15 Safest Family Cars and SUVs Canada 2024

When it comes to choosing a vehicle for your family, safety is a top priority. Whether you’re navigating city streets or highways, transporting loved ones means prioritizing peace of mind, stability, and protection. This guide explores the 15 safest family vehicles of 2024, covering sedans and SUVs known for their cutting-edge safety features and high ratings.

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Car Safety Ratings In Canada

Car safety ratings are precise scores assigned to vehicles that indicate how safe they are in the event of an accident. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) is the institution with ultimate authority for determining the safest cars to drive. They choose the safest automobiles to drive by conducting tests to measure their ability to avoid accidents and safeguard people. The score also considers how well the car avoids a collision overall. A vehicle with a high safety score has a better probability of protecting you and your passengers than a low-rated vehicle.

15 Safest Family Cars and SUVs Canada 2024

What are the types of car safety ratings in Canada?

To determine a car’s safety rating, Canada uses three distinct entities. This includes the following:

The IIHS grades a vehicle’s safety performance using colour codes on a scale. Each hue symbolizes a level of “Poor” to “Good” or “Basic” to “Superior.”
Car manufacturers set the national safety mark, which must conform with Canada’s Motor Vehicle Safety Regulations (MVSR). This national safety symbol indicates trustworthiness and safety.
NHTSA rating: An American-based agency that rates vehicles using a 5-star rating system, with five being the highest and lowest rating.

These factors help reduce overall insurance claims costs for insurers, resulting in a lower vehicle insurance quotation for you.

What are the criteria for the top safety picks?

To qualify for the IIHS Top Safety Pick, cars must meet the following criteria:

The driver-side small overlap front, passenger-side small overlap front, moderate overlap front, side, roof strength, and head restraint tests all received satisfactory ratings.

A satisfactory or good score in the passenger-side small overlap front test.

An advanced or superior rating on the front crash prevention test.

An adequate or good headlamp rating.

Using IIHS 2024 data and other safety rankings, we’ll explore the safest vehicles in Canada in 2024.

15 Safest Family Cars and SUVs Canada 2024

Safest Sedans Engineered for Protection

When it comes to smaller family vehicles, sedans offer a balance of fuel efficiency, comfort, and agility. For Canadian families who prioritize a compact design but don’t want to compromise on safety, these top sedans for 2024 deliver on both fronts:

Toyota Camry

Safety Features: Known for its high reliability, the Toyota Camry includes Toyota Safety Sense, which features Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, and Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control.
Performance: Equipped with a strong frame and additional airbags, the Camry consistently earns top ratings in crash tests.
Why It’s Ideal for Families: With its spacious interior, fuel efficiency, and impressive safety record, it’s one of the top choices for small families.

Honda Accord

Safety Technology: The Honda Sensing suite includes Collision Mitigation Braking System, Road Departure Mitigation System, Adaptive Cruise Control, and Lane Keeping Assist.
Safety Awards: Regularly earning high ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, the Accord remains a reliable choice for Canadian families.

Mazda6

Design and Safety: With strong crash safety ratings and Mazda’s i-Activsense technology, the Mazda6 is engineered with safety in mind. Features include Smart City Brake Support, Driver Attention Alert, and Blind Spot Monitoring.
Advantages for Families: The Mazda6 blends style with substance, offering spacious rear seating and excellent handling that enhances safety on the road.

Hyundai Sonata

Safety Features: The Hyundai Sonata is equipped with Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Driver Attention Warning, and Safe Exit Warning. Its high-strength frame and additional airbags ensure a secure cabin in case of a collision.
Best for Families: With a sleek design and family-focused features, the Sonata offers value without compromising safety.

Each of these sedans provides excellent safety features while also being family-friendly, making them some of the safest cars in Canada for 2024.

Top Picks SUVs Canada 2024

SUVs are a popular choice for families needing ample space without compromising on safety. The 2024 models offer enhanced safety technologies, spacious interiors, and fuel-efficient options that make them the top choices in Canada.

Volvo XC90

Safety Features: Volvo remains synonymous with safety, and the XC90 includes Blind Spot Information System, Pilot Assist, and Cross Traffic Alert.
Family Benefits: Known for its luxurious yet spacious design, the XC90 accommodates families with ample cargo space and three rows of seating, making it a top SUV choice.

Toyota Highlander

Advanced Safety: With Toyota Safety Sense and an updated structure for 2024, the Highlander boasts excellent crash test ratings and reliability.
Family Appeal: The Highlander seats up to eight passengers, making it ideal for larger families needing comfort and versatility.

Subaru Ascent

Safety Suite: Standard EyeSight Driver Assist Technology includes Pre-Collision Braking and Lane Keep Assist, ensuring high safety standards.
Space for Families: With three rows and advanced safety features, the Ascent meets the needs of families who travel with cargo or sports gear.

Mazda CX-90

Driver Assistance: This new 2024 model comes with Mazda’s enhanced i-Activsense safety technology, which includes Adaptive Cruise Control and Traffic Jam Assist.
Why It’s Great for Families: The CX-90 offers a comfortable, spacious ride that’s also fuel-efficient, appealing to families who seek value without compromising on safety.

These SUVs represent the safest family-oriented options in Canada for 2024, combining advanced safety technologies with generous space and comfort.

Award-Winning Safety Vehicles

In Canada, some vehicles consistently receive accolades for their outstanding safety performance, as recognized by organizations like the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) and the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration). These vehicles not only provide a safe driving experience but also integrate innovative technologies designed to prevent accidents and protect passengers.

Honda CR-V

Accolades: The Honda CR-V has been awarded the IIHS Top Safety Pick+, demonstrating its exceptional performance in crash tests and safety evaluations. Its robust body structure and comprehensive safety features make it one of the safest vehicles in its class.
Safety Features: The CR-V is equipped with Honda Sensing technology, which includes advanced driver-assistance systems like Collision Mitigation Braking System, Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS), and Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC). These features work together to help prevent accidents and maintain safe driving distances.
Family Fit: The spacious interior can comfortably seat five passengers and provides ample cargo space for strollers, sports gear, or luggage. The high ride height offers better visibility, allowing drivers to navigate safely through busy traffic.

Hyundai Tucson

Recognition: The Hyundai Tucson has received high safety ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA, cementing its place as one of Canada’s safest vehicles. Its robust construction and modern safety technologies make it a popular choice for families.
Safety Technology: The Tucson comes with Hyundai’s SmartSense suite of safety features, including Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Keeping Assist, and Blind-Spot Monitoring. These systems are designed to alert drivers to potential hazards and intervene if necessary to avoid collisions.
Best for Families: With a spacious interior that can comfortably accommodate five passengers and a generous cargo area, the Tucson is well-suited for family outings. Its reputation for reliability and comprehensive warranty further enhance its appeal to safety-conscious buyers.

Subaru Forester

Safety Recognition: The Subaru Forester is known for its remarkable safety ratings and has earned the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ designation. Its all-wheel-drive system, combined with advanced safety features, makes it a reliable choice for Canadian families, particularly in winter conditions.
Safety Suite: Equipped with Subaru’s EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, the Forester includes Adaptive Cruise Control, Pre-Collision Braking, and Lane Departure Warning. These features not only enhance safety but also contribute to a more relaxed driving experience.
Why Families Love It: The Forester offers a roomy interior with excellent visibility, making it easier for parents to keep an eye on young passengers. The cargo area is spacious, and the vehicle’s height allows for easy loading and unloading, making it ideal for busy family life.

Kia Sportage

Accolades: The Kia Sportage has received numerous awards for safety, including the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ designation, thanks to its strong crash test performance and innovative safety features.
Safety Features: The Sportage is equipped with an array of advanced safety technologies, including Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Blind Spot Monitoring, and Smart Cruise Control. These features are designed to help drivers stay aware of their surroundings and reduce the likelihood of accidents.
Family Appeal: With a spacious cabin, comfortable seating, and a well-designed cargo area, the Sportage is an excellent choice for families looking for a safe and versatile vehicle. The infotainment system and connectivity options also cater to tech-savvy families.

Top Rated Vehicles With Advanced Safety Features

As car safety advances, manufacturers increasingly incorporate innovative technologies that improve the driving experience while reducing the likelihood of an accident. Here, we look at the safest vehicles that stand out in 2024 for their advanced safety features.

Tesla Model Y

Advanced Safety Features: Tesla’s Model Y is at the forefront of automotive technology, offering an extensive array of safety features. The Autopilot system provides advanced driver-assistance capabilities, including Automatic Lane Changes, Traffic-Aware Cruise Control, and Enhanced Summon. The full self-driving capability adds even more safety functionalities when available.
Crash Test Performance: The Model Y has received high ratings from various safety organizations due to its strong structural integrity and performance in crash tests. Its low center of gravity, thanks to the battery placement, enhances stability, further minimizing rollover risks.
Family Convenience: The spacious interior can comfortably seat up to seven passengers with the optional third-row seating, and the large trunk space makes it easy to transport family gear or groceries. The over-the-air software updates mean that safety features can improve over time without needing a visit to a dealership.

Ford Escape

Safety and Innovation: The Ford Escape comes equipped with Ford’s Co-Pilot360 technology, which includes features like Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, Lane Keeping System, and Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking. These systems work together to enhance driver awareness and provide proactive safety measures.
Safety Ratings: The Escape consistently receives high marks from safety organizations, thanks to its structural safety features and advanced technology. The use of high-strength materials in its construction helps improve occupant protection during a crash.
Ideal for Families: With a spacious interior and cargo area, the Escape is perfect for families needing room for kids, pets, and gear. The vehicle’s comfort and fuel efficiency make it suitable for both daily commutes and family road trips.

Nissan Rogue

Safety Features: The Nissan Rogue is equipped with ProPILOT Assist, a semi-autonomous driving technology that helps maintain speed and distance from other vehicles. The vehicle also includes features like Automatic Emergency Braking, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, and Blind Spot Warning.
Crash Test Performance: The Rogue has excelled in safety evaluations, earning high scores from the IIHS and NHTSA for its overall crashworthiness and advanced safety technologies.
Family-Oriented Design: With a flexible interior and spacious cargo area, the Rogue caters to families looking for versatility and safety in one package. The vehicle’s connectivity features also help keep passengers entertained during trips.

How To Choose A Safety Family Vehicle

When choosing a family vehicle, finding the right balance between safety and space is essential. Families must consider their unique needs and lifestyles to make the best choice.

Assess Your Space Needs

Passenger Capacity: Depending on the size of your family, choose a vehicle that accommodates everyone comfortably. Sedans generally seat five, while SUVs and crossovers can often accommodate seven or more. Consider your routine—do you usually drive with many children or require extra space for gear?
Cargo Space: Evaluate how much cargo space you require. Families with sports gear, strollers, or luggage will benefit from vehicles with larger cargo areas and configurable seating arrangements. Many SUVs offer split-folding rear seats to increase cargo capacity when needed.

Factor in Fuel Efficiency

Fuel Economy: As gas prices fluctuate, fuel efficiency becomes a crucial consideration. Many of the safest cars now offer hybrid or plug-in hybrid models, which provide the benefits of traditional vehicles while minimizing fuel consumption. Electric vehicles (EVs) are also gaining popularity for eco-conscious families.
Long-Term Savings: Investing in a fuel-efficient vehicle can lead to substantial savings over time, making it an essential factor for budget-conscious families.

Consider Long-Term Value

Reliability: Vehicles with high safety ratings often correlate with reliability, which can translate into lower maintenance costs and fewer unexpected repairs. Research models that have proven track records for longevity and reliability.
Insurance Costs: Safety ratings can impact insurance premiums. Generally, vehicles with higher safety ratings may qualify for lower insurance costs, adding another layer of savings for families.
Resale Value: Consider the resale value of your chosen vehicle. Some models retain their value better than others, especially those with strong safety records and brand reliability.

Test Drive and Research

Hands-On Experience: Always take potential vehicles for a test drive to assess comfort, visibility, and ease of use for the driver and passengers. Pay attention to how the vehicle handles and its safety features in action.
Research and Reviews: Leverage consumer reports, safety ratings, and online reviews to gather insights about the vehicles you’re considering. Engage with other families and gather feedback on their experiences with specific models.

The vehicles included in this article follow the highest levels in safety, ranging from sedans to SUVs and catering to a wide range of family demands and preferences. Canadian families can drive with confidence knowing their loved ones are secure on the road by selecting a vehicle with proven safety ratings, innovative technologies, and plenty of room.

This comprehensive approach ensures that families make informed decisions when selecting their next vehicle, prioritizing safety while also addressing the practical needs of daily family life. Whether you prefer a sedan or an SUV, these safest vehicle options available in 2024 provide peace of mind with comfort or style.

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