features to suit different budgets and needs.
Standard features across all models include an 8.8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and a six-speaker audio system. Safety features such as forward collision mitigation, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot warning are included in all trims.
For those seeking the highest level of safety and convenience, the top-tier 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus trim adds features like front and rear parking sensors, rear cross-traffic alert with automatic braking, a surround-view camera, and an upgraded adaptive cruise control system.
2. 2025 Honda CR-V
The 2025 Honda CR-V is a practical and well-rounded SUV, appealing to buyers who prioritize convenience and reliability over flashy performance.
However, it still offers a smooth and responsive driving experience, with a standard turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 190 horsepower, available in both front-wheel and all-wheel drive configurations.
For those seeking better fuel efficiency, the hybrid variant pairs a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor to generate 204 horsepower. The non-hybrid CR-V achieves an EPA-estimated 30 MPG combined, while the hybrid version delivers an impressive 40 MPG combined.
Safety remains a strong selling point for the CR-V, earning a 5-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a 2024 Top Safety Pick from the IIHS. However, it has been subject to one recall related to steering gearbox damage.
Pricing starts at $30,100 for the base LX trim, with higher trims such as the EX ($32,350), Sport Hybrid ($34,650), and top-tier Sport Touring Hybrid ($41,100) offering additional features and improved performance. The hybrid models provide a balance of power and efficiency, making them an attractive option for eco-conscious buyers.
Standard features on the base CR-V include push-button start, a seven-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a four-speaker audio system. Basic safety features like forward collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control come standard, while higher trims add more advanced driver-assistance technologies.
The EX trim and above introduce blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, while the EX-L and higher trims offer premium safety upgrades such as front and rear parking sensors and low-speed automatic braking.
3. 2025 Mazda CX-50
The 2025 Mazda CX-50 embraces a rugged and adventurous design, differentiating itself from its sportier sibling, the CX-30. Offering a range of customization options, the CX-50 is available with three powertrain choices: a 187-horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder, a 219-horsepower hybrid variant, and a 227-horsepower turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder.
Gas-powered models come with a six-speed automatic transmission, while the hybrid utilizes a CVT. All-wheel drive (AWD) is standard across the lineup, enhancing handling and off-road capability.
Safety is a priority for the CX-50, earning a 5-star rating from the NHTSA and a 2024 IIHS Top Safety Pick+ designation. However, it has been subject to one recall related to a forward-sensing camera malfunction.
Pricing starts at $30,300 for the base 2.5 S Select trim, with premium options like the Turbo Meridian Edition ($40,800) and the fully loaded Turbo Premium Plus ($43,300) offering increased performance and luxury. With a variety of trims available, buyers can find a model that suits their budget and feature preferences.
The CX-50 comes well-equipped with standard features such as remote keyless entry, dual-zone climate control, synthetic leather accents, and a large 10.25-inch infotainment display with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Safety features include forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, lane departure mitigation, and adaptive cruise control.
Higher trims, like the 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus, add advanced technologies such as a surround-view monitor, reverse automatic braking, and blind-spot intervention, making the CX-50 a strong choice for those seeking a refined yet adventure-ready SUV.
4. 2025 Kia Telluride
The 2025 Kia Telluride continues to be one of the most popular SUVs on the market, offering a strong combination of value, versatility, and practicality.
Retaining its reputation for reliability and comfort, the latest Telluride features a 3.8-liter V6 engine producing 291 horsepower, paired with front-wheel drive as standard and optional all-wheel drive on most trims.
The fuel economy is rated at an EPA-estimated 23 MPG combined, with real-world tests confirming similar efficiency. With no recalls or investigations reported, Telluride also maintains a solid track record for reliability and safety.
The Telluride has earned high safety ratings, including a 5-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a 2024 IIHS Top Safety Pick+ designation. Buyers have plenty of options to choose from, with ten different trims ranging from the base LX at $36,390 to the fully loaded SX Prestige X-Pro at $53,685.
The higher trims introduce more off-road capability, premium comfort features, and advanced technology, allowing customers to tailor their Telluride to fit their lifestyle, whether they need a rugged adventurer or a luxury family hauler.
Even at the base level, the Telluride offers generous standard features, including seating for eight, dual-zone climate control, synthetic leather upholstery, and a 12.3-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Safety features such as adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, forward collision mitigation, and lane-keeping assist come standard across all trims. With its spacious interior, strong safety credentials, and extensive customization options, the 2025 Kia Telluride remains a top choice for families and SUV enthusiasts alike.
5. 2025 Hyundai Palisade
The 2025 Hyundai Palisade remains a top contender in the three-row SUV segment, offering a spacious interior with seating for up to eight passengers and ample cargo space.
With a starting MSRP of $36,800, it is one of the more affordable options in its class while still delivering a high level of standard features and a modern, well-appointed cabin. All trims are powered by a 3.8-liter V6 engine producing 291 horsepower, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and either front-wheel or all-wheel drive.
Safety is a strong suit for the Palisade, earning a 5-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a 2024 IIHS Top Safety Pick designation. With no recalls or NHTSA investigations, the Palisade continues to maintain a solid reputation for reliability.
Buyers have multiple trim options, ranging from the base SE at $36,800 to the fully loaded Calligraphy Night at $54,400. Higher trims introduce luxury-focused amenities and advanced driver-assist features, making the Palisade an appealing choice for families seeking both comfort and safety.
Even the base SE model comes packed with features like dual-zone automatic climate control, a 12.3-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, GPS navigation, and Hyundai’s Bluelink connected services.
Standard safety equipment includes forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert.
Higher trims add premium features like rear automatic braking, remote start parking assist, a digital rearview mirror, and a blind-spot camera, ensuring that the Palisade provides both practicality and a premium feel across its lineup.
Also Read: 10 Best Plug-In Hybrid SUVs for Maximum Efficiency and Long-Distance Driving in 2025
6. 2025 Mazda CX-90
The 2025 Mazda CX-90 is the brand’s largest SUV, offering a spacious and upscale cabin packed with premium features.
For the new model year, it comes with three powertrain options: a 280-horsepower turbocharged 3.3-liter six-cylinder, a more powerful 340-horsepower version of the same engine, and a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variant combining a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor for a total of 323 horsepower.
Both hybrid and non-hybrid models achieve around 25 MPG combined, while the PHEV also provides up to 25 miles of all-electric driving range.
Safety is a priority for the CX-90, earning a 5-star rating from the NHTSA and a 2024 IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award. While it has one reported recall, there are no active NHTSA investigations.
Buyers can choose from several trims, with pricing starting at $37,845 for the base 3.3 Turbo Select and going up to $56,450 for the top-tier 3.3 Turbo S Premium Plus. The higher trims introduce more luxury features and advanced safety technologies, making the CX-90 a well-rounded option for those seeking both performance and practicality.
Inside, the CX-90 comes with a generous list of standard features, including a power liftgate, keyless entry and ignition, tri-zone climate control, synthetic leather upholstery, and a 10.25-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Standard safety features include forward collision mitigation, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, lane-keeping assist, and a driver attention monitor.
Higher trims add even more advanced driver-assist technologies, such as front cross-traffic alert with automatic braking and reverse automatic braking, reinforcing the CX-90’s reputation as a safe and luxurious three-row SUV.
7. 2024 Hyundai Ioniq 5
The 2024 Hyundai Ioniq 5 remains a strong contender in the all-electric SUV market, offering futuristic styling, advanced technology, and spacious accommodations. While it was previously Hyundai’s largest EV, the introduction of the three-row Ioniq 9 has taken that title.
The Ioniq 5 offers different powertrain configurations, with single-motor models producing between 168 and 225 horsepower, depending on trim. The AWD version adds a second motor to boost output to 320 horsepower.
Range varies from 245 miles in the base SE Standard Range to an impressive 318 miles with the RWD long-range model.
Despite its innovative features, the Ioniq 5 has had three recalls and one NHTSA investigation, though it still holds a 5-star NHTSA safety rating and an IIHS 2023 Top Safety Pick+ award.
The lineup includes trims starting at $42,500 for the SE Standard Range and going up to $55,400 for the rugged XRT trim. Each trim level brings additional luxury and safety enhancements, making the Ioniq 5 a well-rounded option for those seeking an electric SUV with modern tech and high efficiency.
Inside, the Ioniq 5 comes well-equipped with standard features such as a digital gauge cluster, dual-zone automatic climate control, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, heated front seats, GPS, and a 12.3-inch infotainment display with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Safety is a strong suit, with features like forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot intervention, and a lane-keeping system included across all trims.
Higher trims offer more advanced features, including front parking sensors, an auto parking system, and a 360-degree camera, enhancing convenience and driver assistance capabilities.
8. 2025 Genesis GV60
The 2025 Genesis GV60 is a luxury electric SUV that blends high performance with premium features. Equipped with a 77.4-kWh battery, it offers both rear-wheel-drive (RWD) and all-wheel-drive (AWD) configurations.
The single-motor RWD model delivers 225 horsepower and achieves an impressive 294-mile range, while the dual-motor AWD version increases output to 314 horsepower with a slightly lower 264-mile range.
For those seeking maximum performance, the Performance AWD trim pushes power to 429 horsepower but sacrifices range, offering up to 235 miles per charge.
Despite two recalls, including one for a charging unit issue, the GV60 maintains strong safety ratings, earning a 5-star rating from the NHTSA and an IIHS 2024 Top Safety Pick designation. Pricing starts at $52,350 for the Standard RWD trim, while the top-tier Performance AWD model reaches $69,900.
With its competitive pricing and strong safety credentials, the GV60 positions itself as an appealing option in the luxury EV segment, combining style, innovation, and performance.
Inside, the GV60 boasts a high-end cabin with synthetic leather upholstery, a hands-free liftgate, heated power-adjustable front seats, and dual-zone climate control. Standard technology features include a 12.3-inch touchscreen, GPS, wireless charging, and smartphone connectivity.
Safety is also a highlight, with advanced driver-assistance systems such as forward collision mitigation, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot intervention, and lane-keeping assist coming standard. With an upscale interior and a wealth of cutting-edge features, the 2025 Genesis GV60 stands out as a top-tier luxury EV.
9. 2025 Genesis GV80
The 2025 Genesis GV80 is a luxury SUV designed to compete with high-end models from brands like Mercedes-Benz and BMW. It comes standard with AWD and offers two powerful engine options: a 300-horsepower 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder and a 375-horsepower turbocharged 3.5-liter V6.
Both are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, providing a balance of strong performance and efficiency. With its refined styling and smooth ride, the GV80 remains a top choice for those seeking a premium SUV experience.
Starting at $58,200, the GV80 offers a variety of trims, with the highest-tier 3.5T Prestige AWD model reaching $79,800. It has received an IIHS 2024 Top Safety Pick+ award, though NHTSA crash ratings are limited, with a 4-star rating for frontal and rollover tests.
A single recall has been reported, but no NHTSA investigations are ongoing. These factors contribute to its reputation as a reliable and well-engineered luxury SUV.
Inside, the GV80 offers a plush, high-end cabin filled with advanced technology and comfort features. Standard amenities include a massive 27-inch display, heated front seats, wireless device charging, a 12-speaker sound system, and synthetic leather upholstery.
Its extensive safety suite includes forward collision warning with automatic braking, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot intervention, and parking sensors. With premium materials and meticulous attention to detail, the 2025 Genesis GV80 delivers a luxurious and feature-rich driving experience.
10. 2025 Volvo XC90
The 2025 Volvo XC90 continues the brand’s legacy of safety and innovation, receiving top ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA. It offers three powertrain options: a 247-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder, a 295-horsepower higher-tuned turbo-four, and a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) producing 455 horsepower with an electric-only range of 32 miles.
AWD comes standard on gas-powered models, while the PHEV is RWD-only. With its combination of performance, efficiency, and safety, the XC90 remains a competitive luxury SUV.
Starting at $59,745, the XC90 is available in three trims: Core, Plus, and Ultra, with the highest trim priced at $68,245. It boasts a clean record with no recalls or NHTSA investigations, further reinforcing its reputation for reliability.
The model has earned a 5-star NHTSA safety rating, though its most recent IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award was in 2018. While newer competitors may have surpassed it in some areas, Volvo’s dedication to passenger protection remains a strong selling point.
Inside, the XC90 offers a minimalist yet premium cabin with high-end materials and intuitive technology. Standard features include synthetic leather upholstery, four-zone automatic climate control, heated front seats, a digital gauge cluster, a nine-inch infotainment display with Google-based GPS, and Apple CarPlay integration.
The extensive safety suite includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, rear auto braking, and parking sensors. Volvo also prioritizes passive safety features, making the XC90 a secure and comfortable choice for families and luxury SUV buyers alike.
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