Car safety has become a top priority for consumers, automakers, and regulatory agencies worldwide. Advanced safety features, rigorous crash tests, and cutting-edge technology now define the best vehicles on the road. Some car brands consistently outperform others in safety ratings, offering drivers and passengers greater peace of mind. Here’s a look at the top 10 car brands with the best safety ratings in 2025, based on crash test results, driver-assist features, and real-world performance.

1. Volvo

Volvo has built its reputation on safety, continuously developing groundbreaking technologies to protect passengers. The brand’s vehicles score high in Euro NCAP and IIHS safety tests. Features like City Safety with Autobrake, Pilot Assist, and Run-off Road Protection reduce accident risks significantly.

Key Safety Features:

• Advanced driver-assist system with adaptive cruise control
• Collision mitigation with pedestrian and cyclist detection
• High-strength steel structure for impact protection
• Standard blind-spot monitoring and lane-keeping aid

2. Mercedes-Benz

Mercedes-Benz blends luxury with state-of-the-art safety. The brand’s Pre-Safe® technology detects impending collisions and adjusts seat belts, windows, and suspension to minimize impact. Models like the E-Class and S-Class consistently receive top crash-test ratings from global safety organizations.

Key Safety Features:

• Pre-Safe® predictive crash detection
• Active Distance Assist (adaptive cruise control)
• Attention Assist (driver fatigue monitoring)
• Car-to-X communication for road hazard alerts

3. Tesla

Tesla’s vehicles receive high safety scores due to their low center of gravity, rigid battery structure, and advanced driver-assist systems. The Model Y and Model 3 both achieve five-star safety ratings in crash tests. Tesla’s Autopilot and Full Self-Driving (FSD) suite enhances road safety through automated lane-keeping, adaptive braking, and collision avoidance.

Key Safety Features:

• Automatic emergency braking with real-time AI processing
• Forward collision warning and lane-departure avoidance
• Over-the-air software updates for continuous safety improvements
• Industry-leading side-impact protection

4. Subaru

Subaru prioritizes safety across all its models, integrating EyeSight Driver Assist Technology as a standard feature. Vehicles like the Outback and Forester consistently achieve IIHS Top Safety Pick+ awards due to their robust structural integrity and high crashworthiness scores.

Key Safety Features:

• EyeSight technology with adaptive cruise control and lane-centering
• All-wheel drive for enhanced road grip in adverse conditions
• Reinforced vehicle frame for improved crash resistance
• Driver monitoring system to detect drowsiness or distraction

5. Audi

Audi combines German engineering with advanced safety systems, consistently earning high marks in crash tests. The Audi Pre Sense technology detects potential accidents and prepares the vehicle by tightening seatbelts and closing windows. Audi’s quattro all-wheel drive improves stability on slippery surfaces.

Key Safety Features:

• Audi Pre Sense front and rear collision mitigation
• Traffic jam assist with semi-autonomous driving capability
• Night vision assist for improved visibility in low-light conditions
• Exit warning system to prevent door-opening collisions

6. BMW

BMW offers a combination of performance and advanced safety, making it one of the safest luxury brands on the market. The BMW X5, 3 Series, and 5 Series frequently top safety rankings due to their reinforced chassis and cutting-edge driver aids. BMW’s Driving Assistant Professional suite enhances collision prevention.

Key Safety Features:

• Lane-keeping assist and blind-spot detection
• Cross-traffic alert with automated emergency braking
• Parking Assistant Plus for improved maneuverability
• Collision mitigation with pedestrian and cyclist detection

7. Toyota

Toyota consistently ranks as one of the safest car brands, thanks to its Toyota Safety Sense (TSS) suite, which comes standard in most models. Vehicles like the Camry, RAV4, and Corolla score top safety marks due to their crash avoidance and durability.

Key Safety Features:

• Pre-collision system with pedestrian detection
• Lane-departure alert with steering assist
• Road sign assist for recognizing traffic signals
• Dynamic radar cruise control for highway safety

8. Honda

Honda remains a leader in safety innovation, with models like the Accord, CR-V, and Civic earning IIHS Top Safety Pick+ awards. The brand’s Honda Sensing® suite includes some of the most reliable driver-assist features, ensuring accident prevention and mitigation.

Key Safety Features:

• Collision mitigation braking system
• Lane-keeping assist and adaptive cruise control
• Road departure mitigation
• Traffic sign recognition for added driver awareness

9. Lexus

Lexus, Toyota’s luxury division, prioritizes safety with the Lexus Safety System+. The brand’s vehicles regularly receive five-star crash-test ratings from NHTSA and IIHS. The Lexus RX, ES, and LS models offer advanced driver-assist technologies that make driving safer and more intuitive.

Key Safety Features:

• Lexus Safety System+ with lane-tracing assist
• Intelligent high beams for better nighttime visibility
• Adaptive variable suspension for stable handling
• Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert

10. Volvo Polestar

Polestar, Volvo’s performance electric sub-brand, incorporates Volvo’s legendary safety standards with modern EV technology. The Polestar 2 ranks among the safest electric vehicles, thanks to its Pilot Assist technology and ultra-strong steel construction.

Key Safety Features:

• Pilot Assist with hands-on lane-centering
• Front and rear collision warning systems
• Emergency stop assist for driver incapacitation scenarios
• Advanced impact protection for EV battery safety

Conclusion

Safety remains a critical factor in choosing a car, and these top 10 car brands consistently deliver exceptional protection for drivers, passengers, and pedestrians. Volvo, Mercedes-Benz, and Tesla lead the industry with groundbreaking safety innovations, while Toyota, Honda, and Subaru provide high safety ratings in mainstream segments. Luxury brands like Audi, BMW, and Lexus also maintain top-tier crash test scores.

Choosing a vehicle from these manufacturers ensures a safer driving experience, whether you prioritize collision avoidance, autonomous driving aids, or structural integrity. As automakers continue advancing safety technology, consumers can expect even greater protection on the road in the coming years.