These Cars Perform the Best in Crash-Tests

When it comes to cars, it’s easy to get swept up by sleek curves, powerful engines, and the promise of 0-60 glory. But when real life happens, complete with distracted drivers, sudden stops, and the occasional deer with a death wish, what truly matters is how well your car can handle a collision. This is where crash tests come in, separating the flashy from the fortified.

Every year, the crash-test gauntlet pits the latest automotive designs against the harsh laws of physics, throwing them headlong into barriers, poles, and each other, all in the name of safety. The results can be as brutal as a fender bender in rush hour or as inspiring as an airbag deploying in perfect harmony. The stars of this crash-test stage are the models that manage to protect their occupants without turning into metal origami, proving their worth in a world that’s anything but bumper-car friendly.

In this roundup, we’ll spotlight the automotive A-listers that not only shine in safety but also leave you with enough peace of mind to actually enjoy the drive. Buckle up as we dive into the crumple zones, high-strength steel, and clever tech that make these cars the unsung heroes of the highway.

Tesla Model Y

Tesla Model Y

The Tesla Model Y isn't just a tech lover’s dream on wheels, it’s also a fortress in a fender bender. This all-electric SUV consistently earns top marks in crash tests, thanks to its low center of gravity (thank you, battery pack!), rigid structure, and advanced safety tech.

The Model Y’s front and side crash ratings are stellar, and its Autopilot features can even help you avoid accidents altogether. Plus, with features like automatic emergency braking and collision warning, it’s the car equivalent of a friend who grabs your sleeve before you accidentally walk into traffic.

It’s fast, it’s smart, and it’s got your back, literally and figuratively.

(Image via Tesla)

Tesla Model 3

Tesla Model 3

The Tesla Model 3 isn’t just a sleek, all-electric commuter, it’s also a crash-test all-star. With a sturdy frame, low center of gravity, and some of the most advanced driver-assistance tech in the game, it’s built to protect. In crash tests, the Model 3 has shown impressive resilience, earning high marks for both front and side impacts.

Its battery pack, nestled low in the chassis, helps prevent rollovers while adding a rigid foundation. Plus, features like automatic emergency braking and forward collision warning work together like a hyper-aware co-pilot, catching trouble before it catches you. All that, and it’s still one of the quickest, cleanest ways to get from zero to 60.

(Image via Tesla)

Tesla Model X

Tesla Model X

The Tesla Model X is a head-turner with its falcon-wing doors and sci-fi vibe, but it’s also a serious safety standout. This electric SUV boasts a rock-solid structure and a low center of gravity, thanks to its hefty battery pack, making it less prone to rollovers, a common SUV downfall.

In crash tests, the Model X has earned high marks for front, side, and rollover protection, thanks to its robust aluminum and steel frame. It also comes packed with advanced safety tech, like collision avoidance and automatic emergency braking, designed to steer you to safety.

(Image via Tesla)

Tesla Model S

 Tesla Model S

The Tesla Model S isn’t just a performance beast, it’s also a fortress on wheels. Known for its jaw-dropping acceleration and sleek design, this luxury sedan has also earned high marks in crash tests. Its low center of gravity, thanks to the under-floor battery pack, provides exceptional stability and reduces rollover risk.

The Model S’s frame is a blend of aluminum and high-strength steel, engineered to absorb impacts while protecting passengers. With features like automatic emergency braking, collision warning, and a suite of smart driver-assist tech, it’s like having a safety net at 70 mph. It’s fast, futuristic, and fiercely protective, a true standout in both speed and safety.

(Image via Tesla)

Tesla Cybertruck

Tesla Cybertruck

The Tesla Cybertruck is as tough as it looks, maybe tougher. With its angular, stainless steel exoskeleton and armored glass (well, mostly), this electric beast is designed to take a hit and keep on rolling. Its ultra-hard 30X cold-rolled stainless steel body resists dents and damage, while the battery pack’s low placement provides a stable, rollover-resistant platform.

In crash tests, it’s expected to perform like a tank, thanks to its rigid structure and crumple zones engineered to absorb impact energy. Plus, with Tesla’s suite of safety features like automatic emergency braking and collision warning, the Cybertruck is both brawny and brainy. It’s like driving a concept car from a sci-fi blockbuster, minus the CGI.

(Image via Tesla)

Mazda CX-30

Mazda CX-30

The Mazda CX-30 is proof that small SUVs can pack a serious safety punch. With its high-strength steel frame and advanced airbag system, this compact crossover has earned top crash-test ratings, making it one of the safest picks in its class.

Its i-Activsense suite includes smart tech like automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring, turning the CX-30 into a watchful co-pilot.

Plus, the CX-30’s responsive handling and low center of gravity give it an edge in accident avoidance, helping you dodge trouble before the crumple zones even get involved. It’s stylish, sporty, and surprisingly tough, a reminder that safety can come in small, sharp-looking packages.

(Image via Mazda)

Lincoln Nautilus

Lincoln Nautilus

The Lincoln Nautilus is a luxury SUV that brings both comfort and crash protection to the table. This midsize beauty is equipped with a strong, rigid frame that absorbs impact in the event of a collision, earning it top marks in safety tests.

With features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking, the Nautilus is designed to prevent accidents before they happen.

Its low center of gravity, aided by a well-balanced chassis, enhances stability, reducing the risk of rollovers. Inside, it’s as plush as it is protective, with a suite of airbags and advanced safety features designed to keep you and your passengers safe, no matter the drive.

(Image via Lincoln)

Nissan Kicks

Nissan Kicks

The Nissan Kicks may be compact, but it doesn’t skimp on safety. This affordable subcompact SUV shines in crash tests, earning high marks for its solid frame and smart design. With features like automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, and blind-spot monitoring, the Kicks is always on the lookout for danger, helping drivers avoid accidents before they occur.

Its low weight and solid construction contribute to great crash-test results, while its compact size offers excellent maneuverability, which is key in avoiding collisions in tight spaces. Practical, safe, and surprisingly spacious for its size, the Nissan Kicks proves that good things really do come in small, crash-worthy packages.

(Image via Nissan)

Toyota Camry

Toyota Camry

The Toyota Camry is a sedan that balances reliability with exceptional safety. With its sturdy build and advanced safety features, the Camry consistently earns top marks in crash tests.

Its high-strength steel body and reinforced frame are designed to protect passengers, while features like adaptive cruise control, lane departure alert, and automatic emergency braking help avoid accidents before they happen.

The Camry’s smooth handling and low center of gravity add extra stability, making it less prone to rollovers. Inside, a comprehensive airbag system ensures maximum protection in the event of a collision. For drivers seeking peace of mind, the Toyota Camry delivers on both fronts: safety and dependability.

(Image via Toyota)

Honda Odyssey

Honda Odyssey

The Honda Odyssey is a family-friendly minivan that doesn’t just prioritize comfort but also top-tier safety. Known for its spacious interior and kid-approved features, the Odyssey excels in crash tests thanks to its solid construction and thoughtful design.

With Honda’s suite of safety tech, including forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking, it’s like having an extra set of eyes on the road.

The Odyssey’s rigid frame and well-engineered crumple zones help absorb impact during a collision, while its stability control reduces rollover risk. It’s the perfect mix of family hauling and crash protection, ensuring that your loved ones stay safe, mile after mile.

(Image via Honda)