chatGPT:
The safest car in terms of authoritative safety ratings (like from the IIHS in the U.S., Euro NCAP in Europe, and NHTSA) and real-world accident statistics is generally one that combines top crash test results with excellent performance in real-world crash data from insurers or transportation safety bodies.
As of the latest data (2024–2025), the following car brands and models consistently top the charts for safety:
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Volvo XC90
• Why it’s among the safest:
• IIHS Top Safety Pick+
• Euro NCAP 5 stars
• Zero recorded fatalities in the U.S. in a multi-year study (IIHS)
• Advanced safety features: Pilot Assist, City Safety collision avoidance, robust structural safety
• Volvo has a brand mission that “no one should be killed or seriously injured in a new Volvo”
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Tesla Model Y
• Why it’s among the safest:
• NHTSA 5-star rating in all categories
• Euro NCAP 5-star rating
• Extremely low rollover risk due to low center of gravity
• Autopilot, emergency braking, and full suite of safety sensors
• Strong real-world crash survivability reports
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Subaru Outback / Subaru Ascent
• Why it’s among the safest:
• IIHS Top Safety Pick+
• High survival rate in real-world crashes (according to U.S. insurance data)
• Excellent crash structure and EyeSight driver assistance suite
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Mercedes-Benz E-Class / S-Class
• Why it’s among the safest:
• High-end safety systems like PRE-SAFE, advanced airbag deployment, and crash avoidance
• Very strong crash ratings globally
• Extensive use of driver-assist tech, night vision, and semi-autonomous features
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Audi Q8 e-tron / A6
• Why it’s among the safest:
• Excellent Euro NCAP results
• Extensive passive and active safety systems
• Crash mitigation systems standard
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Real-World Data Sources Supporting These Picks:
• IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) fatality reports
• NHTSA crash test data
• Euro NCAP reports
• Highway Loss Data Institute (HLDI) – tracks insurance loss data after real accidents