As of January 2025, the average new car in the U.S. costs $48,641, a significant financial undertaking for most buyers. This price reflects a gradual climb from the previous year’s average of $48,031. Despite the rising costs, safety remains a priority for many consumers.
Thankfully, buyers don’t have to spend top dollar for peace of mind. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) highlights ten vehicles that have achieved the prestigious Top Safety Pick Plus designation, providing both affordability and protection through rigorous crash testing and safety feature evaluations.
To earn a Top Safety Pick Plus award, a vehicle must meet five stringent criteria established by the IIHS. These include a Good rating in the small overlap front test and a Good or Acceptable score in the updated moderate overlap front crash test.
Additionally, vehicles must perform well in the updated side impact test and offer headlights with at least Acceptable ratings. Lastly, a Good or Acceptable result in the pedestrian front crash prevention test is required. These standards ensure that only the most well-rounded and protective models receive the top accolade.
1. Mazda3: Style Meets Safety
The Mazda3, available as a sedan or hatchback, is Mazda’s entry-level offering and scores impressively across nearly all IIHS crash tests. It only falters slightly in the headlight category for some trims. Starting at $25,335, it’s an affordable option for safety-conscious buyers.
With available all-wheel drive and a turbocharged variant delivering 250 horsepower, the Mazda3 isn’t just safe—it’s fun to drive. It also offers a manual transmission option, which is increasingly rare. The blend of sharp design, varied configurations, and solid safety results makes this compact car an appealing all-rounder.
2. Honda Civic: Reliable as Ever
A perennial favorite, the 2025 Honda Civic continues to live up to its reputation with solid safety scores. It earned a Top Safety Pick Plus designation for the sedan variant, though the hatchback didn’t meet the same mark.
The Civic offers two powertrains: a standard 2.0-liter four-cylinder and a more efficient hybrid setup delivering up to 519 miles of range. With a starting price of $25,345, it’s affordable, efficient, and dependable. Winning the 2025 North American Car of the Year award further affirms its standing as a top choice in the compact sedan category.
3. Hyundai Kona: Versatility with Flair
The Hyundai Kona brings a unique personality to the compact SUV segment. It’s available in both gas-powered and electric variants, starting at $26,000. All trims performed well in IIHS crash tests, though headlights scored only Acceptable.
Buyers can select from a base 2.0-liter engine or a turbocharged 1.6-liter, making the vehicle adaptable to different preferences. The Kona N Line offers a sportier flavor, though it remains more about comfort than performance.
With multiple configurations and a standout design, the Kona combines flair, safety, and value in a practical crossover package.
4. Mazda CX-30: The Stylish Small SUV
Closely related to the Mazda3, the CX-30 offers a higher ride height and SUV versatility. It excels in every IIHS test and even earned a five-star safety rating from the NHTSA. Pricing starts at $26,615, and turbocharged variants push output to 250 horsepower.
Even the base models include advanced safety features like radar cruise control and lane-keeping assist. The CX-30 blends upscale design with a robust safety suite, making it a compelling option for buyers who want compact SUV practicality without sacrificing visual appeal or safety.
5. Honda HR-V: Compact and Capable
The Honda HR-V is the brand’s most affordable SUV, beginning at $26,795. It earned solid IIHS scores across the board, though its headlight rating is Acceptable. Power comes from a modest 2.0-liter engine with a CVT, prioritizing efficiency over performance.
While not the sportiest, it excels in practicality and comfort. Higher trims include features like blind-spot monitoring and parking sensors. For buyers looking for a dependable, safe, and reasonably priced crossover, the HR-V remains a sensible and secure choice in Honda’s lineup of vehicles.
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6. Honda Accord: A Sedan Staple
The Honda Accord has long been a benchmark in the midsize sedan segment. Priced from $29,445, the 2025 version maintains its strong reputation for safety and comfort. It aced IIHS crash tests, earning the Top Safety Pick Plus.
Buyers can choose between a turbocharged 1.5-liter engine or a hybrid setup. Even the base model includes Honda’s full suite of safety tech. With its elegant styling, ample passenger space, and long-standing reliability, the Accord remains a top pick for families and professionals seeking a safe, mid-size sedan.
7. Toyota Prius: Hybrid Pioneer, Still Leading
Long celebrated for fuel efficiency, the 2025 Toyota Prius now adds style and safety to its résumé. It received Top Safety Pick Plus recognition, with Good scores across most tests. Prices start at $29,485. The Prius offers all-wheel drive on select trims and returns up to 57 mpg in front-wheel-drive variants.
Though not a performance vehicle, it appeals with its hybrid powertrain’s practicality. With upgraded aesthetics and proven efficiency, the Prius continues to dominate in its niche, ideal for eco-conscious drivers who also want a secure and stylish ride.
8. Toyota Camry: The Hybrid Gold Standard
The Toyota Camry, priced from $29,835, retains its stronghold in the midsize market by combining hybrid efficiency with safety. It received top ratings from the IIHS and offers both front- and all-wheel-drive hybrid setups. With fuel economy reaching 51 mpg, it provides stellar efficiency for a vehicle of its size.
The Camry’s broad lineup ranges from practical LE trims to sportier SE and luxurious XLE variants. All models now feature hybrid powertrains, making the Camry a wise and green choice for those unwilling to compromise on comfort, space, or safety.
9. Hyundai Tucson: Stylish and High-Tech
The Hyundai Tucson delivers bold design and a tech-rich interior, starting at $30,155. It met all IIHS safety criteria, though its vehicle-to-vehicle crash prevention score was moderate. The Tucson’s range of powertrains includes gas, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid options. Higher trims feature upscale amenities like twin 12.3-inch displays.
With horsepower ranging from 187 to 268 across trims, the Tucson accommodates varied performance needs. Buyers seeking cutting-edge design, tech, and flexibility in an SUV will find the Tucson to be a standout pick in a crowded market.
10. Mazda CX-50: Rugged Elegance
The Mazda CX-50 offers rugged refinement and comprehensive safety, earning the IIHS Top Safety Pick Plus award. Starting at $31,920, it features a stylish design and expanded hybrid lineup for 2025. Engine options range from a 187-hp base engine to a 256-hp turbocharged version.
The new hybrid delivers 219 horsepower and 38 mpg combined. With top safety features and an adventurous aesthetic, the CX-50 serves buyers seeking a premium-feeling crossover that can handle both city commutes and off-road escapes with confidence and capability.
Despite rising vehicle prices, consumers can still find new cars that offer top-tier safety without breaking the bank. The ten models covered here showcase a range of options—from sedans to crossovers, hybrids to gas-only powertrains—all united by their IIHS Top Safety Pick Plus awards.
These vehicles balance affordability, performance, and advanced safety technology, proving that peace of mind doesn’t have to come at a luxury cost. Whether you’re prioritizing fuel efficiency, modern features, or family-friendly utility, there’s a safe car in this list to meet your needs in 2025.
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