Each year, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) identifies the safest vehicles across various categories based on their performance in rigorous crash tests, safety technology, and headlight ratings. In 2024, numerous vehicles achieved the coveted Top Safety Pick+ designation, which signifies exceptional safety features and protection for occupants. From compact cars to large pickups, here’s a comprehensive look at the top safety picks for 2024, making it easier for drivers to find a vehicle that prioritizes safety.
Small Cars
Small but mighty, these compact cars earned the Top Safety Pick+ distinction by combining high crash test ratings with advanced safety features:
- 2024 Acura Integra (4-door hatchback)
- 2025 Honda Civic (4-door sedan)
- 2024 Mazda 3 (4-door hatchback and sedan)
- 2024 Toyota Prius (4-door hatchback)
These small cars are perfect for city driving, providing a mix of efficiency and top-notch safety in a compact form.
Midsize Cars
Ideal for families and commuters alike, these midsize cars stand out in safety:
- 2024 Honda Accord (4-door sedan)
- 2024 Hyundai Ioniq 6 (4-door sedan)
- 2025 Toyota Camry (4-door sedan)
With advanced crash prevention systems and robust crash test results, these midsize sedans are strong options for those who prioritize safety without compromising comfort and style.
Large Luxury Cars
For those looking to add a touch of luxury without compromising on safety, these large sedans have been rigorously tested and awarded the Top Safety Pick+ rating:
- 2024 Genesis Electrified G80 (4-door sedan)
- 2024 Genesis G80 (4-door sedan) (models built after October 2023)
- 2024 Genesis G90 (4-door sedan) (models built after October 2023)
The Genesis G80 and G90 are renowned for their comfort and high-end features while delivering top-tier safety performance.
Small SUVs
Small SUVs are popular for their versatility and convenience. This year’s top picks showcase exceptional safety:
- 2024 Genesis GV60 (4-door SUV)
- 2024 Honda HR-V (4-door SUV)
- 2024 Hyundai Ioniq 5 (4-door SUV)
- 2024 Hyundai Kona (4-door SUV)
- 2024 Hyundai Tucson (4-door SUV) (models built after March 2024)
- 2024 Mazda CX-30 (4-door SUV)
- 2024 Mazda CX-50 (4-door SUV) (models built after August 2023)
- 2024 Subaru Solterra (4-door SUV)
These small SUVs are perfect for those needing a bit more space and the flexibility to handle both city streets and light off-road terrain, all while maintaining outstanding safety credentials.
Midsize SUVs
The midsize SUV segment offers spacious interiors and a balanced driving experience, making them ideal for families and travelers:
- 2024 Ford Explorer (4-door SUV)
- 2025 Honda Pilot (4-door SUV)
- 2024 Kia Telluride (4-door SUV)
- 2024 Mazda CX-90 and CX-90 PHEV (4-door SUVs)
- 2024 Nissan Pathfinder (4-door SUV) (models built after November 2023)
- 2024 Subaru Ascent (4-door SUV)
With ample room and top safety ratings, these SUVs blend comfort, cargo space, and peace of mind for long journeys.
Midsize Luxury SUVs
Combining luxury with the latest safety technology, these midsize luxury SUVs offer a high-end experience with top safety picks:
- 2024 Acura MDX (4-door SUV)
- 2024 BMW X3 and 2025 BMW X5 (4-door SUVs)
- 2024 Genesis Electrified GV70 (4-door SUV) (models built after April 2024)
- 2025 Genesis GV70 (4-door SUV) (models built after April 2024)
- 2024 Genesis GV80 (4-door SUV) (models built after August 2023)
- 2024 Lexus NX (4-door SUV)
- 2024 Lincoln Nautilus (4-door SUV)
- 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class (4-door SUV) (with optional front crash prevention)
- 2024 Tesla Model Y (4-door SUV)
- 2024 Volvo XC90 (4-door SUV)
These luxury models excel in crash prevention, offer premium comfort, and are equipped with the latest safety advancements.
Large Pickups
For those who need a powerful and capable vehicle without sacrificing safety, this year’s top-rated pickup is:
- 2024 Rivian R1T (crew cab pickup)
The Rivian R1T sets a new standard for safety in the pickup category, combining durability with advanced safety features, proving that large vehicles can still achieve top safety ratings.
Final Thoughts
The 2024 IIHS Top Safety Picks offer a range of choices for every type of driver, from small cars and luxury sedans to versatile SUVs and robust pickups. Safety remains a top priority across all vehicle categories, with each of these Top Safety Pick+ models providing advanced crash protection, effective headlights, and superior crash avoidance technology. Whether you’re looking for efficiency, luxury, or utility, the IIHS list ensures that you can drive with peace of mind, knowing your vehicle meets the highest safety standards available.
Choosing one of these top-rated vehicles means investing in safety for yourself, your passengers, and others on the road. Consider these models when you’re shopping for your next vehicle and experience the latest in automotive safety.
