When looking for the safest small crossover/SUV, it's important to consider ratings from both the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). These organizations conduct rigorous crash tests and evaluate safety features.
Several small SUVs have received top safety awards for 2025:
IIHS Top Safety Pick+ (the highest award):
* Genesis GV60
* Honda HR-V
* Hyundai Ioniq 5
* Hyundai Kona
* Hyundai Tucson
* Mazda CX-30
* Mazda CX-50
* Subaru Solterra
* Toyota bZ4X (applies only to vehicles built after December 2024)
IIHS Top Safety Pick (still excellent, but with slightly lower ratings in some specific tests):
* Subaru Forester (other than the Wilderness trim)
SUVs with 5-Star Overall Safety Ratings from NHTSA:
Many of the small SUVs listed above also achieve a 5-star overall rating from NHTSA, including the Honda HR-V, Hyundai Tucson, and Mazda CX-30. Other vehicles such as the Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain have also received 5-star overall ratings from NHTSA.
According to iSeeCars, the Mazda CX-50 non-hybrid/electric is the safest small and compact SUV, earning a perfect 10 out of 10 score based on their analysis of NHTSA and IIHS crash test ratings. The Mazda CX-5 is also noted for its strong safety ratings.
Other small SUVs frequently mentioned for their safety in 2025 include:
* Honda CR-V: This model is recognized for its practicality, efficiency, and safety, with the hybrid version boasting one of the best safety ratings in its class.
* Toyota RAV4: The RAV4 is a popular choice known for its practicality, safety, and reliability. The RAV4 Hybrid also delivers exceptional fuel economy and maintains strong safety.
* Subaru Forester: The Forester is highlighted as a safe, reliable, and capable SUV, with high owner satisfaction and good reliability scores.
* Kia Sportage: The Sportage and its hybrid variant offer impressive tech, value, and good safety features.
* Hyundai Tucson: This model offers increased safety features and has earned both a five-star NHTSA rating and an IIHS Top Safety Pick+.
When making your decision, it's always recommended to check the most current safety ratings for the specific trim and model year you are considering, as ratings can sometimes vary.