Volvo, the Swedish automotive giant, has long been associated with safety and innovation. However, it's intriguing to note that not all Volvo models live up to this reputation. In fact, only two Volvo models from the 2026 lineup have earned the prestigious Top Safety Pick award from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
This raises an interesting question: are there other SUVs on the market that outperform the Volvo XC40, a small SUV from the iconic brand? Let's delve into this and explore some surprising alternatives.
Safety Beyond Volvo
While the XC40 received good ratings in some areas, such as front crash tests and seat belt reminders, it fell short in others. Notably, its side crash test and whiplash prevention earned only acceptable ratings. This opens the door for competitors to shine.
BMW X1: A Luxurious Safety Option
Starting with another luxury brand, the BMW X1, we find a model that has earned the Top Safety Pick+ award. The X1 excels in areas where the XC40 faltered, earning good ratings for side crash tests and pedestrian front crash prevention. However, the Volvo outperformed the BMW in seat belt reminders, a detail that many might overlook.
Mazda CX-5: Safety Across the Board
The Mazda CX-5 is an impressive contender, earning good ratings in all IIHS tests. Its child seat anchors received the highest rating, a good+, indicating exceptional safety. Yet, it's important to note that the CX-5 wasn't tested for whiplash prevention, an area where the XC40 performed adequately. Additionally, the CX-5's headlights rating varies by trim, with only the S Premium Plus earning the top score.
Hyundai Tucson: A Popular Choice
The Hyundai Tucson, a popular SUV in the U.S., boasts similar safety ratings to the CX-5. It excels in crash tests and crash prevention but falls short in whiplash prevention, an area where the XC40 performed better. Like the CX-5, the Tucson's headlights rating varies by trim, with the top-level Limited earning the highest score.
Kia Sportage: A Well-Rounded Performer
The Kia Sportage aligns closely with the IIHS's safety standards, earning good ratings in most areas. It outperforms the XC40 in whiplash prevention, with fewer demerits. However, similar to the Tucson and CX-5, the Sportage's headlights rating varies by trim, with only certain trims earning the top score.
Subaru Forester: The Ultimate Safety Pick
The Subaru Forester is a standout among small SUVs, earning the Top Safety Pick+ award with exclusively good ratings. It excels in all crash tests, crash avoidance, and internal safety features. The Forester's child seat anchors even earned the coveted good+ rating. This model truly sets the bar for safety in its class.
A Broader Perspective
What makes this exploration particularly fascinating is the insight it provides into the nuanced world of automotive safety. While Volvo has a well-deserved reputation, it's clear that other brands are offering exceptional safety features and innovations. The IIHS ratings provide a comprehensive look at how these vehicles perform in various scenarios, offering consumers a detailed guide to make informed choices.
In my opinion, this highlights the importance of research and understanding when it comes to vehicle safety. It's not just about the brand name; it's about the specific features and ratings that matter most to individual consumers. This data empowers buyers to make decisions based on their unique needs and priorities.
