Choosing the right SUV for your family is about more than just size or performance; it’s about ensuring your loved ones are safe every time you hit the road. Today’s SUVs come equipped with advanced safety features, impeccable crash-test ratings, and thoughtful designs tailored to meet family needs.
From accommodating car seats with ease to offering the latest driver assistance technology, these vehicles are built with your family’s well-being in mind. In this guide, we’ve identified the safest SUVs for families, highlighting their standout model years, advanced safety systems, and practical features.
Whether you’re prioritizing space, affordability, or state-of-the-art technology, this list has you covered. Dive in as we explore options designed to provide you and your family with peace of mind on every journey.
Key Features of a Safe Family SUV
A family SUV must excel in several areas to be considered among the safest:
- Crash-Test Ratings: High scores from NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) and IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety).
- Safety Technology: Features such as automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring are essential.
- Family-Oriented Features: Child-seat compatibility, rear occupant alerts, and spacious interiors.
- Durability: Strong build quality and reliable performance enhance protection.
1. 2024 Toyota Highlander
- Price: Starting at $39,270
- Safety Ratings: 5-star NHTSA; IIHS Top Safety Pick+
- Key Safety Features:
The Highlander is equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, offering an impressive suite of driver-assist technologies, including adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning with pedestrian detection, and lane departure alert with steering assist. It also includes a pre-collision system with low-light cyclist detection and emergency steering assist. - Family Appeal:
The spacious three-row interior can accommodate up to eight passengers, making it ideal for larger families. Its rear-seat reminder system ensures no one is left behind, while the power liftgate eases loading groceries or strollers. - Why It’s Recommended:
The Highlander blends impeccable safety with practicality, offering a quiet ride, ample cargo space, and high reliability.
2. 2024 Honda CR-V
- Price: Starting at $30,850
- Safety Ratings: 5-star NHTSA; IIHS Top Safety Pick+
- Key Safety Features:
The Honda CR-V comes standard with the Honda Sensing Suite, which includes forward collision warning, road departure mitigation, and traffic jam assist. The collision mitigation braking system is especially effective at reducing rear-end collisions, while blind-spot monitoring ensures safer lane changes. - Family Appeal:
This compact SUV surprises with its spacious rear seat area, perfect for car seats. The easy-to-use LATCH system simplifies securing child restraints. Rear climate vents ensure passengers stay comfortable, no matter the season. - Why It’s Recommended:
A blend of affordability, reliability, and high safety scores makes the CR-V a top choice for families who want confidence on the road without overspending.
3. 2024 Mazda CX-50
- Price: Starting at $30,300
- Safety Ratings: 5-star NHTSA; IIHS Top Safety Pick+
- Key Safety Features:
The Mazda CX-50 boasts a suite of i-Activsense safety technologies, such as smart brake support, driver attention alert, and traffic sign recognition. Its blind-spot assist and rear cross-traffic alert offer additional reassurance in urban and suburban environments. - Family Appeal:
This SUV strikes a balance between sporty handling and practicality, with a plush, spacious cabin and premium materials. The panoramic sunroof and ample rear legroom make long family trips enjoyable. - Why It’s Recommended:
For families seeking a stylish, safe, and performance-oriented SUV, the CX-50 offers a perfect blend of aesthetics and utility.
4. 2024 Subaru Ascent
- Price: Starting at $35,395
- Safety Ratings: 5-star NHTSA; IIHS Top Safety Pick+
- Key Safety Features:
Subaru’s EyeSight Driver Assist Technology is standard, including adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, and pre-collision braking. Its driver distraction mitigation system adds another layer of security by monitoring for signs of fatigue or inattention. - Family Appeal:
The Ascent offers a spacious cabin with three-row seating and multiple USB ports, making it family-friendly for tech-savvy households. Its stain-resistant upholstery helps maintain a clean interior with kids or pets on board. - Why It’s Recommended:
Exceptional safety and rugged capability make the Subaru Ascent a versatile choice, whether for daily school runs or weekend adventures.
5. 2025 Kia Telluride
- Price: Starting at $36,190
- Safety Ratings: 5-star NHTSA; IIHS Top Safety Pick+
- Key Safety Features:
Kia’s advanced driver-assist systems include forward collision warning, highway driving assist, and lane following assist. The surround-view monitor offers a 360-degree perspective, perfect for tight parking spaces. - Family Appeal:
With a luxurious cabin, the Telluride is equipped for large families. Its quiet ride, wide rear door openings, and ventilated second-row seats set it apart in terms of comfort. - Why It’s Recommended:
The Telluride remains a standout for families desiring a blend of luxury, safety, and practicality.
6. 2025 Hyundai Palisade
- Price: Starting at $36,800
- Safety Ratings: 5-star NHTSA; IIHS Top Safety Pick+
- Key Safety Features:
Hyundai SmartSense features include parking collision avoidance, blind-view monitoring, and rear occupant alert. Its Safe Exit Assist prevents passengers from exiting the car if a vehicle is approaching. - Family Appeal:
With seating for up to eight, the Palisade offers a refined and spacious interior. A large touchscreen infotainment system keeps everyone entertained, while its hands-free liftgate simplifies errands. - Why It’s Recommended:
The Palisade pairs advanced safety with elegant design, appealing to families who value both form and function.
7. 2024 Ford Explorer
- Price: Starting at $36,860
- Safety Ratings: 5-star NHTSA; IIHS Top Safety Pick
- Key Safety Features:
The Explorer features Ford Co-Pilot360, a comprehensive suite of safety tools, including evasive steering assist, intersection assist, and post-collision braking. - Family Appeal:
Its configurable interior includes power-folding third-row seats, making it easy to adapt for passenger or cargo needs. Tri-zone climate control keeps everyone comfortable. - Why It’s Recommended:
The Ford Explorer offers a compelling mix of power, space, and safety for families with active lifestyles.
Conclusion
The SUVs of 2024 and 2025 raise the bar for family safety, with advanced technology and thoughtful design that cater to modern needs. From compact, budget-friendly options like the Honda CR-V to luxurious, spacious models like the Kia Telluride, there’s a safe SUV for every family. Prioritize your must-have features, and choose a model that provides peace of mind and comfort on every journey.
