Top 10 Safest SUVs in 2025 (Plus 2 That Never Put You In Danger)
Buckle up, folks, because safety isn’t just a buzzword; it’s the VIP ticket to peace of mind on the road! In 2025, SUVs are stepping up their game, blending rugged charm with cutting-edge protection that’d make a tank jealous.
We’ve scoured the crash-test data from the IIHS and NHTSA, plus real-world insights, to bring you the top 12 safest SUVs you can snag this year.
1. Mazda CX-30
Picture this: a subcompact SUV that dances through corners like a ballerina but guards you like a bouncer at an exclusive club. The 2025 Mazda CX-30 nails it with an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ and a five-star NHTSA rating.
Its sleek frame hides a fortress of airbags and a pedestrian-dodging system that’s sharper than a hawk’s eye. Agility meets armor here—standard all-wheel drive keeps it glued to the road, while the crash avoidance tech practically says, “Not today, trouble!”
Affordable, stylish, and safer than a vault, this Mazda’s a steal for thrill-seekers who value their hide.
2. Subaru Forester
Ever wonder what happens when practicality gets a black belt in safety? Meet the 2025 Subaru Forester! Freshly redesigned, it’s earned a five-star NHTSA nod and an IIHS Top Safety Pick, proving it’s more than just a grocery-getter.
With EyeSight tech that spots hazards faster than a nosy neighbor, plus a beefed-up structure, this midsize marvel laughs off danger. All-wheel drive is standard, so rain or shine, it’s got your back.
It’s the SUV equivalent of a loyal dog—always there, always protective.
3. Hyundai Tucson
Zoom into the future with the 2025 Hyundai Tucson, a crossover that’s got safety wrapped up tighter than a burrito. Sporting an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ and a five-star NHTSA score, it’s loaded with goodies like Smart Cruise Control 2 and blind-spot wizardry.
This isn’t just a ride—it’s a rolling safety seminar. Updated for 2025, it blends hybrid options with a cabin that’s comfier than your favorite recliner. For families or solo adventurers, it’s a budget-friendly shield against the chaos of the road.
4. Kia Telluride
Big, bold, and built like a brick house, the 2025 Kia Telluride struts onto the scene with its rating. This three-row titan isn’t messing around when it comes to keeping your posse safe.
Its driver-assist suite is like having a co-pilot who never sleeps—lane-keeping, auto-braking, the works. Roomy enough for the whole gang and plush enough to pamper, it’s the SUV that says, “Crash? What crash?” with a confident wink.
5. Ford Mustang Mach-E
Electric dreams meet safety screams with the 2025 Ford Mustang Mach-E! This EV powerhouse snagged an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ and a five-star NHTSA rating, proving green can also mean mean (in a protective way, of course).
BlueCruise hands-free driving keeps you centered on highways, while sensors galore dodge trouble like a ninja. It’s fast, it’s fun, and it’s got more safety tech than a sci-fi flick. Who says saving the planet can’t come with a thrill?
6. Honda HR-V
Small but mighty, the 2025 Honda HR-V struts its stuff with an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ and a five-star NHTSA badge. This subcompact champ proves you don’t need bulk to pack a safety punch.
With collision avoidance that’s sharper than a chef’s knife and a frame built to take a hit, it’s a budget-friendly fortress. Perfect for city slickers or weekend warriors, the HR-V keeps you safe without cramping your style—or your wallet.
7. Toyota Highlander
Say hello to the 2025 Toyota Highlander, where family-friendly meets crash-defiant! It’s rocking a five-star NHTSA rating and a past IIHS Top Safety Pick+, making it a trusty steed for your brood.
Safety Sense 3.0 is like a guardian angel with radar—braking, steering, watching. Three rows of seating mean everyone’s along for the ride, and its sturdy build shrugs off danger like it’s no big deal.
Reliability? Check. Safety? Double check.
8. Volvo XC90
Cue the safety spotlight: the 2025 Volvo XC90 rolls in with an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ and a five-star NHTSA score. Volvo’s been the poster child for protection since seatbelts were cool, and this luxury midsizer keeps the streak alive.
From auto-braking to a cage that’d make a bear jealous, it’s a plush bunker on wheels. Sure, the infotainment’s a puzzle, but when it comes to crashes, this Swede’s got more tricks up its sleeve than a magician at a kids’ party.
9. Hyundai Palisade
Craving a three-row ride that’s safer than a padded cell? The 2025 Hyundai Palisade delivers with a five-star NHTSA rating and an IIHS Top Safety Pick. It’s the family hauler that doubles as a fortress.
Loaded with tech—think surround-view cameras and parking sensors—it’s like having eyes in the back of your head (and sides). Spacious, refined, and wallet-friendly, this SUV’s proof you can go big without going broke—or busted.
10. Mazda CX-50
Adventure calls, and the 2025 Mazda CX-50 answers with safety rating. This compact crossover’s got the soul of a sports car and the shield of a knight.
Standard AWD grips like a bear hug, while crash avoidance tech keeps threats at bay. It’s rugged yet refined, perfect for dodging potholes or pedestrians with equal flair.
Safety and style? Mazda’s serving both on a silver platter.
11. Subaru Solterra
Electric vibes meet safety jives with the 2025 Subaru Solterra, the only Subie rocking an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ for 2025 (so far). Add a five-star NHTSA rating, and this EV’s a green machine with a mean protective streak.
EyeSight’s got your six, spotting trouble in rain or dark. All-wheel drive keeps it steady, and a recent price drop makes it a steal. It’s the eco-warrior’s dream ride—safe, silent, and seriously cool.
12. Audi Q7
Luxury lovers, rejoice—the 2025 Audi Q7 blends posh with protection, earning its place in safety spotlight. This three-row beaut proves you can pamper and shield at the same time.
Adaptive cruise, 360 cameras, and a frame tougher than a linebacker make it a rolling sanctuary. Sure, the third row’s snug, but the safety suite’s so slick, you’ll forgive the squeeze.
Premium price, premium peace of mind—worth it.