What is the safest Toyota model?
For most buyers, the safest Toyota model today is the RAV4 (including the Hybrid), thanks to top crash-test ratings and robust active-safety features. As of 2025, other strong contenders include the Highlander and Prius, depending on model year and trim. Safety results can vary by year and by trim, so always check the latest tests.
How safety is measured
Automotive safety ratings come from independent testing agencies that evaluate crashworthiness, collision-prevention technology, and even headlights. Toyota models that are well-equipped with advanced safety features typically earn the highest marks from these organizations. In practice, the most consistently safe Toyotas are those that combine strong crash protection with a full suite of driver-assistance tech.
Agency standards and tests
The two primary organizations are IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) and NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration). IIHS awards Top Safety Pick or Top Safety Pick+ based on crashworthiness, collision-prevention abilities, and headlight performance; NHTSA uses a five-star rating system for overall safety. Ratings can vary by trim, package, and headlights, so the exact score may differ within a model line.
Top Toyota models for safety
Below are the Toyota models that have repeatedly earned high safety ratings in recent model years. The list reflects common configurations with available active-safety packages, but trim-level differences can change ratings.
- Toyota RAV4 (including RAV4 Hybrid)
- Toyota Highlander
- Toyota Prius
- Toyota Camry
- Toyota Corolla
Note: IIHS and NHTSA ratings can vary with different headlights and optional safety features; ensure you review the specific model year you are considering.
Model-by-model highlights
RAV4 and RAV4 Hybrid: Safety credentials
The RAV4 has repeatedly earned high safety marks in recent years, especially when equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ and automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection. Its combination of protection in crashes and proactive safety features makes it a frequent choice for safety-conscious buyers in the compact SUV segment.
Highlander: Family-friendly safety
The Highlander offers substantial safety credentials, with strong crash-test results and a broad suite of driver-assistance features. Its larger size and available technology make it a solid option for families seeking both space and protection on the road.
Prius and Corolla: Efficiency meets safety
Prius and Corolla families emphasize efficiency, but recent model years have also delivered strong safety performance. When well-equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ and other safety features, these models frequently earn high ratings from IIHS and NHTSA.
Safety features you can count on
Safety is not only about crash-test results but also the features that help prevent crashes. The following safety features are common across many Toyota models, and often standard on mid-to-upper trims.
- Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection
- Lane Departure Alert with Lane Tracing Assist
- Dynamic Radar Cruise Control
- Road Sign Assist
- Automatic High Beams
- Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
Availability varies by model year and trim; some features may be optional on base trims and standard on higher trims or with specific packages.
What this means for buyers
For shoppers prioritizing safety, focus on the latest model year and trim level, not just the model name. The RAV4 and Highlander are frequently highlighted as among the safest Toyotas in recent years, but the exact rating can shift with redesigned generations or updated safety packages. Always review the latest IIHS Top Safety Pick+/5-Star NHTSA results for the precise configuration you’re considering, and ensure you have the safety features that matter to you.
Summary
There is no single "safest" Toyota model across all situations. In 2025, buyers who prioritize top-tier safety commonly look to the Toyota RAV4 (including Hybrid variants) or the Highlander, with other strong performers like the Prius, Camry, and Corolla offering high safety ratings when well-equipped. The safest choice depends on model year, trim, and package availability. Verify the latest official safety ratings and features before buying.
What is the #1 safest car?
There is no single #1 safest car, as ratings vary by testing organization and model year. However, the Volvo XC90 is frequently highlighted for its safety features and strong performance in crash tests, and several 2025 models from brands like Subaru, Kia, Hyundai, and Tesla also achieve top ratings from organizations like the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). It's important to check the latest safety ratings for specific model years from the IIHS and NHTSA to find the safest vehicle for your needs.
Top contenders for safest cars
- Volvo XC90: Consistently praised for safety, the luxury SUV has earned top marks in crash tests and features advanced safety technology like Pilot Assist and City Safety.
- Subaru Outback: A midsize crossover that combines off-road capability with strong safety ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS.
- Tesla Model 3: Earned high scores in crash tests and is noted for its autonomous emergency braking and other driver assistance systems.
- Hyundai Ioniq 5: An electric vehicle that has received a top safety score of 10 out of 10 from U.S. News & World Report.
- Subaru Forester: Frequently cited as a top choice for safety, with IIHS Top Safety Pick+ awards for various model years.
- Kia EV6: Another electric SUV that has received a top safety score of 10 out of 10 from U.S. News & World Report.
How to find the safest car for you
- Check the latest ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA for specific model years, as features and ratings change annually.
- Look for vehicles that have earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, which is their highest honor.
- Consider a vehicle's accident rate per 100,0
Which Toyota car has a 5 star safety rating?
Toyota Innova HyCross
Toyota Innova HyCross Secures 5-Star Safety Rating Under Bharat NCAP. Receives a prestigious 5-star safety rating for adult and child occupant protection.
Is a Toyota Camry or RAV4 safer?
While both the RAV4 and Camry offer nearly identical safety features, the RAV4 gains a slight advantage with Toyota Safety Sense™ 2.5+.
What is Toyota's safest vehicle?
The safest Toyota cars are models that receive top ratings from the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) and NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration), such as the Toyota Highlander, Toyota Prius, and Toyota Camry. The Toyota bZ4X and Toyota Tundra crew cab are among the models with the highest "Top Safety Pick+" award from the IIHS for 2025. Many other models like the RAV4, Corolla Cross, and Sienna also earn high safety ratings.
Top-rated models
- Toyota bZ4X: Earned the IIHS "Top Safety Pick+" award for 2025.
- Toyota Highlander: Received the IIHS "Top Safety Pick+" award for 2024 and the NHTSA 5-Star Overall Safety Rating for 2023 and 2024.
- Toyota Prius: Received the IIHS "Top Safety Pick+" award for 2024.
- Toyota Camry: Recognized as an IIHS "Top Safety Pick" for 2024.
- Toyota Tundra crew cab: Earned the IIHS "Top Safety Pick+" for 2025.
- Toyota Corolla: Has been consistently recognized for safety, earning IIHS "Top Safety Pick" awards for various model years.
- Toyota RAV4: Earned an NHTSA 5-Star Safety Rating for 2024 and an IIHS "Top Safety Pick" award.
- Toyota Sienna: Received the IIHS "Top Safety Pick" award for 2024.
- Toyota Corolla Cross: Received a top-tier IIHS "Top Safety Pick+" award.
How to choose the safest Toyota
- Check the latest ratings: Always check the most recent safety ratings from organizations like the IIHS and NHTSA for the specific model year you are interested in, as ratings can change.
- Look for the highest awards: For the highest level of safety, look for vehicles that have received the IIHS "Top Safety Pick+" award.
- Consider safety features: Many Toyota vehicles come standard with the Toyota Safety Sense (TSS) suite, which includes features like pre-collision systems and lane departure alerts.
