Safest Car for New Drivers in 2024
Choosing the right car for a new driver can be daunting, especially when safety is a top priority. With advancements in automotive technology, 2024 has brought a range of vehicles equipped with state-of-the-art safety features designed to protect new drivers on the road.
In this guide, we will explore what makes a car safe, debunk common safety myths, and highlight some of the safest cars available this year according to leading safety experts.
What Makes a Car Safe? Myth vs Fact
Bigger cars are safer than smaller cars
Myth: While cars like SUVs or trucks might seem safer because they’re larger and heavier, that’s not always the case. Safety features, the car’s design, and how it performs in crash tests are more critical to your safety. Many smaller cars today have advanced safety technology that provides excellent protection.
Newer cars are safer than older cars
Fact: Yes, newer cars are generally safer than older models. This is thanks to new safety technologies like automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist. Plus, better materials and engineering means improved crash protection.
Red cars are more likely to be involved in an accident
Myth: The color of your car doesn’t affect your chances of being in an accident. This myth comes from the idea that red is associated with sports cars and more reckless driving. But really, safety depends on how you drive, the condition of your car, and road conditions, not the color of your vehicle.
Safest Cars in 2024 According to Experts
When it comes to determining the safest cars, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) are the leading authorities.
Each year, these organizations test and rate various models to give consumers reliable information about vehicle safety and separate myth from fact. Here are some of the highest-ranking vehicles in 2024:
Acura Integra: This “small model” received five stars from the NHTSA and was an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ winner. It has impressive crash test ratings and advanced safety features like collision mitigation braking and traffic sign recognition.
Honda HR-V: This small SUV also received the highest ratings from both the NHTSA and IIHS. NHTSA-approved features, such as forward collision warning, crash imminent braking, and dynamic brake support, make this a reliable vehicle for new and experienced drivers alike.
Ford Explorer: With high ratings across numerous crash tests and safety organizations, this mid-size SUV offers advanced safety features and a sturdy construction. It excels across other critical safety categories, such as driver assistance technologies, rollover resistance, and overall crashworthiness.
BMW X3: The BMW X2 combines luxury with top-tier safety features, earning high ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS. It includes advanced driver assistance systems like active cruise control and fatigue and focus alert.
2024 Rivian R1T: This Rivian model sets a new standard for pickup truck safety. With advanced safety features and exceptional crash test ratings, it is a great choice for adventurous and safety-minded drivers.
Don’t just pick the safest car; learn how to operate it safely, too. Register for a driver’s education course and get the hands-on knowledge you need to drive your new car safely and confidently.
