Sport Utility Vehicles (SUVs) have long been revered for their blend of power, versatility, and commanding presence on the road. However, in an era where family safety is paramount, these vehicles are rapidly transforming into bastions of protection, leading the charge in automotive safety innovations. The advancements in driver-assistance systems, crash prevention technologies, and structural design are fundamentally redefining what it means to travel securely, making modern SUVs some of the safest vehicles available today.
For families navigating the complexities of daily commutes and adventurous road trips, the peace of mind that comes with superior vehicle safety is invaluable. Tragic statistics, such as the 1,658 fatalities and 149,473 injuries reported by Transport Canada in 2020 alone, underscore the persistent dangers on our roads. This stark reality intensifies the need for vehicles that not only meet but exceed safety expectations, offering robust protection for every passenger, especially children. Therefore, choosing an SUV equipped with cutting-edge safety features and stellar crash protection ratings is no longer a luxury but a crucial decision for family well-being.
This in-depth exploration delves into the sophisticated technologies that are elevating SUVs to new heights of safety. We will examine how intelligent systems like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking actively work to prevent accidents or significantly mitigate their impact. Coupled with superior crashworthiness—validated by rigorous testing from institutions like the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)—these advancements are ensuring that today’s SUVs offer an unparalleled secure environment for our most precious cargo. Let’s embark on a journey through some of the top contenders, beginning with the foundational models that exemplify this commitment to safety.
1. **Hyundai Tucson**The Hyundai Tucson stands as a testament to how a compact SUV can deliver an uncompromising commitment to safety. It comes equipped with a formidable array of standard features designed to prevent accidents, including forward collision avoidance, which actively monitors the road ahead for potential hazards. This is complemented by lane-keeping assist, a crucial system that helps drivers maintain their lane, and driver attention warning, which provides alerts if signs of drowsy or distracted driving are detected.
In the unfortunate event of a collision, the Tucson’s robust safety architecture comes into play. Its rigid body structure is engineered to absorb and dissipate impact forces, minimizing harm to occupants. This foundational strength is further enhanced by seven strategically placed airbags, offering comprehensive protection from various angles. The combination of active prevention and passive protection makes the Tucson a formidable guardian on the road.
The excellence of the Tucson’s safety design is independently validated by leading safety organizations. The IIHS has honored it with the prestigious TOP SAFETY PICK+ award for 2023, signifying its superior performance in crash tests and advanced front crash prevention. Concurrently, the NHTSA has bestowed upon it a perfect 5-star overall safety rating, reinforcing its reliability across a spectrum of crash scenarios. These accolades underscore the Tucson’s capability to provide a highly secure environment for families.
Hyundai further elevates the safety profile in its higher trims, offering advanced features such as blind spot monitoring, which alerts drivers to vehicles in their blind spots, and rear cross-traffic alert, crucial for safe backing out of parking spaces. The inclusion of safe exit warning is a thoughtful addition, preventing passengers from opening doors into oncoming traffic. Beyond its impressive safety credentials, the Tucson offers outstanding value, making it an excellent choice for families prioritizing both protection and affordability, backed by Hyundai’s industry-leading warranties.
Car Model Information: 2024 Hyundai TUCSON SEL
Name: Hyundai Tucson
Caption: Hyundai Tucson (NX4, SWB)
Manufacturer: Hyundai Motor Company
Aka: Hyundai ix35 (2009–2015)
Production: 2004–present
ModelYears: 2005–present
Class: Compact crossover SUV
BodyStyle: sport utility vehicle
Layout: Front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout,Front-engine, four-wheel-drive layout
Sp: us
Categories: 2010s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All articles needing additional references, All articles with dead external links, All articles with unsourced statements
Summary: The Hyundai Tucson (; Korean: 현대 투싼) is a compact crossover SUV produced by the South Korean manufacturer Hyundai. It is named after the city of Tucson, Arizona, U.S.
The second-generation model was marketed as the Hyundai ix35 in several markets, including Europe, Australia and China, before reverting to Tucson for the third-generation. Since its first-generation, the Tucson has been developed alongside the Kia Sportage, sharing platforms and engines.
The Tucson is the best-selling Hyundai model, with more than 7 million units sold globally since it launched in 2004. Of these, 1.4 million units have been sold in Europe.
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Brand: Hyundai Model: Tucson
Price: $20,999 Mileage: 58,198 mi.
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2. **Mazda CX-5**The Mazda CX-5 emerges as an outstanding contender for families who place a premium on comprehensive safety. Its inherent safety prowess is largely attributed to Mazda’s i-Activsense system, a sophisticated suite of driver assistance features engineered to enhance situational awareness and proactively avert accidents. This integrated system includes essential technologies like adaptive cruise control, which intelligently maintains a safe following distance, and automatic emergency braking, capable of intervening to prevent or lessen the severity of a frontal collision.
Further bolstering its accident prevention capabilities, the i-Activsense system incorporates lane departure warning, providing timely alerts if the vehicle begins to drift unintentionally. These core features work synergistically to provide a vigilant co-pilot, empowering drivers with an enhanced sense of control and reducing the likelihood of common road hazards. The CX-5’s commitment to safety is evident in its holistic approach to driver support.
For those seeking an even higher echelon of protective technologies, the CX-5’s higher trims introduce a suite of advanced options. These include a comprehensive 360-degree camera system, offering a bird’s-eye view for effortless maneuvering and parking. Rear cross-traffic alert provides critical warnings when backing out of spaces, while Mazda’s innovative Night Vision system utilizes infrared technology to detect pedestrians and large animals in challenging low-light conditions, significantly enhancing nighttime safety.
Reinforcing its status as one of the safest SUVs in its segment, the CX-5 has consistently garnered top safety ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA. These independent assessments affirm its superior crashworthiness and the effectiveness of its safety systems, providing families with undeniable peace of mind. While safety is its paramount strength, the CX-5 also delivers an engaging driving experience, a refined cabin, and strong reliability ratings, making it a truly well-rounded option for discerning consumers.
Car Model Information: 2017 Mazda CX-5 Touring
Name: Mazda CX-5
Caption: Second generation CX-5 (KF; 2024)
Manufacturer: Mazda
Production: 2012–present
ModelYears: 2013–present
Class: Compact crossover SUV
BodyStyle: SUV
Layout: unbulleted list
Predecessor: unbulleted list
Categories: 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All articles containing potentially dated statements, All articles lacking reliable references, All articles with dead external links
Summary: The Mazda CX-5 is a compact crossover SUV, produced by Mazda since 2012. A successor to both the Tribute and the slightly larger CX-7, it is Mazda’s first model to feature the “Kodo” design language and the first model to be fully developed with a range of technologies branded as Skyactiv, including a rigid, lightweight platform combined with a series of engines and transmissions to reduce emissions and fuel consumption.
Since 2019, the CX-5 is positioned above the smaller CX-30. As of 2022, depending on the region, the CX-5 is positioned right below the larger CX-50, CX-60 or the CX-8 within Mazda’s crossover SUV line-up.
Since 2014, the CX-5 has consistently been Mazda’s best-selling model globally. It achieved record sales in 2019, with 444,262 units sold worldwide. As of March 2022, cumulative sales of the CX-5 reached around 3.5 million units.
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Brand: Mazda Model: CX-5
Price: $15,692 Mileage: 81,219 mi.
Read more about: Unlocking Long-Term Value: The Top 10 SUVs That Hold Their Worth After Five Years, According to Expert Analysis
3. **Subaru Forester**The Subaru Forester consistently ranks as a leading choice for family safety, a direct reflection of Subaru’s deeply ingrained commitment to protecting both drivers and passengers. At the very heart of its safety architecture is the renowned EyeSight Driver Assist Technology. This advanced system acts as an extra set of eyes on the road, integrating crucial features such such as adaptive cruise control, which adjusts speed to maintain safe distances, and pre-collision braking, designed to mitigate or prevent frontal impacts.
EyeSight also includes lane-keeping assist, providing gentle steering inputs to help the vehicle remain within its lane markings, thereby reducing the risk of unintentional lane departures. These sophisticated systems are meticulously engineered to enhance driver awareness, improve reaction times, and proactively address potential hazards before they escalate. This proactive approach to safety is a cornerstone of the Forester’s protective capabilities.
In terms of safeguarding occupants during a collision, the Forester consistently earns top ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA, solidifying its reputation for exceptional crash protection. Its meticulously reinforced body structure, coupled with an advanced safety cage, is designed to absorb impact energy efficiently, ensuring maximum occupant integrity in the event of a crash. This structural integrity is critical for real-world safety performance.
Standard safety features further augment the Forester’s protective shield, including a rearview camera for improved visibility, and advanced front airbags that deploy strategically to protect occupants. Subaru’s symmetrical all-wheel drive system, also standard, provides enhanced stability and superior control across diverse and challenging road conditions, adding another layer of accident prevention. This comprehensive suite ensures confidence in all driving scenarios.
For those seeking even greater assurance, the Forester offers optional safety technologies that include blind-spot detection and rear cross-traffic alert, invaluable for navigating busy traffic and parking lots. Reverse automatic braking provides an additional safeguard when backing up, preventing minor collisions. Beyond its stellar safety, the Forester excels in practicality, offering a spacious interior, generous cargo capacity, excellent outward visibility, making it an ideal SUV for active families who refuse to compromise on safety or utility.
Car Model Information: 2021 Subaru Forester Premium
Name: Subaru Forester
Manufacturer: Subaru
Production: 1997–present
Class: Compact crossover SUV
BodyStyle: SUV
Related: Subaru Impreza
Layout: Front-engine, all-wheel drive
Predecessor: Subaru Bighorn
Categories: 2000s cars, 2010s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles written in American English, All articles containing potentially dated statements
Summary: The Subaru Forester is a compact crossover SUV that has been manufactured by Subaru since 1997. The first generation was built on the platform of the Impreza in the style of a taller station wagon, a style that continued to the second generation, while the third-generation model onwards moved towards a crossover SUV design. A performance model was available for the second-generation Forester in Japan as the Forester STi.
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Price: $24,999 Mileage: 40,573 mi.
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4. **Honda CR-V**The Honda CR-V is a consistently strong contender in the family SUV segment, distinguished by its comprehensive suite of standard safety features. Central to its protective capabilities is the Honda Sensing system, a sophisticated collection of advanced driver-assistive technologies. This system integrates forward collision warning, which alerts drivers to potential frontal impacts, and automatic emergency braking, capable of automatically applying the brakes to prevent or reduce the severity of a collision.
Complementing these crucial features, Honda Sensing also includes lane-keeping assist, which gently steers the vehicle back into its lane if unintentional drifting is detected, and adaptive cruise control, which intelligently maintains a set speed and following distance from the vehicle ahead. These technologies work in concert to significantly reduce the likelihood of accidents, acting as a vigilant co-pilot to enhance driver awareness and response in critical moments.
Higher trim levels of the CR-V elevate its safety profile even further, incorporating blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. These additions provide crucial awareness in challenging driving scenarios, such as changing lanes on busy highways or reversing out of congested parking areas. By expanding the driver’s perception of their surroundings, these features contribute significantly to overall road safety.
Beyond its advanced safety technologies, the CR-V has demonstrated outstanding performance in rigorous independent testing. It has consistently earned top ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA, securing a “Top Safety Pick+” designation and a perfect 5-star overall safety score. These accolades are a testament to its robust construction and advanced safety cage, which provide excellent crash protection by efficiently absorbing and distributing impact forces away from occupants.
In addition to its class-leading safety, the CR-V excels in practicality and convenience. It boasts a spacious and adaptable interior, user-friendly technology interfaces, and a remarkably comfortable ride quality, making it ideal for families. Coupled with Honda’s well-deserved reputation for reliability and strong resale value, the CR-V represents a smart, long-term investment for families prioritizing both security and convenience in their daily lives and travels.
Car Model Information: 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid Sport
Name: Honda CR-V
Caption: 2023 Honda CR-V e:HEV
Manufacturer: Honda
Aka: Honda Breeze (China, 2019–present)
Production: 1995–present
Class: Compact crossover SUV
BodyStyle: Sport utility vehicle
Layout: Front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout,Front-engine, four-wheel-drive layout
Chassis: Unibody
Predecessor: Honda Crossroad
Successor: Honda ZR-V
Categories: 2000s cars, 2010s cars, 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All articles containing potentially dated statements
Summary: The Honda CR-V (also sold as the Honda Breeze in China since 2019) is a compact crossover SUV manufactured by Japanese automaker Honda since 1995. Initial models of the CR-V were built using the same platform as the Civic.
Honda began producing the CR-V in Sayama, Japan, and Swindon, United Kingdom, for worldwide markets, adding North American manufacturing sites in East Liberty, Ohio, United States, in 2007; El Salto, Jalisco, Mexico, in late 2007 (ended in early 2017); Alliston, Ontario, Canada, in 2012; and Greensburg, Indiana, United States, in February 2017. The CR-V is also produced in Wuhan for the Chinese market by Dongfeng Honda, and also marketed as the Breeze in China for the version produced at Guangzhou by Guangqi Honda.
Honda states that “CR-V” stands for “Comfortable Runabout Vehicle,” while the term “Compact Recreational Vehicle” was used in a British car review article that was republished by Honda, associating the model name with the Sports Utility Vehicle abbreviation of SU-V.
As of 2022, the CR-V is positioned between the smaller ZR-V (marketed as HR-V in North America) — with which the CR-V shares a platform — and the larger North American market Passport/Pilot or the Chinese market Avancier/UR-V. It is currently Honda’s best-selling vehicle in the world, and the second best-selling SUV globally in 2020.
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Brand: Honda Model: CR-V
Price: $28,998 Mileage: 55,051 mi.
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5. **Toyota Highlander**The Toyota Highlander stands out as a preeminent choice for family safety, distinguished by its robust suite of advanced driver-assist technologies and its consistently outstanding crash test performance. A cornerstone of its safety features is Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, which is provided as standard across all trim levels. This comprehensive system is meticulously engineered to enhance driver awareness and proactively help prevent accidents, solidifying the Highlander’s reputation as an exceptionally reliable option for families who place security at the forefront of their vehicle choice.
Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ integrates a formidable array of essential technologies designed to work in harmony to protect occupants. This includes the Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, which can sense potential impacts with vehicles or pedestrians and initiate braking. Lane Tracing Assist actively helps keep the vehicle centered in its lane, while Automatic High Beams intelligently switch between high and low beams for optimal nighttime visibility. Additionally, Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control maintains a safe distance from preceding vehicles, enhancing highway driving safety.
These integrated features continuously monitor the vehicle’s surroundings, alert the driver to potential hazards, and are capable of intervening when necessary to mitigate risks. The Highlander’s impressive safety record is further underscored by its consistent top ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA. These independent assessments confirm its superior ability to protect occupants in the event of a collision, reflecting a meticulous design focused on real-world crash scenarios and occupant protection.
Beyond its core safety capabilities, the Highlander offers additional innovations designed to enhance driver confidence and visibility. An available digital rearview mirror provides a clear, camera-based view of what’s behind the vehicle, effectively eliminating traditional blind spots and improving situational awareness. This innovative feature adds another layer of safety, especially when navigating crowded environments or backing up.
Furthermore, the Highlander excels in both reliability and practicality, boasting a spacious and comfortable interior that effortlessly accommodates families of various sizes. Its thoughtful design ensures ample room for passengers and cargo, making every journey pleasant. Paired with strong engine options and the availability of all-wheel drive, the Highlander delivers a well-rounded driving experience that blends safety, durability, and versatility, making it a top contender for families seeking a secure and dependable SUV for years to come.
Car Model Information: 2013 Toyota Highlander SE
Name: Toyota Highlander
Caption: 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid
Manufacturer: Toyota
Aka: unbulleted list
Production: 2000–present
ModelYears: 2001–present
Class: Mid-size crossover SUV
BodyStyle: SUV
Layout: unbulleted list
Chassis: Unibody
Categories: 2010s cars, 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles written in American English, All articles with dead external links
Summary: The Toyota Highlander, also known as the Toyota Kluger (Japanese: トヨタ・クルーガー, Hepburn: Toyota Kurūgā), is a mid-size crossover SUV with three-row seating produced by Toyota since 2000.
Announced in April 2000 at the New York International Auto Show and arriving in late 2000 in Japan and January 2001 in North America, the Highlander became one of the first car-based mid-size SUV or mid-size crossovers. The Highlander is the crossover counterpart to the more rugged, truck-based mid-size 4Runner and became Toyota’s best-selling SUV before being surpassed by the smaller RAV4 in 2006.
The first-generation model was sold in Japan as the Kluger, which was exclusive to a dealership network called Toyota Netz as a larger alternative to the RAV4. The Kluger nameplate is also used in Australia because “Highlander” is a trademarked trim line name owned by Hyundai. The name is derived from the German word klug, which means smart or clever (Klüger – with diacritics – means “someone who is smarter than another” in German).
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Brand: Toyota Model: Highlander
Price: $15,462 Mileage: 140,110 mi.
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6. **Kia Telluride**The Kia Telluride distinguishes itself not just with its spacious interior and bold design, but significantly with its array of advanced safety features, engineered to provide maximum protection for families on the road. A particularly thoughtful highlight is the Driver Talk system, an ingenious innovation that amplifies the driver’s voice through the rear speakers. This makes communicating with passengers in the far back rows easier and safer, effectively reducing potential driver distractions.
Beyond this unique communication aid, the Telluride is constructed with a rigid body structure, meticulously designed to withstand and dissipate crash forces. This robust framework is complemented by an advanced airbag system, providing comprehensive protection for all occupants in the event of a collision. These foundational safety elements have earned the Telluride the prestigious IIHS Top Safety Pick+ rating, a testament to its superior crashworthiness and prevention capabilities.
Kia’s unwavering commitment to family safety is further evidenced by several crucial safety technologies embedded within the Telluride. The Safe Exit Assist system, for instance, intelligently prevents passengers from inadvertently opening doors into oncoming traffic or cyclists, a common hazard in busy environments. Additionally, the Rear Occupant Alert serves as a vital reminder for drivers to check for children or pets in the back seat before exiting the vehicle, preventing tragic forget-me-nots.
The Telluride truly delivers exceptional value, coupling its competitive pricing with Kia’s industry-leading 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, offering long-term peace of mind. Its spacious and thoughtfully designed cabin ensures ample room for families to travel comfortably, making every journey a luxurious and secure experience. This blend of top-tier safety features, practicality, and a luxurious interior makes the Telluride an outstanding choice for discerning families.
Car Model Information: 2022 Kia Telluride S
Name: Kia Telluride
Caption: 2022 Kia Telluride EX (US)
Manufacturer: Kia
ModelCode: ON
Production: February 2019 – present
ModelYears: 2020–present (North America)
Assembly: West Point, Georgia
Designer: Park Byung-Kyu
Class: Mid-size crossover SUV
BodyStyle: SUV
Layout: unbulleted list
Chassis: Unibody
Related: Hyundai Palisade
Engine: unbulleted list
Transmission: List of Hyundai transmissions#A8LF1,Automatic transmission
Wheelbase: 114.2 in
Abbr: on
Length: 196.9 in
Width: 78.3 in
Height: 68.9 in
Weight: convert
Predecessor: Kia Mohave
Sp: us
Categories: All Wikipedia articles written in American English, Articles with short description, Cars introduced in 2019, Commons category link is on Wikidata, Crossover sport utility vehicles
Summary: The Kia Telluride is a mid-size crossover SUV with three-row seating manufactured and marketed by Kia since 2019. Positioned above the smaller Sorento, the Telluride was previewed as a concept car in 2016, with the production model debuting in early 2019 as a 2020 model. It shares components and specifications with its sister model, the Hyundai Palisade, including its engine, transmission, and wheelbase. Named after the town of Telluride, Colorado, the Telluride is the largest vehicle Kia has manufactured in the United States.
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Brand: Kia Model: Telluride
Price: $33,998 Mileage: 32,140 mi.
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7. **Ford Explorer**The Ford Explorer asserts its dominance in the midsize SUV category through its comprehensive Ford Co-Pilot360 safety suite, a meticulously curated package of advanced driver-assist features. This integrated system is specifically designed to heighten driver awareness and significantly reduce the probability of collisions. It includes essential technologies such as automatic emergency braking, which can automatically apply the brakes to prevent or mitigate frontal impacts.
Furthermore, the Co-Pilot360 suite incorporates blind-spot monitoring, providing crucial alerts about vehicles in unseen areas, and lane-keeping assist, which gently guides the vehicle back into its lane if unintentional drifting occurs. These features operate in concert, instilling greater confidence on the road and establishing the Explorer as a highly reliable option for families who prioritize advanced safety.
The Explorer’s formidable safety reputation is consistently reinforced by high ratings from both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Its performance in stringent crash tests has garnered numerous accolades, clearly demonstrating its superior ability to protect occupants across a range of collision scenarios. A particularly noteworthy innovation is the Evasive Steering Assist, which actively aids drivers in maneuvering around sudden obstacles by providing additional steering support during critical emergency situations, thereby ensuring enhanced control when split-second decisions are paramount.
Beyond its impressive safety credentials, the Ford Explorer excels in performance and versatility, offering a range of powerful engine options. This translates into strong acceleration and robust towing capabilities, making it an ideal companion for both daily commutes and more adventurous family road trips. The spacious cabin is designed to comfortably accommodate passengers and cargo, while its advanced infotainment and connectivity features elevate the overall convenience. By harmoniously blending superior safety, dynamic performance, and comfort, the Explorer undeniably remains a top contender for families seeking a truly well-rounded SUV.
Car Model Information: 2023 Ford Explorer Limited
Name: Ford Explorer
Caption: Sixth-generation Ford Explorer
Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
Production: 1990–present
ModelYears: 1991–present
Class: unbulleted list
Chassis: unbulleted list
Predecessor: Ford Bronco II
Successor: Ford Territory (Australia)
Categories: 2000s cars, 2010s cars, 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles in need of updating
Summary: The Ford Explorer is a range of SUVs manufactured by the Ford Motor Company since the 1991 model year. The first five-door SUV produced by Ford, the Explorer, was introduced as a replacement for the three-door Bronco II. As with the Ford Ranger, the model line derives its name from a trim package previously offered on Ford F-Series pickup trucks. As of 2020, the Explorer became the best-selling SUV in the American market.
Currently in its sixth generation, the Explorer has featured a five-door wagon body style since its 1991 introduction. During the first two generations, the model line included a three-door wagon (directly replacing the Bronco II). The Ford Explorer Sport Trac is a crew-cab mid-size pickup derived from the second-generation Explorer. The fifth and sixth generations of the Explorer have been produced as the Ford Police Interceptor Utility (replacing both the Ford Crown Victoria Police Interceptor and the Ford Police Interceptor Sedan).
The Explorer is slotted between the Ford Edge and Ford Expedition within North America’s current Ford SUV range. The model line has undergone rebadging several times, with Mazda, Mercury, and Lincoln each selling derivative variants. Currently, Lincoln markets a luxury version of the Explorer as the Lincoln Aviator.
For the North American market, the first four generations of the Explorer were produced by Ford at its Louisville Assembly Plant (Louisville, Kentucky) and its now-closed St. Louis Assembly Plant (Hazelwood, Missouri). Ford currently assembles the Explorer alongside the Lincoln Aviator and the Police Interceptor Utility at its Chicago Assembly Plant (Chicago, Illinois).
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Brand: Ford Model: Explorer
Price: $28,999 Mileage: 38,525 mi.
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8. **Volvo XC90**Volvo has steadfastly maintained its reputation as a global leader in automotive safety, consistently pioneering life-saving innovations that have shaped industry standards. The XC90 proudly continues this profound legacy, presenting a remarkably robust suite of advanced safety technologies that solidify its standing as one of the most secure SUVs currently available. With Volvo’s unwavering, decades-long commitment to occupant protection, the XC90 unequivocally sets an exceptionally high benchmark within the midsize luxury SUV segment.
A paramount highlight among the XC90’s extensive safety features is Volvo’s renowned City Safety system. This groundbreaking technology possesses the capability to automatically engage the brakes, proactively preventing or mitigating collisions with various entities, including other vehicles, vulnerable pedestrians, and even large animals. Furthermore, this sophisticated SUV comes comprehensively equipped with advanced driver assistance technologies such as Pilot Assist, an intelligent system that seamlessly integrates adaptive cruise control with lane-keeping assist. This combination significantly enhances highway driving comfort, providing a semi-autonomous experience that simultaneously reduces driver fatigue during extended journeys.
The XC90’s exceptional crash test performance further solidifies its esteemed reputation for unparalleled safety. It has consistently achieved the highest accolades from leading independent safety organizations, including a perfect 5-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Simultaneously, it has earned the coveted Top Safety Pick+ designation from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). These outstanding results are a direct reflection of Volvo’s meticulous and exhaustive approach to designing a vehicle that not only performs admirably but truly excels in real-world crash scenarios, providing verifiable protection.
Beyond these standard-setting safety measures, Volvo has thoughtfully integrated unique and proprietary protective features into the XC90’s architecture. A prime example is the innovative inflatable curtain airbag, specifically engineered to extend downward in the critical event of a rollover, providing crucial head protection for all passengers. Another ingenious addition is the optional airbag strategically positioned between the front seats, meticulously designed to minimize head injuries sustained during severe side impacts. This commitment to both active prevention and passive protection, coupled with its luxurious Scandinavian design, premium materials, and a remarkably refined driving experience, ensures the XC90 is not merely one of the safest SUVs, but also stands as one of the most comprehensively well-rounded choices available in its esteemed class.
Car Model Information: 2018 Volvo XC90 T6 Momentum
Name: Volvo XC90
Caption: 2018 Volvo XC90
Manufacturer: Volvo Cars
Production: 2002–present
Class: Executive car,crossover SUV
BodyStyle: SUV
Layout: ubl
Categories: 2010s cars, 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All articles with dead external links, All articles with unsourced statements
Summary: The Volvo XC90 is a mid-size luxury SUV manufactured and marketed by Volvo Cars since 2002 and now in its second generation.
The first generation was introduced at the 2002 North American International Auto Show and used the Volvo P2 platform shared with the first generation Volvo S80 and other large Volvo cars. It was manufactured at Volvo’s Torslandaverken in Sweden. Volvo moved production equipment of the first generation to China and ended Swedish production at the end of 2014, renaming the car as the Volvo XC Classic (or Volvo XC90 Classic).
At the end of 2014, the second generation XC90 was introduced. It is based on a new global platform, the Scalable Product Architecture (SPA). Both generations of the XC90 have won Motor Trend’s SUV of the Year award in their debuts.
In late 2022, the electric-only EX90 was introduced as the successor of the XC90. However, in September 2024, Volvo launched the second facelift of XC90, and stated that both models would be sold together for the foreseeable future.
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Brand: Volvo Model: XC90
Price: $20,858 Mileage: 90,682 mi.
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9. **Lexus RX**The Lexus RX firmly establishes its position as one of the safest SUVs available, primarily due to its integration of the cutting-edge Lexus Safety System+ 2.5. This advanced, comprehensive suite of driver assistance features is meticulously engineered to provide an unparalleled level of protection for both drivers and passengers. It encompasses the Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, a crucial technology that can sense potential impacts and initiate braking, proactively mitigating risks.
Complementing this, the system also includes Lane Tracing Assist, which actively helps keep the vehicle precisely centered in its lane, and Road Sign Assist, which displays important traffic sign information directly to the driver. Additionally, the All-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control intelligently maintains a safe following distance from other vehicles, dynamically adjusting speed. These sophisticated technologies work in seamless harmony to proactively prevent accidents, ensure unwavering lane stability, and maintain safe distances, collectively offering a heightened level of protection on every journey.
Reinforcing its impressive technological safety, the Lexus RX demonstrates outstanding performance in rigorous crash test evaluations. It has consistently achieved perfect 5-star ratings from both the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), emphatically highlighting its superior crashworthiness. Lexus’s steadfast commitment to safety innovation is strikingly evident in the RX’s meticulously engineered body structure, which is expertly designed to absorb and distribute impact forces with remarkable effectiveness. This ensures maximum occupant protection across a diverse range of collision scenarios, providing tangible peace of mind.
Beyond these fundamental and highly effective safety features, the RX offers unique optional enhancements that further elevate driver confidence and awareness. The available Digital Rearview Mirror, for instance, provides a crystal-clear, camera-based view of what’s behind the vehicle, effectively eliminating traditional blind spots and significantly improving overall situational awareness. Furthermore, the innovative Safe Exit Assist system acts as an intelligent guardian, preventing doors from opening into oncoming traffic or vulnerable cyclists when parked, thereby substantially reducing the risk of unexpected accidents. Coupled with its renowned luxurious interior, exceptionally smooth ride quality, and refined driving dynamics, the Lexus RX masterfully delivers an outstanding balance of safety, comfort, and sophisticated elegance.
Car Model Information: 2018 Lexus RX 350L Premium
Name: Lexus RX
Caption: Lexus RX 500h F Sport Performance (TALH17, Germany)
Manufacturer: Toyota
Aka: Toyota Harrier
Production: December 1997 – present
ModelYears: 1998–present
Class: unbulleted list
BodyStyle: SUV
Layout: unbulleted list
Chassis: Unibody
Successor: unbulleted list
Categories: 2000s cars, 2010s cars, 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles written in American English
Summary: The Lexus RX is a luxury crossover SUV sold since 1998 by Lexus, a luxury division of Toyota. Originally released in its home market of Japan in late 1997 as the Toyota Harrier, export sales began in March 1998 as the Lexus RX. Considered as the first luxury crossover SUV by many sources, five generations of the RX have been produced to date, the first being compact in size, and the latter classified as mid-size. Both front- and four-wheel drive configurations have been used on the RX series, and several gasoline powertrain options, including V6 engines and hybrid systems, have been offered. In the Lexus model lineup, the RX sits below the larger Lexus LX (marketed as the Toyota Land Cruiser body-on-frame SUVs outside North America, respectively), and below the body-on-frame, but also mid-size GX SUV. The name “RX” stands for “Radiant Crossover”. It has also been labelled as “Recreational Cross Country” in some markets. The RX’s current Toyota counterpart is the Highlander/Kluger; past counterparts included the Harrier and Venza. The first-generation RX 300, fitted with a 3.0-liter V6 engine, began sales in 1998. The Japanese market Harrier released in 1997 also offered a 2.2-liter inline-four, later uprated to 2.4 liters. The second-generation RX 300 (3.0-liter V6) and RX 330 (3.3-liter V6) models went on sale in 2003, with both variants supplanted by the more powerful RX 350 (3.5-liter V6) in 2006. Like the previous series, a 2.4-liter inline-four engine was sold alongside the 3.0-liter V6 in the Japanese market Harrier. In 2005, a hybridized gasoline-electric version of the 3.3-liter second-generation model was made available as the RX 400h in export markets and as the Harrier Hybrid in Japan. For the third generation released in 2009, both RX 350 (3.5-liter V6) and RX 450h (3.5-liter V6 hybrid) models were initially offered, with an entry-level RX 270 (2.7-liter inline-four) offered by Lexus in some Asian markets, including in Japan, since 2010. Since the release of the third generation, Japanese sales have occurred under the RX name as opposed to Harrier as had been the case previously. In the fourth generation, a turbocharged (2.0-liter inline-four) RX 200t/300 model was introduced to replace the previous 2.7-liter unit. The RX has been assembled at Toyota Motor Kyushu since launch. The RX and RX Hybrid were the first Lexus models to be built outside Japan, with North American market versions produced at the Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada plant in Cambridge, Ontario beginning 2003 (RX) and expanded in 2014 (RX Hybrid). Hybrid transaxles are built at the Kokura plant in Kitakyushu, Fukuoka since 2009.
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Brand: Lexus Model: RX
Price: $25,883 Mileage: 79,700 mi.
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10. **Volvo XC60**Crowning our list as arguably the safest SUV for families in 2024, the Volvo XC60 proudly extends the brand’s formidable and long-standing legacy of pioneering automotive safety. With an impeccable record of perfect crash test ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA, this midsize luxury SUV not only meets but unequivocally sets the benchmark for occupant protection within its class. Volvo’s globally recognized reputation for developing groundbreaking safety technology is magnificently showcased in the XC60, firmly establishing it as one of the most profoundly secure vehicles available on the road today.
The XC60 is comprehensively equipped with Volvo’s highly acclaimed City Safety system, which encompasses an extensive array of advanced driver assistance features. This includes automatic emergency braking, capable of preventing or mitigating frontal collisions, along with sophisticated lane-keeping assist, blind spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert, all working synergistically to enhance driver awareness and prevent common accidents. What truly distinguishes the XC60, however, are its innovative and proprietary steer assist system, meticulously designed to help drivers actively avoid oncoming collisions, and Volvo’s groundbreaking oncoming mitigation technology, which intelligently detects approaching vehicles and automatically applies the brakes to minimize the severity of an impact. These pioneering features underscore Volvo’s unwavering commitment to proactive accident prevention at the highest level.
In addition to its unimpeachable safety credentials, the XC60 envelops its occupants in a refined and unequivocally luxurious interior. This cabin is characterized by the use of premium materials, meticulously crafted and presented within a sleek, signature Scandinavian design aesthetic. The spacious seating ensures exceptional comfort for all passengers, making long journeys a pleasure. Furthermore, its responsive handling and precise steering combine to deliver a truly engaging and confidence-inspiring driving experience, reflecting Volvo’s holistic approach to vehicle design.
With a versatile choice of powerful turbocharged and efficient hybrid powertrains, the XC60 achieves an admirable balance between exhilarating performance and commendable fuel efficiency. This makes it an ideal family SUV that seamlessly integrates top-tier safety, opulent luxury, and genuine driving pleasure into one cohesive and compelling package. The Volvo XC60 truly embodies the pinnacle of modern automotive safety, offering families peace of mind without compromise.
**Conclusion for the Article**
As we conclude our comprehensive exploration of SUVs equipped with life-saving safety technology, it becomes abundantly clear that modern automotive engineering has made monumental strides in protecting occupants. The vehicles highlighted, from the versatile Hyundai Tucson to the industry-leading Volvo XC60, exemplify a collective dedication to innovation, combining robust structural integrity with advanced driver-assistance systems. These technologies are not merely features; they are vigilant co-pilots, constantly working to prevent accidents, mitigate impacts, and provide an unparalleled sense of security for families.
Car Model Information: 2025 Volvo XC60 B5 Ultra Black Edition
Name: Volvo XC60
Caption: 2018 Volvo XC60 R-Design D5 P-Pulse
Manufacturer: Volvo Cars
Production: 2008–present
Class: Compact crossover SUV
BodyStyle: SUV
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Categories: 2010s cars, 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All articles with unsourced statements, Articles with short description
Summary: The Volvo XC60 is a compact luxury crossover SUV manufactured and marketed by Swedish automaker Volvo Cars since 2008.
The XC60 is part of Volvo’s 60 Series of automobiles, along with the S60, S60 Cross Country, V60, and V60 Cross Country. The first generation model introduced a new style for the 60 Series models. Along with the rest of the line-up, the first-generation XC60 was refreshed in 2013. Similarly, the second-generation model, released in 2017, is the first in the series. The car was named Car of the Year Japan for 2017–2018.
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Brand: Volvo Model: XC60
Price: $50,891 Mileage: 10,959 mi.
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Choosing an SUV today is no longer just about horsepower or cargo space; it’s fundamentally about the sanctuary it provides. The impressive crash test ratings from independent authorities like the IIHS and NHTSA, coupled with sophisticated ADAS like automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and blind spot monitoring, represent a new era of proactive and passive safety. For families navigating the unpredictable nature of our roads, investing in a vehicle that actively cuts accident risks by 50% offers a profound and invaluable peace of mind. These SUVs stand as testament to a future where safety is not just an option, but a meticulously engineered standard for every journey.
