These Are the Safest SUVs You Can Buy in 2022

If you're looking to buy a new car, truck, or SUV, you're almost certainly thinking about safety. Luckily, the NHTSA and IIHS crash-test and evaluate new vehicles so you can have a little more peace of mind before you walk into a dealership and sign on the dotted line. Impressively, even with new safety guidelines regarding headlights for 2022 , many of the vehicles that made our list in 2021 also made this list.

Determining which SUVs are the safest of all can seem daunting, but to make things easier, we've assembled the safest SUVs you can buy in 2022. If an SUV is found on this list, that means it's a 2022 IIHS Top Safety Pick+ and it has a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA . Not all SUVs meet both criteria, so you can be sure these family haulers are the safest ones on the market. We've arranged these in alphabetical order and not necessarily most to least safe.

More on the safest vehicles available today:

• Safest Cars for 2022
• Safest Trucks for 2022

2022 Acura RDX Safety Ratings and Features

We appreciate the 2022 Acura RDX's athletic moves and sharp looks, but perhaps better than those is the fact that it's a 2022 IIHS Top Safety Pick+ and earns a five-star overall crash rating from the NHTSA, just as it did in 2021. It also comes with AcuraWatch, a suite of safety systems, as standard kit. That means you get automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, and road departure mitigation all without spending a dime over its sticker price. Optional safety features include a surround-view camera system, blind-spot monitoring, front and rear parking sensors, and a rear cross-traffic monitoring system.

2022 Acura RDX: What We Think

The Acura RDX is a MotorTrend favorite in its crowded class. In addition to being handsome and well equipped as standard, the RDX impresses with its upscale and well-executed interior. The infotainment display is crisp and easy to read, even if its touchpad control requires a bit of a learning curve. The latest version of Acura's Super-Handling AWD system delivers just that: super handling. It's great to drive, great to look at, and safe, too. Other than the infotainment system and a transmission that could use a little more refinement, there's little to dislike about the Acura RDX.

2022 Audi E-Tron/E-Tron Sportback Safety Ratings and Features

The IIHS named the 2022 Audi E-Tron a 2022 Top Safety Pick+ for its excellent crash scores and front crash prevention technology. It also earned a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA, including four stars in the front crash test and five stars in side crashes and rollovers. Standard safety features are abundant: They include automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, front and rear parking sensors, auto high-beams, and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert.

2022 Audi E-Tron/E-Tron Sportback: What We Think

The E-Tron is a great example of a vehicle's performance matching its looks. The electric SUV from Audi benefits from sharp steering and an exceptionally smooth powertrain, contributing to a sense of refinement. The SUV uses a smart regenerative braking system that allows the vehicle to coast as much as possible to preserve momentum. When pushed, the SUV feels planted and hugs corners with finesse. The E-Tron's interior doesn't disappoint, either. Widescreen displays impress, including the 12.3-inch instrument cluster in front of the driver. The E-Tron has one major flaw: It can only travel around 220 miles on a single charge. Unfortunately for Audi, this will keep many customers flocking to Tesla. For drivers who drive within that range regularly or don't mind charging up more often, however, the E-Tron is a fun and sophisticated option in this space.

2022 Audi Q5/Q5 Sportback Safety Ratings and Features

Joining the 2022 E-Trons are the refreshed 2022 Q5 and its Sportback version , and changes made for this year have finally earned it an NHTSA Five Star Rating as well as an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award, which includes new and returning safety features. These include blind-spot monitoring, high-beam assist, lane keep assist, rear cross-traffic alert, and rear-end collision mitigation. Front and rear parking sensors are also added. Adaptive cruise control is standard on Premium Plus and Prestige models. Additionally, the SUV's vehicle-to-vehicle automatic emergency braking system received a Superior score, the highest possible.

2022 Audi Q5/Q5 Sportback: What We Think

Elegant best describes the Audi Q5. Its stylish exterior design and comfortable, well-controlled ride provide the luxurious experience you'd expect from a vehicle in this class. A high-quality interior with impressive technologies sweetens the deal. For all its merits, the Q5 isn't that exciting to drive due to minor turbo lag, the dual-clutch transmission taking too long to downshift in certain scenarios, and the drive experience isn't as refined as we'd like. We've also lamented that legroom feels a bit tight for rear-seat passengers. However, those looking for a plush, tech-forward luxury SUV may find their match with the Q5.

2022 Cadillac XT6 Safety Ratings and Features

Both FWD and AWD versions of the 2022 Cadillac XT6 receive an overall five-star NHTSA safety rating and a 2022 IIHS Top Safety Pick+. Unlike the Cadillac XT5, the XT6 has a better variety of standard safety technology including automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and automatic high-beams are equipped on all models. The Driver Assist package rounds out the suite of equipment with adaptive cruise control and rear automatic emergency braking.

2022 Cadillac XT6: What We Think

Although the XT6 has plenty of flair on the outside, the inside feels too much like a lesser GM brand than a Cadillac Luxury SUV . It has a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics but ultimately the XT6 prioritizes cushiness over poise. The drivetrain choices aren't as potent as those found in other three-row luxury SUVs, while the interior materials lack an overall premium feel. Aside from these shortcomings, the XT6 boasts strong safety ratings and a great infotainment system that's easy to use. The XT6 lands solidly midpack in the hotly contested segment of luxury three-row crossovers, and while Cadillac's offering gets some things right, this SUV's good qualities don't quite outweigh the negatives, making it only a so-so choice.

2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer Safety Ratings and Features

The 2022 Trailblazer's FWD and AWD models received five-star overall safety ratings from the NHTSA, the administration's highest grade. The IIHS has yet to publish ratings for the current subcompact crossover version of the Trailblazer and has ratings for only the larger SUV from the 2000s, which is related only in name to the current version. Every Trailblazer comes equipped with automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and automatic high-beams. Blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic monitoring, and rear parking sensors are available for all trim levels and adaptive cruise control is available on the Trailblazer LT, Activ, and RS trims.

2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer: What We Think

Like its larger compact cousin, the Blazer, the subcompact Chevy Trailblazer boasts handsome looks. Its exterior styling has lots of character, and it has the stance of a small bulldog. We also appreciate the Trailblazer's spacious interior and available AWD. Although it isn't the quickest small crossover on the market, the Trailblazer never feels slow around town. We are less impressed by the Trailblazer's handling, which lacks poise and precision. The interior plastics feel cheap, and it's odd that features like navigation and multi-zone climate control are not offered. Compared to others in the segment, the Trailblazer can get pricey when it's fully loaded, which becomes a tough sell when the competition is often better equipped.

2022 Ford Bronco Sport Safety Ratings and Features

Earning both the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ and NHTSA Five Star Rating, the 2022 Ford Bronco Sport is the only SUV from the Blue Oval to rank in this list. That's because Ford is pretty generous in terms of driver assist active safety content on the 2022 Bronco Sport, as all trims include Ford's Co-Pilot360 suite. That means automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert are likely standard. Last year's Co-Pilot360 Assist+ package added adaptive cruise control and evasive steering assist, and rain-sensing wipers were included on the Outer Banks trim and higher.

2022 Ford Bronco Sport: What We Think

The 2022 Bronco Sport represents one half of Ford's resurrection of the Bronco name. Sometimes playfully referred to as the "Baby Bronco," the Bronco Sport is a fine-driving, off-road-capable compact crossover based on the Ford Escape. It's smaller and less off-road-focused than the standard Bronco and uses an independent rear suspension instead of the Bronco's truck-like live rear axle. As the Bronco Sport made its debut for 2021, Ford hasn't announced any major updates for the 2022 model year. The Bronco Sport competes with other small SUVs including the Jeep Cherokee and Compass, Subaru Forester, Toyota RAV4, and Honda CR-V.

2022 Genesis GV80 Safety Ratings and Features

The 2022 Genesis GV80 earns excellent crash safety results . From the IIHS it gets a 2022 Top Safety Pick + designation, and the NHTSA gives it a five-star overall crashworthiness score; each is the highest possible rating from those respective bodies. Standard driver assist and active safety features include adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, front automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, side and rear cross-traffic alert, and 10 airbags are placed throughout the cabin. The high-end Prestige trim has camera-based blind-spot monitors that show a live view of the vehicle's blind spots when the turn signals are activated.

2022 Genesis GV80: What We Think

The Genesis GV80 hit the scene in 2021 and wasted no time in earning our favor. The 2022 GV80's exterior is nice, but its interior is even more so. The cabin is awash in gorgeous materials draped over an understated design while also being spacious, practical, and high-tech. That said, the driving experience could be more refined as the powertrains are a bit coarse and the entry-level turbo inline-four can feel strained. Most problematic is a ride quality that borders on harsh and unbecoming of a luxury vehicle. Even so, the GV80 is a seriously impressive luxury SUV , worthy of consideration against any of its better-established competitors.

2022 Hyundai Palisade Safety Ratings and Features

The 2022 Hyundai Palisade earned top scores from NHTSA with a five-star overall rating and the IIHS rated it a 2022 Top Safety Pick+ for all trims. These ratings make the Palisade one of the safest SUVs for sale today. Standard driver assist features include forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, lane keeping assist with centering function, rear cross-traffic alert, front and rear automatic emergency braking, driver attention warning, automatic high-beams, and adaptive cruise control. For 2022, every Palisade trim level comes with blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and safe exit assist as standard.

2022 Hyundai Palisade: What We Think

There's a reason why the Palisade is such a hit with buyers. The packaging is fantastic, and even third-row passengers have fairly decent room. The Palisade's interior is impressive thanks to its high-quality materials, even on lower-priced trims. That also means the Palisade is a serious value play, offering a higher number of features than competitors at or below the same price point. Unfortunately, we find the powertrain lacking, which is a bit problematic given there's no uplevel engine option. Another downside is that the seats are harder than they appear. Given the Palisade's wild popularity, many buyers are paying over sticker, effectively canceling out that value play.

2022 Mazda CX-5 Safety Ratings and Features

The NHTSA gave the 2022 Mazda CX-5 a five-star overall safety rating . This score includes four stars in the front and side crash tests, and five stars in the rollover test. The 2022 Mazda CX-5 was named a 2022 Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS, a repeat award from 2021. Standard safety features on the 2022 CX-5 include automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert.

2022 Mazda CX-5: What We Think

Other compact crossovers may be more spacious, but the 2022 Mazda CX-5 is a top pick for drivers who prioritize performance. Updates for the new model year, including a revised suspension and transmission, should make it even more fun to drive. The CX-5 is positioned above the CX-30 and below the new CX-50 and three-row CX-9 in Mazda's crossover lineup .

2022 Mazda CX-9 Safety Ratings and Features

The 2022 Mazda CX-9 has received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and an IIHS Top Safety Pick+, the award given to vehicles that perform best in the institute's evaluations. Mazda calls its suite of active safety features i-Activsense, and on the 2022 CX-9 this includes standard adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic monitoring, lane keeping, automatic high-beams, and rain-sensing wipers. A 360-degree camera system and traffic sign recognition are also available.

2022 Mazda CX-9: What We Think

The three-row midsize CX-9 is Mazda's flagship SUV. For 2022, a new trim level has been added but all front-wheel-drive models have been retired. The CX-9 gets closest to posh at the Signature trim level, with features like available second-row captain's chairs and middle-row center console, and styling that includes distinctive quilting and piping on the seats, wood and patterned aluminum trim pieces, and trim-specific stitching on the steering wheel. But in terms of practicality, the CX-9 is hurt by its dimensions. The third row of seats is very small, even for children, and the cargo room is small for the segment even when the third row is folded. But for buyers who prioritize engaging handling over a spacious interior, the CX-9 just might fit the bill.

2022 Mazda CX-30 Safety Ratings and Features

The 2022 Mazda CX-30 received the NHTSA Five Star safety rating and the IIHS once again called the CX-30 a Top Safety Pick+ for 2022. Every 2022 CX-30 is equipped with standard lane keeping, automatic LED headlights with automatic high-beams, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control, features that are part of Mazda's i-Activsense suite. Rain-sensing windshield wipers are also standard, while higher trim levels receive available driver assist active safety features like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic monitoring, traffic sign recognition, and a 360-degree view camera system.

2022 Mazda CX-30: What We Think

Like several of Mazda's offerings, the 2022 CX-30 is a looker with handling chops, but if you opt for the turbo model, you'll get a punch of power that's missing from the base, naturally aspirated powertrain. We're less enthused about the powertrains' automatic transmission, which seems more geared for efficiency than passing power. Other CX-30 dynamic disappointments include a soft brake pedal and a stiffly sprung ride. And while the cabin is nice, the CX-30's infotainment system is unnecessarily complicated and space is at a premium. Even so, if you're looking for a small SUV that's more of a fun-to-drive canyon carver than a hauler of people and stuff, the CX-30 could be for you.

2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class Safety Ratings and Features

NHTSA has given the 2022 GLE-Class SUV a five-star overall safety rating and earned a 2022 IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award—but only for models equipped with available automatic emergency braking with cross-traffic monitoring. The 2022 GLE otherwise earned mostly Good rankings from the IIHS, one exception being the Acceptable grade for the standard LED projector headlights on the GLE350 and GLE450 in crash avoidance and mitigation testing. Every GLE SUV features standard automatic emergency braking, rain-sensing wipers, automatic high-beams, blind-spot monitoring, and semi-autonomous parking. More driver assist tech can be added via the GLE's available Driver Assistance package, a bundle that includes adaptive cruise control, lane centering, a cross-traffic monitoring system, and traffic sign recognition.

2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class: What We Think

Skip the entry-level GLE, as its conventional suspension rode poorly, and we're underwhelmed by the turbo-four with its nine-speed automatic in this application. We've had better experiences in the air-suspended GLE450, which offers refined, sharper handling. The GLE SUV's interior is quiet and comfortable enough, at least in the first two rows, but the available third row is only big enough for small kids. Because the GLE SUV is on the larger end of the midsize spectrum, there's ample cargo room, too.

2022 Nissan Murano Safety Ratings and Features

The Nissan Murano earned a 2022 Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS and earned a Five Star Safety Rating from the NHTSA, which consists of five stars in the front and side crash tests, and four stars in the rollover test. All Nissan Muranos come standard with automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic alert, automatic high-beams, rear automatic braking, and a driver alertness monitor. A 360-degree camera system is available.

2022 Nissan Murano: What We Think

Comfort is the Nissan Murano's specialty and we've praised its spacious cabin and supremely comfortable seats. Drivers have plenty of power on tap, and braking is predictable while also providing a smooth and quiet ride. But some may find this crossover suffers from significant body roll when taking a corner, and the steering lacks feedback. At parking lot speeds, the steering becomes heavy, which further reduces the maneuverability of this midsize SUV from Nissan . The Murano's age is starting to show inside the cabin. The design of the center stack looks dated compared to rivals and Nissan could stand to improve the infotainment system graphics. Its plush interior notwithstanding, there are more modern options in the segment.

2022 Subaru Ascent Safety Ratings and Features

The IIHS named the 2022 Subaru Ascent a 2022 Top Safety Pick+ for its high crash test ratings and safety technologies. Similarly, the Subaru SUV earned an overall five-star rating from NHTSA. This rating includes five stars in front and side crash tests and four stars in the rollover test. The 2022 Subaru Ascent comes standard with a wide array of safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane departure and sway warning, adaptive cruise control with lane centering, and auto high-beams. Blind-spot monitoring with lane change assist and rear cross-traffic alert is available.

2022 Subaru Ascent: What We Think

The Ascent impresses with its powerful engine and smooth ride and offers nice body control while cornering. When we drove it on an off-road course, it successfully navigated through ponds, a steep hill, a boulder patch, and other obstacles. Even more important, the Ascent features a spacious interior. But as is typical in the segment, legroom in the third row is tight for adults. The second-row seats easily slide forward and back, giving passengers options on how they want to configure the cabin. Helpful storage cubbies throughout the interior provide added utility. That said, we were disappointed that our yearlong Ascent test vehicle suffered some reliability issues, even if the experience is unlikely to be the norm. Although it's not perfect, this SUV has the Subaru magic we were hoping for.

2022 Tesla Model Y Safety Ratings and Features

Tesla's smallest SUV, the Model Y, stands out versus the Tesla Model X in that it earns both a 2022 IIHS Top Safety Pick+ and has a five-star NHTSA crash safety rating. Looking at driver-assist features, every Model Y includes automatic emergency braking, Autopilot adaptive cruise control, lane centering, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Buyers can also spend $10,000 to upgrade to "full self-driving capability"—allow us to note that no vehicle on the market can actually drive itself, including Teslas—that adds the ability to navigate on Autopilot, autonomous lane changing, park assist, summon, and traffic light and stop sign control.

2022 Tesla Model Y: What We Think

This is the Model Y, Tesla's smaller, cheaper sibling to the Model X SUV. This is a seriously quick vehicle with near-instant responses and steering reminiscent of a sports car. But electric power means much less noise, and you'll feel and hear every imperfection in the road, especially with larger wheels and their excessive tire roar. As impressive as the Model Y is, we've also taken issue with Tesla's questionable build quality, a small rear window, and a glass roof that tends to heat up the interior. What it gains in on-road performance, it lacks in off-road, but we feel that the Model Y is a good buy.

2022 Toyota Highlander Safety Ratings and Features

In NHTSA testing, the 2022 Toyota Highlander earned a five-star overall safety rating , the best possible score. The IIHS also gave it a Top Safety Pick+ designation to Highlander models and earned the highest score of Good in all six crashworthiness tests. All Highlander models are equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ (TSS 2.5+), a suite of driver-assist and active safety features. Front automatic braking, adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, emergency steering assist, road sign recognition, and automatic high-beams are all included in TSS 2.5+.

2022 Toyota Highlander: What We Think

Ultimately, the Highlander serves its purpose as a versatile and easy-driving SUV, but its third row is so small that only young kids can fit, and when all the seats are upright, cargo capacity is still limited. For the driver, its bouncy ride quality and peaky power delivery don't inspire joy. Still, it offers lots of standard features, excellent safety ratings, and Toyota's proven quality. Its high-end trim levels could give luxury-minded shoppers pause, too. There's nothing especially problematic about it, but drivers who want something less basic, more fun, or just cooler should look around.

2022 Volvo XC90/XC90 Recharge Safety Ratings and Features

From early on in its development, safety has been a high priority for the 2022 Volvo XC90 . We expect the 2022 model to carry the excellent safety ratings it earned last year and in years before. The 2021 XC90 earned a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and the IIHS deemed it a 2022 Top Safety Pick+, both being the best accolades available. Driver assist and active safety features include forward collision warning, front and rear automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and automatic high-beams and windshield wipers. Adaptive cruise control and enhanced lane keeping aid, which Volvo calls Pilot Assist, is standard on all XC90 models.

2022 Volvo XC90/XC90 Recharge: What We Think

The XC90 still places near the top of our luxury three-row SUV rankings after more than five years on the market. Its exterior is low-key yet eye-catching, with chiseled details and excellent proportions. Inside the quiet cabin, nearly every touchpoint feels expensive and the seats are supremely comfortable. The XC90's third row is large enough to accommodate adults, although getting in and out can be a bit tricky. Drivers seeking outright performance may be dissuaded by the XC90's I-4-only engine options, but the Recharge PHEV model is the quickest and has 18 miles of all-electric range. While the XC90 isn't exactly sporty, it's nice to look at, drive, and live with, which means it remains one of our top choices in the luxury three-row SUV segment.

The Safest SUVs You Can Buy In 2022:

• 2022 Acura RDX
• 2022 Audi e-tron/e-tron Sportback

• 2022 Audi Q5/Q5 Sportback
• 2022 Cadillac XT6

• 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer
• 2022 Ford Bronco Sport

• 2022 Genesis GV80
• 2022 Hyundai Palisade

• 2022 Mazda CX-30
• 2022 Mazda CX-5

• 2022 Mazda CX-9
• 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class

• 2022 Nissan Murano
• 2022 Subaru Ascent

• 2022 Tesla Model Y
• 2022 Toyota Highlander

• 2022 Volvo XC90/XC90 Recharge