Choosing a small SUV involves balancing numerous factors: fuel efficiency, cargo space, technology, and, most importantly, safety. Accidents happen, and selecting a vehicle that prioritizes occupant protection can make all the difference. This article delves into the safest small SUVs available, examining safety features, crash test results, and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) to help you make an informed decision.
Understanding SUV Safety Ratings
Before diving into specific models, it’s crucial to understand how safety ratings are determined. Two primary organizations assess vehicle safety in the United States: the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS)
The IIHS is an independent, non-profit scientific and educational organization dedicated to reducing deaths, injuries, and property damage from motor vehicle crashes through research and evaluation. They conduct several crash tests, including:
- Small overlap front crash test: This test replicates what happens when the front corner of a vehicle strikes another vehicle or an object like a tree or pole.
- Moderate overlap front crash test: This test simulates a head-on collision between two vehicles of similar weight.
- Side impact test: This test evaluates how well a vehicle protects occupants in a side collision with another vehicle.
- Roof strength test: This test measures how much force is required to crush the roof of a vehicle.
- Head restraint and seat test: This test assesses how well the seat and head restraint protect against neck injuries in a rear-end collision.
The IIHS assigns ratings of Good, Acceptable, Marginal, or Poor based on performance in these tests. They also award “Top Safety Pick” and “Top Safety Pick+” designations to vehicles that meet specific criteria, including good crash test results and the availability of advanced safety features.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
NHTSA is a government agency that conducts crash tests and assigns star ratings, from one to five, with five stars being the highest rating. NHTSA’s tests include:
- Frontal crash test: This test simulates a head-on collision between two vehicles.
- Side crash test: This test simulates a vehicle being struck by another vehicle in a side impact.
- Rollover test: This test measures a vehicle’s resistance to rollover.
NHTSA also evaluates safety technologies, such as electronic stability control and rollover prevention systems. While NHTSA ratings are a valuable resource, it’s important to consider them alongside IIHS ratings for a comprehensive understanding of vehicle safety.
Top Contenders for Safest Small SUV
Several small SUVs consistently perform well in safety tests and offer a wide range of advanced safety features. Here are some of the top contenders:
Mazda CX-5
The Mazda CX-5 consistently earns high safety ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA. It boasts a sophisticated suite of standard safety features, including:
- Advanced Smart City Brake Support with Day and Night Pedestrian Detection: This system can automatically apply the brakes to help avoid or mitigate collisions with vehicles or pedestrians.
- Blind Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert: This system alerts the driver to vehicles in their blind spot and warns of approaching traffic when backing up.
- Lane Departure Warning System with Lane-Keep Assist: This system alerts the driver if the vehicle drifts out of its lane and can provide steering assistance to help keep the vehicle in its lane.
- Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go: This system maintains a set speed and distance from the vehicle ahead and can even bring the vehicle to a complete stop and resume driving in stop-and-go traffic.
The CX-5’s excellent crash test results and comprehensive suite of safety features make it a top choice for safety-conscious buyers.
Hyundai Tucson
The Hyundai Tucson has also consistently received high safety marks. Hyundai has made significant investments in safety technology, and the Tucson reflects this commitment. Standard safety features often include:
- Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with Pedestrian Detection: Similar to Mazda’s system, this technology helps prevent or mitigate frontal collisions with vehicles and pedestrians.
- Lane Keeping Assist: Helps keep the vehicle centered in its lane.
- Lane Following Assist: Works in conjunction with adaptive cruise control to help maintain a set distance and keep the vehicle centered in its lane.
- Driver Attention Warning: Monitors the driver’s attention level and provides alerts if signs of fatigue or inattentiveness are detected.
- Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist: Actively helps to avoid a collision by applying the brakes on the opposite side of the vehicle if a vehicle is detected in the blind spot and the driver attempts to change lanes.
- Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist: Can automatically apply the brakes to avoid a collision while backing up if cross-traffic is detected.
The Tucson’s strong safety performance and generous standard safety features make it a compelling option.
Subaru Forester
The Subaru Forester is another perennial favorite when it comes to safety. Subaru’s commitment to safety is evident in the Forester’s standard equipment, which typically includes:
- EyeSight Driver Assist Technology: This suite of features includes adaptive cruise control, pre-collision braking, lane departure and sway warning, and lane keep assist.
- Automatic Emergency Steering: Helps the driver avoid collisions by providing automatic steering assistance in certain situations.
- Reverse Automatic Braking: Can automatically apply the brakes when reversing if an obstacle is detected.
- Blind-Spot Detection with Lane Change Assist and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert: Provides alerts for vehicles in blind spots and approaching traffic when changing lanes or backing up.
The Forester’s standard all-wheel drive and robust safety features contribute to its reputation as a safe and reliable SUV.
Nissan Rogue
The Nissan Rogue has made significant improvements in safety in recent years. It typically offers a comprehensive suite of safety technologies, including:
- ProPILOT Assist: This system combines adaptive cruise control with lane keep assist to provide semi-autonomous driving assistance.
- Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection: Helps prevent or mitigate frontal collisions with vehicles and pedestrians.
- Blind Spot Warning with Rear Cross Traffic Alert: Alerts the driver to vehicles in their blind spot and warns of approaching traffic when backing up.
- Lane Departure Warning: Alerts the driver if the vehicle drifts out of its lane.
- Intelligent Around View Monitor: Provides a 360-degree view of the vehicle’s surroundings, making it easier to park and maneuver in tight spaces.
The Rogue’s advanced safety features and improved crash test performance make it a worthy contender in the safe small SUV segment.
Honda CR-V
The Honda CR-V is a popular choice for its practicality and reliability, and it also excels in safety. It typically comes standard with:
- Honda Sensing Suite: This suite of safety features includes adaptive cruise control, collision mitigation braking system, lane keeping assist system, and road departure mitigation system.
- Blind Spot Information System with Cross Traffic Monitor: Alerts the driver to vehicles in their blind spot and warns of approaching traffic when backing up.
- Multi-Angle Rearview Camera: Provides multiple views of the area behind the vehicle, making it easier to park and maneuver.
The CR-V’s strong safety record and well-rounded performance make it a consistently popular choice for families.
Key Safety Features to Consider
Beyond overall safety ratings, consider specific safety features when choosing a small SUV. Here are some of the most important:
Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS)
ADAS technologies can help prevent accidents and mitigate their severity. Look for features such as:
- Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB): This system can automatically apply the brakes to help avoid or mitigate a collision.
- Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Lane Keeping Assist (LKA): These systems warn the driver if the vehicle drifts out of its lane and can provide steering assistance to help keep the vehicle in its lane.
- Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM) with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (RCTA): These systems alert the driver to vehicles in their blind spot and warn of approaching traffic when backing up.
- Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC): This system maintains a set speed and distance from the vehicle ahead.
Crashworthiness
Evaluate how well a vehicle protects occupants in the event of a crash. Look for good ratings in IIHS and NHTSA crash tests.
Airbags
Ensure the vehicle has a comprehensive airbag system, including front, side, and curtain airbags.
Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
ESC helps prevent skidding and loss of control by automatically applying the brakes to individual wheels.
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
TPMS alerts the driver when tire pressure is low, which can improve safety and fuel efficiency.
Beyond Safety Features: Other Important Factors
While safety is paramount, other factors also play a role in choosing the right small SUV.
Reliability
A reliable vehicle is less likely to break down, potentially stranding you in a dangerous situation. Consider reliability ratings from reputable sources like J.D. Power and Consumer Reports.
Visibility
Good visibility is crucial for safe driving. Look for a vehicle with large windows and minimal blind spots.
Handling
A vehicle with good handling is more responsive and easier to control in emergency situations.
Maintenance
Consider the cost of maintenance and repairs when choosing a small SUV. Some vehicles are more expensive to maintain than others.
Making the Right Choice
Choosing the safest small SUV requires careful research and consideration. Start by reviewing safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA. Then, consider the specific safety features that are most important to you. Finally, test drive several models to see which one feels the most comfortable and confidence-inspiring. Remember to prioritize safety, but also consider other factors such as reliability, fuel efficiency, and cargo space to find the perfect small SUV for your needs. Prioritize vehicles with advanced driver-assistance systems and excellent crash test scores.
Ultimately, the safest small SUV is the one that best protects you and your passengers in the event of a collision while also offering the features and performance you need. Don’t hesitate to consult with automotive experts or trusted mechanics for additional guidance. Investing in a safe vehicle is an investment in your well-being.
What are the key safety features I should look for in a small SUV?
Modern small SUVs often come equipped with a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) that significantly enhance safety. Prioritize features like automatic emergency braking (AEB) with pedestrian detection, lane departure warning with lane keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. These technologies actively help prevent accidents and mitigate their severity if one occurs.
Beyond ADAS, consider structural safety features like a robust safety cage, ample airbags (including side curtain airbags), and strong crash test ratings from reputable organizations like the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). A well-designed safety structure provides crucial protection in the event of a collision.
How do crash test ratings factor into determining the safest small SUV?
Crash test ratings from organizations like the IIHS and NHTSA are crucial indicators of a vehicle’s ability to protect occupants in various collision scenarios. The IIHS uses ratings like “Good,” “Acceptable,” “Marginal,” and “Poor,” while NHTSA assigns star ratings (out of five). Focus on SUVs that consistently achieve top marks in these tests, particularly in categories like driver-side small overlap front, passenger-side small overlap front, and side impact.
Pay close attention to the specifics of each test and rating. A vehicle might perform well overall but struggle in a specific area, such as protecting the driver’s lower leg in a small overlap test. By carefully reviewing the details of these reports, you can gain a more comprehensive understanding of a vehicle’s crashworthiness and its ability to keep you and your passengers safe.
Are there specific small SUV models consistently recognized for their superior safety performance?
Several small SUVs consistently rank high in safety ratings year after year, indicating a strong commitment to occupant protection. Models like the Subaru Forester, Mazda CX-5, and Honda CR-V are frequently recognized for their excellent crash test scores and comprehensive suite of standard safety features. These vehicles often achieve “Top Safety Pick+” awards from the IIHS, signifying exceptional performance in various safety evaluations.
It’s essential to consider that safety technology and vehicle designs evolve. Therefore, always check the latest crash test ratings and safety feature availability for the specific model year you are considering. While past performance is a good indicator, staying informed about the most recent data ensures you’re making an informed decision based on current safety standards.
What’s the difference between active and passive safety features in a small SUV?
Active safety features are technologies designed to help prevent accidents from occurring in the first place. These include systems like electronic stability control (ESC), anti-lock braking system (ABS), traction control, and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning. These features actively monitor the driving environment and intervene to help the driver maintain control and avoid collisions.
Passive safety features, on the other hand, are designed to minimize injuries in the event that a collision does occur. These features include airbags, seatbelts, a reinforced safety cage, and crumple zones designed to absorb impact energy. Passive safety systems work to protect occupants by reducing the forces experienced during a crash and preventing ejection from the vehicle.
How important is it for a small SUV to have good visibility for the driver?
Excellent visibility is crucial for safe driving in any vehicle, including small SUVs. A vehicle with large windows, minimal blind spots, and a high seating position allows the driver to have a clear view of their surroundings. This improved visibility enables the driver to anticipate potential hazards, react quickly, and make informed decisions, ultimately reducing the risk of accidents.
Features that enhance visibility, such as blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and rearview cameras, are also valuable. However, these electronic aids should complement, not replace, good natural visibility. Consider factors like the size and shape of the windows, the placement of the mirrors, and the overall design of the vehicle when evaluating visibility.
Beyond crash tests and safety features, what other factors should I consider when evaluating the safety of a small SUV?
Maintenance plays a vital role in ensuring the continued safety of any vehicle. Regular maintenance, including tire pressure checks, brake inspections, and fluid top-offs, helps keep all safety systems functioning optimally. Neglecting maintenance can compromise the effectiveness of even the most advanced safety features.
Consider the vehicle’s reliability and repair costs. A reliable SUV is less likely to experience mechanical failures that could lead to accidents. Furthermore, affordable repair costs make it more likely that safety-related components will be promptly addressed if they require attention.
Do smaller SUVs offer the same level of safety as larger SUVs?
While larger SUVs often have a perceived advantage in terms of size and weight, modern small SUVs can offer comparable levels of safety. Advances in vehicle engineering, safety technology, and crash testing have enabled manufacturers to design smaller SUVs that provide excellent occupant protection. Many small SUVs now achieve top safety ratings from independent testing organizations.
The key is to focus on the specific safety features, crash test ratings, and overall design of each vehicle rather than solely relying on size as a safety indicator. A well-designed small SUV with a robust safety cage, ample airbags, and advanced driver-assistance systems can offer a high level of protection in the event of a collision.