What is Fords safest car?
Ford's lineup does not rely on a single "safest" car. Safety depends on model year, trim, and the safety features chosen. In recent years, the Mustang Mach-E and F-150 have consistently earned strong safety ratings from major testing organizations when equipped with the recommended safety packages.
This article explains how safety ratings are determined, identifies Ford models that have performed well in independent tests, and provides guidance on comparing options to find the safest Ford for your needs.
How safety is measured
Independent agencies such as IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) and NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) test new cars to assign crash-test scores, overall safety ratings, and, in some cases, designation levels like Top Safety Pick or Top Safety Pick+. They also evaluate the effectiveness of driver-assistance systems and crash-avoidance technology. Because redesigns and optional equipment can change a model’s safety profile, ratings can vary by model year and trim.
Key tests and ratings used by agencies
IIHS conducts a variety of crash tests (including small overlap, moderate overlap, side and roof strength assessments) and assesses headlight performance and crash prevention. NHTSA provides a five-star overall rating based on crash tests and real-world safety data. Together, these ratings give consumers a sense of a vehicle’s crashworthiness and available safety tech.
Ford models with notably strong safety ratings
These Ford models have earned high safety marks in recent model years, especially when equipped with Ford’s latest safety packages. Availability and exact ratings can vary by year and trim, so check the specific configuration you’re considering.
- Ford Mustang Mach-E — a compact electric SUV recognized for solid crash protection and a robust suite of driver-assistance features in newer trims.
- Ford F-150 — the full-size pickup with strong crash-test results and extensive safety technology across recent generations.
- Ford Escape — a compact SUV that performs well in IIHS and NHTSA evaluations, particularly with advanced safety packages.
- Ford Explorer — a midsize SUV that attains favorable safety ratings when equipped with Ford's Co-Pilot360 suite and other safety features.
In short, several Ford models perform strongly on safety tests, but the top choice depends on your budget, preferred body style, and which safety features you want. Always verify the exact model-year and trim ratings on IIHS and NHTSA for the configuration you’re considering.
Key safety features to look for
Beyond crash-test results, modern driver-assistance features can dramatically affect real-world safety. When evaluating a Ford, look for a comprehensive safety package that includes the latest driver-assistance technologies, as some features may be standard on higher trims while others are optional.
- Automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection
- Lane-keeping assist with lane-centering
- Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert
- Adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability
- 360-degree camera system or multi-angle rearview
- Post-crash automatic emergency call
- Ford Co-Pilot360 or equivalent safety-suites
- High-strength body structure with multiple airbags
When shopping, confirm that the trim you’re considering includes the safety features you want, and check the latest IIHS/NHTSA results for that exact model-year and configuration.
Takeaways
Key points: there isn’t a single Ford model that is universally the safest; safety ratings are year- and trim-specific. The Mustang Mach-E and F-150 are often cited among Ford’s strongest safety performers, but the best pick depends on your needs and the exact configuration you choose. Always verify current ratings and features for the exact car you’re considering.
Summary
Ford’s safest car answer isn’t one-size-fits-all. To identify the safest option for you, examine the model-year and trim-specific IIHS and NHTSA ratings and prioritize models with a full set of advanced driver-assistance features and a strong crash-structure. In recent years, the Mustang Mach-E and F-150 have stood out in safety discussions, but your optimal choice will depend on your vehicle type, budget, and desired safety tech.
