If safety sits at the top of your checklist, this guide to the safest used SUVs will help you compare crash test scores, active safety tech, and ownership factors that matter for daily driving. We translate ratings from IIHS and NHTSA into clear takeaways and highlight years and trims known for standout protection. You will also learn how features like automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, and lane keeping assist can reduce risk and boost confidence behind the wheel.

Whether you need a compact SUV for city commutes or a three row family hauler, you will find practical advice, model shortlists, and inspection tips to choose a vehicle that fits your budget and safety goals. When you are ready to compare options, browse our used-inventory, review deep dives on the research-page-template, and check recent insights on the blog.

How We Identify the Safest Used SUVs

Our recommendations focus on SUVs with strong IIHS ratings, especially Top Safety Pick or Top Safety Pick Plus, along with 4 star or 5 star overall NHTSA ratings where available. We also consider availability and reliability of advanced driver assistance systems, roof strength, head restraint and seat evaluations, and headlights that earn Good or Acceptable ratings. Finally, we factor in owner feedback, long term durability expectations, and cost of ownership to help you find safe choices that remain affordable to run.

Safest Used SUVs by Category and Budget

Availability and pricing vary by region, trim, and mileage. Always confirm safety equipment on the exact vehicle by VIN, and recheck ratings for your model year and headlights. Use our used-cars-with-best-crash-test-ratings and most-reliable-used-suvs resources for more detail.

Compact SUVs - Strong all around protection and efficiency

Midsize Two Row SUVs - More space with top tier safety

Three Row Family SUVs - Safety for more passengers

Luxury SUVs - Advanced driver aids and structure

Strong Safety on a Budget

If you are shopping below common price thresholds, consider these years and trims often praised for safety per dollar. Always verify the presence of AEB and quality headlights on the specific vehicle.

See more budget picks on best-used-suvs-under-15000 and best-used-suvs-under-20000.

Safety Features That Matter Most

Newer safety tech can prevent or lessen collisions, but feature names vary by brand. Ask for documentation and test each system during your drive. Calibrate cameras and radar after windshield or bumper work. Confirm that safety lights are off and no stored codes exist after a diagnostic scan.

For deeper comparisons, review our safest-used-cars page and segment specific guides like best-used-3-row-suvs and best-used-awd-vehicles.

Pre Purchase Safety Checklist

Combine ratings with a thorough inspection. Safety depends on condition, not just design. Use this checklist during your viewing and test drive.

Our service team can help with inspections and calibrations. Learn more on schedule-service and consider coverage options on extended-warranty-for-used-cars.

AWD vs Tires for Safety

All wheel drive helps with traction when moving, but it does not shorten stopping distances on ice or snow. The most important upgrade for winter safety is a quality set of winter tires. If you live in a snow belt state, combine AWD with winter tires for the best confidence. See our regional guides on best-used-vehicles-for-winter-driving and best-used-cars-for-snow.

Ownership Costs and Safety

Lower insurance premiums and maintenance costs support long term safety because you can afford to keep systems in top shape. Compare models on used-cars-with-low-insurance-costs and used-cars-with-lowest-cost-of-ownership. If financing, review rates and terms on payment-options and applications. If you have a trade, estimate value on value-my-trade.

Compare More Top Lists and Research

Cross shop safe picks with other smart buys to find the right blend of safety, reliability, features, and price. Continue your research with these related pages and our dealership info.

Helpful Resources

Use these internal links to continue research and plan next steps.

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