Consumer Reports is a trusted source for vehicle safety, combining in-house testing with owner feedback. However, some models highly rated by other organizations don't make its top list due to unique, stringent criteria.
For example, no full-size SUVs or pickups qualify as top-tier. The publication's auto testing director notes these larger vehicles "take longer to stop and don't handle as nimbly," increasing crash risk compared to smaller, more agile models.
Consumer Reports also prioritizes Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) crash tests over NHTSA ratings, finding IIHS's six tests more reflective of real-world crashes than NHTSA's four.
Beyond crash performance, ease of using features like climate control is a key safety factor. Overly complex systems in brands like Volvo, Mercedes-Benz, and Volkswagen can distract drivers. Mazda, with three models in the top ten, excels by balancing usability, standardized safety features, and strong crash test results.