Luxury buyers pay for comfort, speed, and prestige. Safety should sit on that list too. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety raised its bar again for 2026. The Top Safety Pick+ award is now harder to earn than ever.
The 2026 criteria demand strong results across many crash tests. Vehicles must earn good ratings in the updated moderate overlap front test. They also need top marks in the tougher side test.
Pedestrian crash prevention counts as well. Headlights must perform well on the trims buyers actually see. Rear seat belt reminders are part of the package too.
Many popular luxury SUVs missed one of those marks. Only a short list cleared them all. This article covers twelve that did. They span gas, hybrid, and electric power. They come from six brands.
Audi leads the group. It holds more Luxury Plus awards than any other brand. Four of its models made the cut. Genesis follows with three. BMW lands two. Infiniti, Lexus and Tesla add one each. Each entry below explains what the SUV offers and why it belongs here. Read on to find the one that fits your garage.
1. 2026 Audi Q5
The Q5 is the quiet center of Audi’s lineup. It is a compact luxury SUV built for daily life. The 2026 model is a full redesign. It rides on a refreshed platform with a sharper look. The cabin leans on large screens and clean lines.
Power comes from a turbocharged four-cylinder with mild-hybrid help. Quattro all-wheel drive is standard. Output is about 268 horsepower in the core setup. That is enough for brisk, easy driving. The ride stays calm on rough pavement. Road noise is kept low.
The Q5 earned the Plus award by passing every crash test with strong marks. Its structure protects front and rear occupants well. The side test results are especially solid.
Crash avoidance is just as good. The front crash prevention system handles pedestrians with confidence. Headlights score well on the trims that matter.
Inside, the Q5 balances tech and touch. Physical controls remain for key functions. The seats are supportive on long trips. The cargo room is practical for a family. The rear seat folds flat for bigger loads. Rear space suits adults without a squeeze.
Safety here is not a trim-level extra. The system works as a whole. That makes the Q5 an easy recommendation. Buyers who want a polished all-rounder should start here.
It does not shout for attention. It simply gets the job done well. For Audi, the Q5 sets the tone. Its award shows the brand’s safety work runs deep. It is the foundation of Audi’s strong showing this year.
2. 2026 Audi Q5 Sportback
The Q5 Sportback adds style to the same strong base. Its roofline slopes toward the tail. The look is sleeker and more athletic. Under the skin, it shares the Q5’s core hardware. That includes the turbocharged engine and Quattro drive. The mild-hybrid system helps smooth stop-start moments.
Audi’s goal was a coupe-like shape without a big penalty. Rear headroom gives up a little. Cargo space stays usable. The Sportback earned its own Plus award. That matters because body shape can change crash results. The roof and rear structure differ from the standard Q5. Audi still met the highest marks.
Crash protection holds up in every test. The updated side test, with its heavier barrier, caused no trouble. Rear passengers are well protected too. Pedestrian detection works day and night. The system brakes early and with control. It avoids harsh, jarring stops.
Inside, the cabin mirrors the Q5. Screens are crisp and quick. The driver’s display is clear and customizable. Handling is a bright spot. Steering feels precise. The chassis feels planted in corners.
The Sportback appeals to buyers who want a standout shape. It costs a bit more than the standard model. Many will find the looks worth it. Its award proves style and safety can coexist. Few rivals can say the same this year.
Audi’s second Plus winner shows real depth. For image-conscious families, this is a smart pick. It looks special in a crowded segment. It also protects what matters most.
3. 2027 Audi Q6 e-tron
The Q6 e-tron is Audi’s new electric midsize SUV. It debuts on the Premium Platform Electric. This platform was built with Porsche. The architecture uses 800-volt electrical hardware. That allows very fast DC charging. A quick stop can add many miles.
Range is competitive for the class. Audi quotes figures well past 300 miles on the best setup. Real-world results will vary with weather and speed. Dual motors give strong, smooth acceleration. All-wheel drive is standard on most versions. Performance variants add more punch.
The cabin is a tech showcase. A curved display sweeps across the dash. A passenger screen is available. Seat comfort is excellent. The ride feels composed. The cabin stays hushed at speed.
Safety is a major strength. The battery pack sits low in a rigid structure. That helps both crash protection and stability. The Q6 e-tron earned a Plus award for the 2027 model year. It passed the tough updated tests with strong ratings. Its pedestrian crash prevention also scored well.
Electric SUVs can be heavy. That raises the stakes in a crash. Audi’s engineering handled the load well. Buyers get a family-friendly EV with serious credentials. It is spacious and quick. It also charges fast.
This award adds weight to Audi’s electric push. The Q6 shows the brand can lead in safety and technology together. It is a top choice for EV shoppers.
4. 2027 Audi Q6 Sportback e-tron
The Q6 Sportback e-tron is the sleeker cousin. It shares the platform, motors and tech of the standard Q6. The roofline is lower and more dramatic. That shape helps efficiency. Better airflow can stretch range. Every extra mile counts in an EV.
Power and charging match the regular model. The 800-volt system supports rapid charging. Dual-motor versions deliver strong pull. The Sportback is the more stylish choice. It sacrifices little in practicality. Rear headroom is the main trade-off.
The cabin feels upscale and modern. Materials are rich and well assembled. The big display is bright and responsive. Driving manners are refined. Steering is accurate and light. The suspension absorbs bumps with ease.
The Sportback earned its own Plus award. That is notable for a swoopy roof design. Crash tests showed strong protection for all occupants. Rear seat safety deserves a mention. The updated criteria focus on back-seat passengers. Audi’s results here are encouraging.
Driver aids are smooth and helpful. Adaptive cruise control is natural in use. Lane support does not feel intrusive. For Audi, this is the fourth Plus winner. That tally is the most of any luxury brand.
It supports the headline claim about Audi’s leadership. Shoppers who want an EV with flair should look closely. It pairs beauty with real protection. Few electric SUVs offer both so convincingly.
5. 2026 BMW X3
The X3 has long been the driver’s choice in its class. The latest generation keeps that spirit. It also adds a bold new look. Engine choices include a turbocharged four-cylinder and a stronger M version. Mild-hybrid tech is part of the mix. Xdrive all-wheel drive is standard.
The base engine makes about 255 horsepower. That feels punchy in daily use. The M50 steps up with much more power. Handling is where the X3 shines. Steering is sharp and communicative. Body control is tight without being harsh.
Inside, a curved display dominates the dash. Controls are cleaner than before. Some buyers will miss more physical buttons. Space is generous for a compact SUV. Rear seats are comfortable for adults. Cargo room is practical.
The X3 earned the Plus award for 2026. That reflects strong results in every crash test. The updated side test posed no problem. Pedestrian crash prevention is another strength. The system reacts quickly to people in the road. Headlight performance is solid.
BMW’s engineers also focused on rear occupants. Belt reminders are in place. Restraints protect back-seat riders well. The X3 proves that fun and safety are not rivals.
It is lively on a winding road. It also stands among the safest in its class. For buyers who love driving, it is a standout. The award adds a layer of confidence. BMW has a winner here.
6. 2026 BMW X5
The X5 is BMW’s flagship family SUV. It has been a segment benchmark for decades. The current model remains a smart buy. Engine choices are broad. A smooth turbocharged inline-six is a favorite. A plug-in hybrid adds electric range for short trips.
The inline-six makes around 375 horsepower in the xDrive40i. Power delivery is silky. Acceleration feels effortless. Higher trims add V8 thrills. These cater to speed lovers. Most buyers will find the six plenty.
The X5 rides on a large, stable platform. It feels planted on the highway. Long trips pass with ease. Inside, the cabin is wide and refined. A large curved display houses the infotainment. Seats are comfortable and supportive.
A third row is not offered. Rear space is generous instead. Families get room without bulk. The X5 earned a Plus award in 2026. That is impressive for a design now several years old. It shows BMW kept improving it.
Crash results are strong across the board. The structure protects well in front and side impacts. The newer tests did not trip it up. Safety tech is plentiful. Pedestrian braking works well. The headlights light the road clearly.
The X5 suits buyers who want size and polish. It blends comfort with real driving fun. Its award confirms it is also very safe. BMW lands two winners this year. The X5 is the larger of the pair. It remains a benchmark.
7. 2026 Genesis Electrified GV70
The Electrified GV70 is Genesis’s compact luxury EV. It takes the gas GV70’s good looks and adds electric power. The result is quiet and quick. Dual motors deliver all-wheel drive. Output is about 429 horsepower. A boost mode raises it further.
The battery is around 77 kilowatt-hours. Genesis uses 800-volt architecture. That enables very quick charging. A fast-charge stop can take only minutes for a big range gain. That is a real-world perk on road trips. Many rivals charge more slowly.
The cabin is stylish and calm. Materials feel rich. The design avoids clutter. Ride quality is a highlight. The suspension is soft but controlled. Noise is well suppressed.
Genesis also offers useful extras. A vehicle-to-load feature can power outside devices. That is handy for camping or work. The Electrified GV70 earned a Plus award for 2026. That is a strong result for a young EV. It shows Genesis’s engineering is maturing.
Crash protection is excellent in the key tests. The battery pack sits within a robust structure. Occupant protection is high. Driver assistance is smooth and dependable.
The system handles highway driving with ease. Pedestrian detection is strong. For shoppers wanting an EV with value, this is compelling. It undercuts many German rivals on price. It still delivers luxury and safety.
8. 2026 Genesis GV70
The gas-powered GV70 is the Electrified model’s sibling. It remains one of the best-looking SUVs in its class. Genesis has built a loyal following with it. Two engines are offered. A 2.5-liter turbo four-cylinder makes about 300 horsepower. A 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 makes about 375.
The V6 is the enthusiast’s pick. It delivers strong, smooth power. The four is the more efficient choice. All-wheel drive is available across the range. Handling is sharp and confident. The ride remains comfortable.
Inside, the GV70 feels special. The design is bold but tasteful. Seats are comfortable and well bolstered. The infotainment screen is large and clear. Menus are easy to learn. A rotary controller adds a physical touch.
Value is a big part of the appeal. It undercuts German rivals on price. It also offers a long warranty. The GV70 earned a Plus award for 2026. That makes it a rare gem among compact luxury SUVs. It beat many pricier competitors.
Crash results are strong in every test. The updated side impact test was handled well. Pedestrian braking is effective. Genesis has earned respect for safety. This award adds to that.
It shows the brand sweats the details. For buyers who want luxury without a premium markup, the GV70 stands out. It looks great and drives well. It also protects its occupants brilliantly.
9. 2026 Genesis GV80
The GV80 is Genesis’s midsize luxury SUV. It was the brand’s first SUV. It remains a showpiece. The design is bold and elegant. A large grille leads the front end. The interior feels like a lounge.
Two engines are available. A 2.5-liter turbo four makes about 300 horsepower. A 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 makes about 375. The V6 feels effortless. Power is smooth and plentiful. The eight-speed automatic shifts cleanly.
A third row is offered on some trims. It suits children best. Adults will find it tight. Ride quality is a standout. The GV80 floats over rough roads. It is quiet at speed.
Technology is generous. A big display anchors the cabin. Driver aids are broad and well-tuned. The GV80 earned a Plus award for 2026. That is a big feat for a larger SUV. Heavier vehicles face tougher physics in crashes.
Its results are strong across all tests. Occupants are well protected in front and side impacts. Rear passengers also fare well. Pedestrian crash prevention performs well. Headlights give clear, even light. Both matter after dark.
The GV80 competes with the best from Germany and Japan. It often wins on value. Its award makes the case even stronger. Genesis claims three winners this year. The GV80 is the largest of them. It shows the brand’s safety work spans its lineup.
10. 2026 INFINITI QX60
The QX60 is Infiniti’s three-row family hauler. It targets buyers who need space and calm. It is a comfortable, practical choice. A 3.5-liter V6 powers it. Output is about 295 horsepower. A nine-speed automatic handles shifting.
Power delivery is smooth. The engine is quiet. It is built for easy cruising. Seven-passenger seating is standard on most trims. Second-row captain’s chairs are available. They make access to the third row simple.
The cabin feels upscale. Materials are soft and well finished. Seats are plush. Storage is clever. Cubbies are large and useful. The second row slides to ease third-row entry.
The QX60 earned a Plus award for 2026. That is a big win for Infiniti. Few three-row SUVs reach this level. It scored well in every crash test. Family-focused protection is clear. Rear-seat results are especially important here.
Pedestrian crash prevention is solid. Headlight performance meets the high standard. Both are tough hurdles. The QX60 will not thrill like a BMW. It is built for comfort instead. Many families will prefer that.
For buyers who need seven seats, options are limited. Few can match this safety record. That makes the QX60 an important choice. Infiniti has had a tough run in recent years. This award shows real progress. It gives families a reason to take a fresh look.
11. 2026 Lexus NX
The Lexus NX is the brand’s compact luxury SUV. It has become a sales leader. Its mix of comfort and reliability draws many buyers. Powertrains are varied. A 2.5-liter four-cylinder is the base. A turbocharged 2.4-liter is available.
Hybrids are a strength. The NX 350h blends efficiency with strong power. A plug-in hybrid, the NX 450h+, adds electric range. The plug-in can cover short trips on electricity. That saves fuel for many commuters. It still offers gas backup.
Inside, the NX feels modern. A large central screen sits low on the dash. Controls are intuitive. Build quality is superb. Lexus has a strong reputation. Owners often keep these SUVs for years.
The ride is smooth and quiet. Handling is competent if not sporty. It is a relaxing daily driver. The NX earned a Plus award for 2026. That fits Lexus’s long record on safety. It met the new, tougher criteria.
Crash test results are strong. Occupant protection is high in all areas. The structure holds up well. Standard safety tech is generous. Lexus Safety System+ comes on every trim.
It includes pedestrian detection and adaptive cruise. The NX is a sensible choice. It blends comfort, value and peace of mind. Its award only reinforces that.
12. 2026 Tesla Model Y
The Model Y is the world’s best-selling EV. It has changed the market. Its latest version is even stronger. The refreshed design looks sharper. A full-width light bar sits at the rear. The cabin is quieter than before.
Range is a major strength. Long-range versions travel well past 300 miles. Tesla’s charging network adds convenience. Performance is strong. Acceleration is quick even in base form. All-wheel drive versions feel even faster.
Inside, the cabin is minimalist. A single large screen controls nearly everything. Some drivers love that. Others miss buttons. Space is excellent. The rear seat is roomy. Cargo room includes a front trunk.
The Model Y earned a Plus award for 2026. That is a strong result for a popular EV. It passed the new tests with high marks. The battery pack sits low in the floor. That gives a low center of gravity. It also helps structural strength.
Crash avoidance tech is advanced. Pedestrian detection performs well. Headlight results met the standard. Tesla also updates its cars over the air. Improvements arrive without a dealer visit. That keeps the car fresh.
The Model Y is a complete package. It is efficient, quick and safe. Its award confirms it belongs among the best. It is the only Tesla on this list. It closes out a strong group of twelve. Each one proves luxury and safety can go together.
