If you’re in the market for a new vehicle, you’re undoubtedly looking out for one of the safest cars around – particularly if you’re searching for a family upgrade. Driving is great for so many reasons that we hardly need list here, but accidents can still happen. Consequentially, getting behind the wheel of a vehicle that you trust can help ease any concerns you may have.
As vehicular technology has improved, the safety of cars has also risen – some are even sophisticated enough to prevent accidents from happening in the first place. Euro NCAP (European New Car Assessment Programme) is an independent organisation that crash-tests new cars, using a star rating to each model depending on its safety. Factors like child protection, adult protection, safety assist systems, and vulnerable road-user protection are all considered. That way, consumers have the ability to gauge which are the safest cars independently of brand marketing.
We’ve put together a list of the top 10 safest cars according to their tests – read on to find out more.
The safest cars: Euro NCAP rated
Every two years, the Euro NCAP toughen up their testing, in order to ensure that the process is as robust as possible. To date, only nine cars have been tested in 2021 – and only seven rank five-star for safety. As such, the top 10 safest cars ranked below are a combination of 2021 and 2020 tested vehicles.
Don’t worry though, 2020 results are directly comparable to 2021 results – in 2020, the organisation introduced a new series of stringent safety tests which have also rolled over to 2021 testing. The same guidelines will continue to be implemented into 2022 – in 2023, the organisation will introduce updates.
Let’s take a look at the safest cars in 2021 and 2020 as ranked by the Euro NCAP.
1. Polestar 2
This electric car – the second of Polestar’s – ranked consistently for safety across the board, making it the safest car in 2021. Scoring an 86% in the safety assists category, 89% in child protection, and 80% in vulnerable road-user protection, it was near-perfect in adult safety at 93%. The car itself is fairly pricey – but you’re paying for safety. What’s more, its safety will only improve through technology. This is because the car will automatically update via over-the-air software as it progresses. The model also boasts a high-tech cabin and has a significant range for an EV – great for those long-distance UK holidays.
2. VW ID.4
Another electric vehicle, the VW ID.4 is practical for families (it’s a 5-door SUV), and its high-tech safety systems – including a hazard warning system – earned it an 85% in safety assist. Plentiful airbags and a sturdy design offer further safety – it beat out its sister car the ID.3 in testing to earn second place in 2021’s safest cars.
3. Skoda Enyaq
Unless you’re a real motorhead, you’d be hard-pressed to tell the difference between this and the ID.4 – but the latter beat the Enyaq slightly in safety tests. 5% was lost in protecting vulnerable road-users (although it’s still a respectable 71%). In addition, it earned 94% on adult occupant safety rating. It’s also got plenty of space for families – so you don’t have to compromise safety for luggage space.
4. Cupra Formentor
If you’re on the hunt for a sports SUV that’s safe but still super fun to drive, the Cupra Formentor might just be for you. It boasts a dearth of cutting-edge safety kit – including automatic emergency braking to help mitigate road accidents. Even better, it achieved the second highest score for adult occupant protection at 93%.
5. Genesis G80
Slightly smaller than the Genesis GV80 SUV (listed below), this car nonetheless hit a five-star score for safety, with 91% for adult occupants and 87% for child. It also boasts an impressive suite of safety systems. As well as AEB through to speed assistance, there is also an active bonnet that works to cushion passengers in any emergency. At under £38,000, it’s also reasonably priced for a four-door saloon.
6. Genesis GV80
If you have a larger family – or are upgrading your vehicle for maximum space – this is undoubtedly one of the safest cars out there. Head, chest, and centre airbags ensure top marks for protection. Moreover, it secured 91% for adult protection and 87% for child protection scores.
7. VW ID.3
A sister to the ID.3 above, this VW is another electric family hatchback. Safety technology includes an advanced e-Call system, as well as land assist and speed assistance systems, earning the ID.3 an 88% in safety assist score. At 87% for adult occupant and 89% for child occupant, it’s a very sturdy option for any family.
8. Seat Leon
A firm family favourite, you’ll be pleased to hear that the Seat Leon scored five-stars for safety. Great to drive, plenty of space, and reasonably priced, this car will also keep you and yours safe. At 92% on adult occupant safety and 88% on child occupant safety, you can get behind the wheel knowing you’re well covered.
9. Honda Jazz
This car is great for nipping around more urban areas, as it is slightly smaller. It’s still one of the safest cars, however, scoring 87% for adult occupant and 83% for child occupant protection. Safety systems include AEB and one of the highest scores for pedestrian protection – matching only the Polestar 2.
10. Toyota Yaris
Toyota’s Safety Sense technology is a particular winner here, helping the Yaris snag an 85% on safety assist score. It may be small, but it’s still pretty mighty. In particular, it has a shape that’s designed to weather crashes well, and an 86% score for adult occupants and 81% for child. Plus, it’s still a five-door hatchback – so there shouldn’t be any irritated crawling over each other as the kids pile in.
Questions? Talk to My Car Credit today
If you’re looking to upgrade to one of the safest cars, chances are you’ll have a number of questions – not least ‘can I afford to buy a car’? My Car Credit is on hand to help with any queries you might have about car finance to fund your purchase.
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