Passenger safety has been a major concern for drivers for many years. The incidence of injuries and deaths caused by accidents, especially those involving drivers under the influence, led many families to lobby the government and industry to take steps to make vehicles safer. The industry responded by adding passive safety features like airbags and active safety features like automatic emergency brakes. At the same time, the government established the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in 1970. The NHTSA began performing crash tests in 1978 and eventually came out with the 5-Star Ratings in 1993.
Today, the NHTSA gives an overall score, as well as scores for frontal impact, side impact, and rollover. Meanwhile, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) was established by the various automobile insurance companies to let consumers know about the safest models. The IIHS began issuing its own list in 2005. As a result, when you look for used SUVs for sale, you can find the safest ones by checking the websites of both the NHTSA and the IIHS. All you need is the make, model, and model year. With the NHTSA, you can even search by the specific vehicle identification number (VIN) for the used SUV you are considering.
At Crossroads GMC, we offer a vast selection of some of the finest used SUVs available. This allows you to find one that fits your needs and is safe for you and your passengers. Our team looks forward to meeting with you and guiding you through the process. Before you explore our extensive selection of used SUVs, let’s look at some notable models that were rated highly by these prestigious organizations.
Subcompact SUVs
Choosing a safe SUV depends in part on the vehicle size you desire. For example, a subcompact SUV is ideal for commuters, students, and daily drivers but may present a challenge for people with a large or growing family. These models are known for their sportiness and superior fuel economy. But they are not as roomy, especially if you need room for cargo. Fortunately, size does not always equal safety. With the advent of advanced driver assistance features many subcompact SUVs may be safer than many larger models.
This is due in part to the availability of these safety features at lower price points, as well as the added maneuverability afforded by a smaller vehicle. In addition, modern vehicle design promotes passenger safety over vehicle damage. So, in the event of a collision, the vehicle will take the brunt of the impact instead of the driver and passengers. This was one thing the NHTSA discovered by performing crash tests.
If you are looking for subcompact SUVs with 5-star safety ratings from the NHTSA, there are three models that standout. The Chevy Trailblazer is a sporty model with great fuel economy and a wonderful option for folks who love the outdoors. It is also very affordably priced. Like most models from Buick, the Encore emphasizes comfort and convenience features, making it ideal for drivers who love a little refinement. The Mazda CX-30 is very tech forward, and also consistently receives a Top Safety Pick and Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, which conducts its own safety tests.
Compact SUVs
Also known as crossovers and small SUVs, the compact SUV category is one of the fastest growing in the automotive industry. It seems that every automaker has at least one model in this category. This is because these are some of the most versatile vehicles, offering roominess, fuel economy, and exceptional handling, making them ideal for commuters, daily drivers, young families, and empty nesters. Of these, there are five that seem to always score a 5-star safety rating in the tests performed by the NHTSA.
The Chevy Equinox is not only one of the most popular compact SUVs; it is also a very safe model, with most used models featuring an array of Chevy Safety Assist driver assistance features. Built on the same platform as the Equinox is the GMC Terrain. This is also a 5-star safety rating model, but it emphasizes more of the ruggedness that is the hallmark of GMC models.
There are also three other compact SUVs that also appear on most year’s lists for IIHS Top Safety Pick and Top Safety Pick+ models. Like the CX-30, the Mazda CX-50 is a tech-forward compact SUV that delivers exceptional safety and driver assistance technologies. The Honda CR-V ranks among the most popular compact SUV models and is often among the roomiest models available. Finally, the Hyundai Tucson is a sporty compact SUV that ranks as one of the safest in this vehicle class.
Midsize SUVs
Sometimes, drivers feel like they need a little more room. Some even desire a bit more performance. This is why automakers offer midsize SUVs. These two-row models also seat up to five passengers, like compact and subcompact models, but also offer more interior space and room for cargo. Two of the safest models in this class are the Chevy Blazer and Nissan Murano. Each is sporty and roomy and features the latest in driver assistance technology. In addition, you will get 5-star safety based on tests performed by the NHTSA. If you want a safe and sporty used SUV for work or home, either of these will be perfect for you.
Three-Row SUVs
Almost as large as the category of compact SUVs, three-row SUVs deliver the most in passenger space. Depending on which model you choose, you can seat anywhere from seven to nine passengers. In many ways, the three-row SUV is the category that led to the decline of the minivan. This model gives you the roominess of a minivan, but with the ruggedness and styling of an SUV.
The Chevy Traverse and GMC Acadia are two three-row SUVs that are not only very affordable used, but also consistently score a 5 on the NHTSA safety ratings. Like many Chevy and GMC models, these are based on the same design. If you want more comfort and convenience features in an equally safe three-row SUV, you could opt for a used Buick Enclave. The Kia Sorento also provides a solid amount of roominess, with the Hyundai Palisade providing even more. The Palisade is also a model that often appears on the IIHS list of Top Safety Picks. If you love technology, then a used VW Atlas might work for you. Volkswagen has many unique safety features that don’t appear on many other vehicles. In addition, like the Palisade, the Atlas scores well with the IIHS.
Finally, if you need more space, you can choose a three-row full-size SUV. These models deliver an exceptionally roomy passenger compartment without compromising on cargo space. One of the complaints some drivers have about three-row SUVs is the need to fold down the third row of seats to accommodate your belongings. The Ford Explorer is a larger midsize three-row SUV, while the full-size Ford Expedition offers an exceptional blend of passenger and cargo space. Both received 5-star safety ratings from the NHTSA, with the Explorer also being named a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS.
Luxury SUVs
Some drivers like to have the best things in life. They are the ones who desire high-performance models with leather interiors, heated seats, premium audio systems, and advanced infotainment systems on their vehicles. However, just like everyone else, they want to know that they and their passengers will reach their destination safely. Fortunately, a number of the top luxury brands also offer SUVs that score a 5-star safety rating from the NHTSA. You can find many of these used models for sale at our dealership.
Cadillac was founded over 100 years ago to offer the best luxury features on any General Motors vehicles. This tradition continues to this day, with models like the Cadillac XT4, a compact SUV, and XT5, a midsize SUV, delivering the elegant goods. Best of all, each have received a 5-star safety rating from the NHTSA, so you can truly have your cake and eat it too.
Volvo built its reputation on safety. In recent years, it has stepped up its game when it comes to comfort and convenience features. You can see this amazing blend of safety and luxury when you choose a used Volvo XC60. This compact SUV continues Volvo safety tradition, also often being named an IIHS Top Safety pick.
Lexus is the luxury brand from Toyota. It provides the dependability, roominess, and safety frequently associated with Toyota, but with a higher quality interior and exterior finishes. The Lexus RX350 is a midsize, two-row SUV that gets high marks from both the NHTSA and IIHS. Best of all, buying one used makes this and the other luxury models more affordable.
Purchasing a Pre-owned SUV Doesn’t Mean You Have to Compromise on Safety
Many factors go into choosing a used SUV, such as size, performance, fuel economy, usage, and price. However, when you buy one of these used SUV models from our dealership, you won’t have to worry about safety as each is a 5-star safety-rated model. Buying a pre-owned SUV doesn’t mean you can’t get all the important safety and driver assistance tools you need in a modern vehicle, and we can help. Let our friendly and knowledgeable team show you an array of safe options to choose from, giving you the confidence you need for a price that fits your budget.
