When you get in a car, you put your trust in it to keep you safe. Safety is important whether it’s a lengthy highway drive or a quick trip to the supermarket. That’s why experts work hard to test how well different cars can handle crashes and protect people inside. They also check whether high-tech features, like automatic emergency braking, actually work. As car technology continues to improve, so does the effort to make every ride safer for everyone on the road.
Some of the Best Cars That Have These Safety Features
Before diving into some of the best cars that have advanced technology, it’s good to get some context. The NHTSA, a part of the Department of Transportation, has a program called the New Car Assessment Program (NCAP). NCAP gives vehicles safety ratings. It all starts with NHTSA choosing a range of new vehicles each year. They put them through several crash tests, and then give them star ratings, from one to five stars. A five-star rating is the safest, and a one-star is the least safe.
These ratings show how well vehicles will protect people in a crash. NHTSA also checks if some advanced driver assistance technologies (ADAS) work correctly. This includes autonomous emergency braking, forward collision alerts, and lane departure warnings. The purpose of these features is to assist drivers in preventing collisions.
Understanding NHTSA 2025 Crash Tests
The NHTSA 2025 crash tests aren’t only about handing out star ratings. They are also meant to motivate vehicle manufacturers to make vehicles safer. It also pushes automakers to include new safety technologies in more models.
It all plays a big part in lowering deaths and injuries. The NHTSA 2025 crash tests align with the DOT’s National Roadway Safety Strategy, a plan to lower deaths and serious injuries on roads.
Vehicles for the 2025 Model Year
NHTSA picked thirty-seven vehicles for testing in 2025. The vehicles picked, and those tested before without major changes, represent about 87% of new vehicles. This gives car buyers a broad view of safety. Some of the vehicles selected for the NHTSA 2025 5 star ratings includes:
- Audi Q6 e-tron EV: SUV
- BMW X3: SUV
- Cadillac CT5 with V6: 4 DR
- Cadillac Escalade: SUV
- Chevrolet Equinox: SUV
- Chevrolet Silverado EV
- Ford Expedition
- Ford Transit Wagon—Low and Medium Roof
- Genesis GV80
- Hyundai Palisade
- Hyundai Tucson
- Jeep Gladiator
- Jeep Wrangler 4-Door 4xe PHEV
- Kia K4
- Kia Niro Hybrid
- Lexus NX 350
- Lincoln Nautilus
- Mazda CX-70 Hybrid
- Mazda CX-70 PHEV
- Mitsubishi Outlander
- Nissan Frontier Crew Cab
- Nissan Murano
- Ram Ram 1500 Crew Cab
- Ram Ram 1500 Quad Cab
- Subaru Forester
- Toyota 4Runner
- Toyota Camry Hybrid
- Toyota Corolla
- Volkswagen Tiguan
What Safety Features Do These 5 Star Rated Cars Have?
Most of the vehicles selected for NHTSA’s 2025 safety testing come equipped with a wide range of standard safety features. These include front and side airbags, anti-lock braking systems (ABS), and electronic stability control. Many also offer advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) like lane departure warnings, blind spot detection, forward collision warnings, and automatic emergency braking. Features such as rear view cameras, adaptive cruise control, and pedestrian detection are also becoming more common. These technologies work together to reduce the risk of crashes and protect everyone inside the vehicle in the event of an accident.
Addressing Common Concerns
Now you’re familiar with NHTSA 2025 crash tests, you might have a few questions.
How Realistic Are the NHTSA Crash Tests?
NHTSA uses specific scenarios to test vehicles. It would be impossible for them to cover every type of accident that might happen. The tests are designed to enhance consumer’s understanding of vehicle safety.
It’s a base, rather than an all-in-one measure. Although they are only meant for basic and more common occurrences on the roadways, NHTSA works hard to evolve the agency and evolve the testing too, keeping current. The agency is constantly evolving and improving its testing methodologies.
Why Do These Tests Matter for Car Buyers?
NHTSA ratings can be a solid guide to look at before picking out a vehicle. But these scores shouldn’t be your only focus. You should think about what you value, such as safety tech, fuel efficiency and reliability. Consider your daily driving requirements to determine which vehicle you are planning on choosing. These ratings provide valuable insights for potential car buyers.
Summary
Choosing a safe car is one of the smartest decisions you can make. Every feature that helps prevent a crash or protect you in one can make a real difference. That’s why looking at safety ratings and features is worth your time. They give you a clearer picture of how a vehicle might perform in tough situations. As technology improves, more vehicles come with tools that help drivers stay alert and avoid danger. Whether you’re buying your first car or upgrading your current one, safety should always be a top priority.
