8 Safest Cars That Are Worth the Extra Cost
Purchasing a new car comes with many considerations, but two are probably top of mind the next time you are in the market to buy a vehicle: price and safety. Every year, car manufacturers produce fresh models that come equipped with state-of-the-art protection for the passengers inside — there are standard features like safety belts at no additional cost, as well as upgraded features like self-braking that get added to the price tag.
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“Safety in cars is often gauged by a combination of advanced driver-assistance features, robust build quality and superior crash-test ratings,” said Geoff Cudd, the founder of Findthebestcarprice.com.
“Features such as automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance and blind-spot monitoring are becoming standard and are crucial in preventing accidents. Additionally, cars that offer pedestrian detection, cross-traffic alerts and advanced airbag systems further enhance safety.”
For 2024, GOBankingRates reached out to some car experts to see what they consider the “safest cars” to buy from this year. Because safety can often come at a premium, this means these models are probably not the cheapest on the market, ranging from $30,000 to $70,000. Here’s what made the list, along with the manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) as reported by Car and Driver.
Acura Integra
MSRP: $33,000
The 2024 Acura Integra includes the Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), which Chris Townsend, the automotive expert and consultant of Three Movers said “incorporates adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist [and] automatic emergency braking into its features.”
Townsend said Acura’s 2024 model not only comes with side-impact airbags but includes structural integrity features, giving the example of how “[b]ody parts strengthening and the forming of crumple zones let the passengers ride [securely].”
Pedestrian safety is also taken into consideration when the ADAS “sends the information of pedestrians to the driver and helps to avoid the accidents,” Townsend said.
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Audi Q7
MSRP: $60,700
“Audi’s luxurious SUV comes standard with a suite of safety technologies, including night vision assist, traffic sign recognition and rear cross-traffic alert,” said Tina Willis, an Orlando car accident lawyer and owner of Tina Willis Law.
“The Q7’s [Quattro] all-wheel-drive system provides exceptional traction and stability in various driving conditions,” Willis said.
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BMW X5
MSRP: $66,200
Willis said the 2024 mid-size SUV from BMW “offers a comprehensive set of safety features, such as frontal collision warning, pedestrian detection and active blind spot detection.”
Chris Estrada, founder and CEO of Nationwide United Auto Transport, said the BMW X5 2024 also includes essential safety features like auto high-beams, a surround-view camera and parking sensors both front and rear, ensuring a secure driving experience.
“The X5’s dynamic stability control system helps maintain control in difficult driving situations,” Willis said.
Audi A6
MSRP: $59,200
Not ready to pay for the Q7, but still want to bring an Audi home with you? The A6 is another great model in the eyes of Blake Shaw, automotive expert, car enthusiast and blog author at All About Wheels.
“With features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist, the A6 is known for its cutting-edge technology. These features are meant to keep passengers safe and improve driving safety,” Shaw said.
Volvo XC90
MSRP: $57,900
“Volvo’s flagship SUV continues to prioritize safety with features like blind spot monitoring, lane departure warnings and automatic emergency braking,” Willis said. “The XC90’s sturdy construction and innovative crumple zones help protect drivers and passengers in the event of a collision.”
“Volvo has always been known for making safe cars and the new XC90 is no different,” Shaw said. “The advanced driver assistance system includes pilot assist and collision avoidance, which makes it a top choice for people who care a lot about safety.”
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Hyundai Palisade
MSRP: $38,000
Hyundai is the supplier of a mid-size SUV that is well designed to ensure the safety and pleasure of the driver, Townsend said, calling the 2024 model a “delight to drive.”
The Palisades hitting the market in 2024 “possess the best navigation and security systems up to date and they are similar to the forward-collision warning systems, blind-spot monitoring systems, automatic emergency braking and lane-keeping assistance,” said Townsend.
“[These] assist the drivers to have 360-degree vision, awareness and [ensures they] are always in complete control. Operated by a smart assistant which has a roomy infotainment system.”
Tesla Model Y
MSRP: $44,600
“Tesla’s electric SUV has many impressive safety features, including Autopilot, which provides semi-autonomous driving capabilities,” Willis said.
The 2024 model, Willis said, has a system that includes advanced driver assistance components such as adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, back-up camera, cross-traffic alert, rear parking aid, lane departure warning and automatic lane changing.
“Using cameras, radar and ultrasonic sensors, Autopilot can steer, accelerate and brake the vehicle within its lane, as well as navigate on and off highways,” Willis said, noting that “Autopilot is not a fully autonomous driving system so requires active driver supervision at all times. In addition, the Model Y’s low center of gravity and rigid body structure contribute to its excellent safety ratings.”
Mercedes-Benz E-Class
MSRP: $63,350
The E-Class sedan is equipped with Mercedes’ PRE-SAFE system, which Willis said is a “group of proactive safety devices that use sensors to detect potential collisions and prepare the vehicle and its occupants for impact.”
Willis said the key features in the E-class include seat belt pre-tensioning, automatic seat and headrest adjustment, window and sunroof closure, brake application and post-collision measures such as unlocking doors and turning on hazard lights.
“By working with other safety features, PRE-SAFE definitely can help to reduce the severity of injuries sustained in accidents. The car also features adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist to help prevent accidents,” Willis said.
“While these cars may come with a higher price tag, the added peace of mind and potential for avoiding serious accidents make them worth considering,” Willis said. “Consumers should prioritize safety features when purchasing a new car, as they can make a significant difference during any accident.”
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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 8 Safest Cars That Are Worth the Extra Cost
