Safest Cars in 2021

Top Safety Picks

Choosing a safe car is a top priority for many drivers. In 2021, several vehicles stood out for their exceptional safety ratings and features. These vehicles have earned top marks from reputable organizations like the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) and the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration).

Factors Considered in Safety Ratings

Safety ratings are determined by a thorough evaluation of a vehicle’s performance in various crash tests and assessments. Organizations like the IIHS and NHTSA employ rigorous methodologies to analyze a car’s ability to protect occupants in different collision scenarios. Here are some key factors considered in safety ratings⁚

• Crash Tests⁚ These tests simulate real-world collisions and assess a vehicle’s structural integrity, occupant protection, and overall safety performance. Common crash tests include⁚
• Frontal Impact⁚ Evaluates the vehicle’s ability to protect occupants in a head-on collision.
• Side Impact⁚ Assesses the vehicle’s protection in a side-impact collision, often simulating a T-bone crash.
• Roof Strength⁚ Measures the vehicle’s ability to withstand a rollover crash and protect occupants from head injuries.
• Rear Impact⁚ Evaluates the vehicle’s ability to protect occupants in a rear-end collision, focusing on whiplash protection.
• Safety Features⁚ Modern cars are equipped with advanced safety features that can help prevent accidents and mitigate injuries. These features are assessed during safety ratings and include⁚
• Electronic Stability Control (ESC)⁚ Helps maintain control of the vehicle during maneuvers and prevents skidding.
• Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS)⁚ Prevents wheels from locking up during hard braking, allowing for better steering control.
• Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB)⁚ Uses sensors to detect potential collisions and automatically applies the brakes to prevent or mitigate an accident.
• Lane Departure Warning (LDW)⁚ Alerts drivers if the vehicle drifts out of its lane.
• Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM)⁚ Detects vehicles in blind spots and alerts the driver.
• Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)⁚ Maintains a safe distance from the vehicle in front and automatically adjusts speed.
• Safety Technology⁚ The availability and effectiveness of advanced safety technologies are also considered in safety ratings. These technologies include⁚
• Driver Attention Monitoring⁚ Monitors driver alertness and alerts them if signs of fatigue are detected.
• Forward Collision Warning (FCW)⁚ Warns drivers of potential collisions with vehicles ahead.
• Lane Keeping Assist (LKA)⁚ Provides steering assistance to keep the vehicle within its lane.
• Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (RCTA)⁚ Warns drivers of approaching vehicles when reversing.
• Adaptive Headlights⁚ Adjust the headlight beam to illuminate the road more effectively in different driving conditions.

Best Overall Safety

In 2021, several vehicles stood out for their exceptional safety performance, earning top ratings from both the IIHS and the NHTSA. These vehicles offer a comprehensive suite of safety features and have demonstrated exceptional crashworthiness. Here are some of the safest cars in 2021, based on overall safety ratings⁚

• Honda Insight⁚ This hybrid hatchback consistently earned top marks in IIHS crash tests and received a 5-star overall safety rating from NHTSA. Its standard safety features include automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, lane keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control.
• Toyota Camry⁚ The Camry has been a perennial favorite for its reliability and safety. It earned top ratings in IIHS tests and a 5-star overall safety rating from NHTSA. Its standard safety features include automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, lane keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. Higher trim levels offer additional safety features like blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.
• Subaru Impreza⁚ Subaru vehicles are known for their all-wheel drive and robust safety features. The Impreza earned top scores in IIHS tests and a 5-star overall safety rating from NHTSA. Its standard safety features include automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, lane keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. Higher trim levels offer additional safety features like blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.
• Mazda3⁚ The Mazda3 has earned accolades for its stylish design and driving dynamics. It also boasts impressive safety ratings, earning top scores in IIHS tests and a 5-star overall safety rating from NHTSA. Its standard safety features include automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, lane keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. Higher trim levels offer additional safety features like blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.
• Hyundai Sonata⁚ The Sonata has been redesigned in recent years, focusing on safety and technology. It earned top scores in IIHS tests and a 5-star overall safety rating from NHTSA. Its standard safety features include automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, lane keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. Higher trim levels offer additional safety features like blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.

It’s important to note that safety ratings can vary depending on the specific trim level and options chosen. Always refer to the latest safety ratings from independent organizations like IIHS and NHTSA before making a purchase.

Best Safety Features

Beyond overall safety ratings, certain advanced safety features have become increasingly common and are considered essential for modern vehicles. These features can help prevent accidents, mitigate their severity, and enhance driver awareness. Here are some of the best safety features available in 2021 cars⁚

• Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB)⁚ This system uses sensors to detect potential collisions and automatically applies the brakes if the driver doesn’t react in time. AEB can help prevent or reduce the severity of front-end collisions.
• Lane Departure Warning (LDW)⁚ LDW uses cameras or sensors to monitor the vehicle’s position within its lane. It alerts the driver with a warning if the vehicle starts to drift out of its lane without signaling. LDW can help prevent accidents caused by driver inattention or drowsiness.
• Lane Keeping Assist (LKA)⁚ LKA builds on LDW by actively steering the vehicle back into its lane if it detects the driver is drifting. LKA can help prevent accidents caused by driver inattention or drowsiness.
• Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)⁚ ACC helps maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead by automatically adjusting the vehicle’s speed. It can help prevent rear-end collisions and reduce stress during long commutes.
• Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM)⁚ BSM uses sensors to detect vehicles in the driver’s blind spot. It alerts the driver with a visual or audible warning, helping to prevent accidents when changing lanes.
• Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (RCTA)⁚ RCTA uses sensors to detect vehicles approaching from the sides when reversing. It alerts the driver with a visual or audible warning, helping to prevent accidents when backing out of parking spaces or driveways.
• Driver Attention Monitoring⁚ This feature uses sensors to track the driver’s eye movements and steering inputs. It alerts the driver if it detects signs of fatigue or inattention. Driver attention monitoring can help prevent accidents caused by driver drowsiness.
• Automatic High Beam Assist⁚ This system uses sensors to detect oncoming headlights or vehicles ahead. It automatically switches between high and low beams, maximizing visibility while minimizing glare for other drivers.
• Forward Collision Warning (FCW)⁚ This system alerts the driver with a visual or audible warning if it detects a potential collision with a vehicle ahead. FCW provides an early warning to allow the driver to react and avoid an accident.

When evaluating a new car, it’s important to consider the availability of these safety features and their effectiveness. Look for vehicles that offer a comprehensive suite of safety features as standard equipment or as optional upgrades. You can also consult independent safety organizations like IIHS and NHTSA for more detailed information on specific safety features and their performance.

Choosing a safe car is a crucial decision that should not be taken lightly. While overall safety ratings provide a valuable starting point, it’s essential to consider the specific safety features available in each vehicle. The safest cars are those that offer a comprehensive suite of advanced safety features, such as automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, lane keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, driver attention monitoring, automatic high beam assist, and forward collision warning. These features can help prevent accidents, mitigate their severity, and enhance driver awareness.

In 2021, there are numerous vehicles that excel in safety ratings and feature availability. When researching your options, it’s beneficial to consult independent safety organizations like the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) and the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration). They provide detailed information on vehicle safety ratings, specific safety features, and crash test results; Consider the safety features that are most important to you, and choose a vehicle that offers the best combination of overall safety ratings and advanced technology to ensure your safety on the road.

Remember that safety features are just one part of a comprehensive approach to road safety. It’s also crucial to practice safe driving habits, such as maintaining a safe following distance, avoiding distractions, and being aware of your surroundings. By making informed decisions and prioritizing safety, you can significantly reduce your risk of accidents and enjoy a safer driving experience.