Zeekr has impressed in Euro NCAP safety tests.
As safety continues to be a top priority for car buyers, 2025 brings a new wave of vehicles that set the bar for crash protection, technology, and overall security.
With advancements in engineering, safety features, and stricter crash-test standards, modern cars are safer than ever before.
From family-friendly sedans to electric SUVs, automakers are investing heavily in ensuring their vehicles provide maximum protection for all occupants.
We highlight seven of the safest cars on the market in 2025—vehicles that have earned top marks in Euro NCAP and other safety assessments.
Whether you’re looking for a reliable daily driver or a family car with peace of mind, these top picks offer exceptional safety across the board.
Zeekr X
Zeekr might not be a familiar name, but the Chinese brand is making waves in the automotive world.
A subsidiary of Geely—owner of Volvo, Lotus, Polestar, and the London Electric Vehicle Company (LEVC)—Zeekr has found success with its X model, both in China and internationally.
Despite being a newcomer, Zeekr has impressed in Euro NCAP safety tests.
The X was 2024’s safest small SUV and top-rated electric car, scoring 91% for adult protection, 90% for child safety, 84% for pedestrian protection, and 83% for safety assists.
It joins other five-star performers like the Cupra Tavascan, MG HS, and Toyota C-HR.
Built on the same platform as the Smart #1 and Volvo EX30, the Zeekr X is set to arrive in the UK in 2025, following Chinese brands such as BYD, Great Wall Motors, and Omoda.
Volkswagen Passat
Now in its ninth generation, the Volkswagen Passat continues to set safety benchmarks.
First launched in 1973, the long-running model remains a top choice for families despite the growing dominance of SUVs.
In Euro NCAP’s 2024 tests, the latest Passat secured the title of the safest large family car, sharing the honour with the Skoda Superb.
Built on the same platform as its sibling, it earned top marks: 93% for adult occupant protection, 87% for child safety, 82% for pedestrian protection, and 80% for safety assists.
Skoda Superb
The fourth-generation Skoda Superb has proven its credentials as one of the safest large family cars of 2024.
Matching the Volkswagen Passat’s test scores, it highlights Skoda’s commitment to safety and engineering excellence.
With strong crash test ratings—93% for adult protection, 87% for child safety, 82% for pedestrian protection, and 80% for safety assists—the Superb reinforces its reputation as a premium alternative in the segment.
Despite the decline of traditional family cars in favour of SUVs, Skoda continues to invest in the Superb, ensuring it remains a compelling option.
Mazda CX-80
Mazda has reinforced its reputation for safety with the CX-80, which topped its class in recent crash tests.
This follows five-star ratings for the CX-60, CX-5, and MX-30 electric car.
Edging out the Audi Q6 e-tron, the CX-80 earned impressive scores: 92% for adult occupant protection, 88% for child safety, 84% for pedestrian protection, and 79% for safety assists.
Unlike many rivals shifting entirely to electrification, Mazda offers the CX-80 with a rare straight-six diesel engine alongside a plug-in hybrid option.
Mercedes-Benz E-Class
The standout performer in Euro NCAP’s 2024 safety tests was the latest Mercedes-Benz E-Class, claiming both Best Executive Car and Overall Best Performer of the Year.
Put through Euro NCAP’s rigorous crash assessments, the E-Class achieved top-tier scores: 92% for adult occupant protection, 90% for child safety, 84% for pedestrian protection, and 87% for safety assists – the highest weighted average of the year.
While not the brand’s largest or most luxurious model, the E-Class remains a cornerstone of Mercedes-Benz, now in its tenth generation with a history dating back to 1947.
GWM Ora 03
No small family cars met Euro NCAP’s ‘best-in-class’ standards in 2024 or 2023, so the safest model in this category comes from an earlier round of testing.
The Ora 03, built by Great Wall Motors (GWM), highlights how Chinese brands have significantly improved crash safety in recent years.
Previously known as the Ora Funky Cat, the affordably priced electric car still delivers impressive safety results.
It scored 92% for adult occupant protection, 83% for child safety, 74% for pedestrian protection, and an outstanding 93% for safety assists.
Renault Clio
The last time Euro NCAP named a best-in-class supermini or city car was back in 2019—and unsurprisingly, it was a Renault.
Despite a setback in 2021 with the zero-star Zoe, Renault has a long-standing reputation for safety, dating back to the Laguna, which became the first-ever five-star Euro NCAP car in 2001.
The Clio has come a long way since then.
Even with today’s stricter testing standards, it delivered outstanding results, including a 96% score for adult occupant protection and 89% for child safety.
When it comes to choosing a car, safety should always be a top consideration.
The seven vehicles highlighted here represent the pinnacle of crash protection, advanced safety technology, and overall reliability on the road.
As manufacturers continue to push the boundaries of automotive safety, these cars offer peace of mind for drivers and passengers alike.
Whether you prioritise family-friendly features or cutting-edge technology, these models ensure you’re driving with confidence.
With rigorous testing and ongoing innovation, the safest cars on the market in 2025 set a new standard for vehicle security.
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