For families prioritizing safety and practicality, small SUVs have become an increasingly popular choice. These vehicles offer a blend of maneuverability, fuel efficiency, and ample space, but safety remains a paramount concern for many buyers. When it comes to protecting your loved ones, choosing a vehicle with top-tier safety ratings is crucial. Fortunately, numerous small SUVs excel in crash tests and offer advanced safety features. We’ve compiled a list of ten of the safest small SUVs available, presented in alphabetical order, to help you make an informed decision.
2017 BMW X1
BMW is renowned for its driving performance, but their commitment to safety is equally impressive, as demonstrated by the 2017 BMW X1. While NHTSA hasn’t fully evaluated its crash performance, the X1 achieved top marks in all IIHS crashworthiness tests. To secure the coveted IIHS Top Safety Pick award, equipping it with optional front-collision avoidance features is necessary. Beyond safety, the X1 delivers the engaging driving experience expected from a BMW, though rear passenger and cargo space are somewhat limited. The extensive options list can also escalate the price.
2017 Fiat 500X
Fiat made its return to the American market with the charming 500, and the SUV version, the 2017 FIAT 500X, extends that appeal to a five-seat SUV format. The 500X is more than just attractive styling; it also boasts excellent safety credentials, earning the highest possible “Good” ratings in all IIHS collision evaluations. Although it has been available for a few years, NHTSA has not yet released crash test results for the 500X. Similar to the BMW X1, the FIAT 500X offers an optional collision detection system with automatic braking. Selecting this feature qualifies the 500X for the IIHS Top Safety Pick designation.
2017 Honda CR-V
The 2017 Honda CR-V surpasses the IIHS Top Safety Pick award, achieving the высшую Top Safety Pick Plus accolade. This distinction is reserved for vehicles with exceptional crash test performance, available collision-avoidance technology, and good headlight ratings. It is important to note that collision-avoidance tech and good headlights are optional on the Honda CR-V. The CR-V also excelled in government crash tests, securing a five-star overall rating, including five stars for NHTSA front and side impacts and four stars for rollover resistance, which is typical for SUVs. Beyond its strong safety profile, the CR-V is a highly desirable vehicle known for its spaciousness and pleasant driving dynamics, contributing to its long-standing popularity.
2017 Hyundai Tucson
The redesigned Hyundai Tucson for 2017 offers numerous appealing qualities. This model year features refined styling, a sophisticated interior and exterior, a generous equipment list, and a comfortable driving experience, though the 1.6-liter turbo engine can exhibit slight hesitation. Crucially, the Tucson is also exceptionally safe. It earned a perfect five-star overall rating from NHTSA, with four stars for rollover prevention (common for SUVs), and the highest “Good” rating in all IIHS crash tests. Furthermore, opting for the available collision detection and automatic braking system elevates it to an IIHS Top Safety Pick. If you are considering a small SUV, the new Tucson warrants a test drive.
2017 Kia Sportage
While the styling of the 2017 Kia Sportage may be polarizing, this compact SUV offers considerable merit. Sharing a platform with the praised Hyundai Tucson, the Sportage stands out with potentially superior engine choices. Like the Tucson, it boasts a five-star overall NHTSA rating and an IIHS Top Safety Pick designation when equipped with the optional collision detection and automatic braking system. The Kia Sportage is spacious, comfortable, offers a decent driving experience, and, most importantly, prioritizes safety.
2017 Mazda CX-3
The majority of SUVs on this list are compact models, but we also wanted to include a subcompact option, which brings us to the 2017 Mazda CX-3. Despite its smaller size, the CX-3 matches the safety performance of larger SUVs on this list, achieving a five-star overall NHTSA rating and top scores in all IIHS crash tests. Equipped with the optional collision-mitigation system and upgraded headlights, it earns an IIHS Top Safety Pick Plus rating. The CX-3 is enjoyable to drive but offers limited space. If space is a concern, consider Mazda’s larger CX-5, which also holds a Top Safety Pick Plus rating and includes the collision-mitigation system as standard.
2017 Mitsubishi Outlander
Mitsubishi’s presence in the automotive market has diminished somewhat, with a smaller dealer network and model range. This is unfortunate because the compact 2017 Mitsubishi Outlander is a sensible choice. Its comfortable interior and advanced all-wheel-drive system are commendable, and its safety record is also strong. While it received four stars from NHTSA for front-crash safety, the IIHS awarded it a Top Safety Pick Plus rating when equipped with the optional collision-mitigation system and headlights. We consider the IIHS’s offset-barrier tests to be more representative of real-world collisions than NHTSA’s front barrier crash, giving greater weight to their ratings. The Outlander may be less mainstream, but it deserves consideration.
2017 Nissan Rogue
The 2017 Nissan Rogue has become a popular seller for good reason. It is among the smallest SUVs offering an optional third-row seat, accommodating up to seven passengers, and its upscale interior is impressive for its price point. Safety is another key strength. Similar to the Mitsubishi Outlander, the Rogue received four out of five stars in NHTSA crash tests. However, its strong performance in IIHS offset-deformable barrier tests is more compelling, as these tests more closely simulate real-world crashes. Collision mitigation with automatic braking and adaptive headlights are optional on the Rogue, and when equipped, it earns an IIHS Top Safety Pick Plus rating.
2018 Subaru Forester
Subarus have long been favored by drivers in regions with frequent rain and snow, and the brand’s popularity is expanding thanks to recent marketing efforts. Subaru vehicles are known for their crashworthiness, and the 2018 Subaru Forester exemplifies this, holding a five-star overall NHTSA rating and perfect “Good” scores in all IIHS crash tests. Like several SUVs on this list, the Forester earns an IIHS Top Safety Pick Plus award when equipped with automatic collision braking and adaptive headlights. It’s worth noting that these features may not be available on some early 2017 Forester models.
2017 Toyota RAV4
It is no surprise to see the 2017 Toyota RAV4 on this list. As one of the longest-standing small SUV nameplates, it remains a popular choice for buyers. While many safe SUVs are featured here, the RAV4 has a significant advantage: collision detection and automatic braking are standard features. This, combined with top crash-test scores, earns it an IIHS Top Safety Pick designation without any conditions. Furthermore, optional LED projector headlights with automatic high beams are available, and when equipped, the Toyota RAV4 achieves the highest IIHS Top Safety Pick Plus title.
Conclusion
Choosing the right small SUV for your family involves numerous considerations, and safety should be at the forefront. This list of Top Ten Small Suvs demonstrates that manufacturers are prioritizing occupant protection in this vehicle segment. From the BMW X1 to the Toyota RAV4, these models have proven their safety through rigorous testing and advanced safety technology. When you are in the market for a small SUV, these vehicles represent some of the safest choices available, offering peace of mind for you and your family on the road.
