The safest cars tested in 2025: top models that keep you protected
January 14, 2026 by Siobhan Doyle
Car changing is a big deal
Euro NCAP’s 2025 safety test results are in – see which cars scored highest and lead the safety rankings for ‘best-in-class’.
Euro NCAP has named the ‘Best-in-Class’ cars for safety, and the 2025 results are in. These awards go to five-star vehicles with standard safety features that score highest across four areas: Adult Occupant, Child Occupant, Vulnerable Road User, and Safety Assist.
Last year was a big year for car safety. With more electric cars on the roads and advanced driver-assistance systems becoming standard, manufacturers must keep pace with new tech while meeting Euro NCAP’s strict safety tests.
Euro NCAP (European New Car Assessment Programme) tests new cars for safety, including how well they protect adults, children, and pedestrians, plus features such as automatic braking. Cars earn one to five stars, five being the safest, helping drivers choose safer vehicles and encouraging manufacturers to raise safety standards.
Dr Michiel van Ratingen, secretary general of Euro NCAP, says the ‘Best-in-Class’ awards help drivers choose the safest car for their needs, adding: “2025 has had its challenges, but despite this, it has been pleasing to observe that the car industry has remained committed to improving vehicle safety.”
But what car models were top performing in Euro NCAP’s tests in 2025? Read on to find out.
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Scores: Adult occupant (AO), Child Occupant (CO), Vulnerable Road Users (VRU), Safety Assist (SA)
Mercedes CLA
AO: 94% CO: 89% VRU: 93% SA: 85%
The new CLA impressed experts with a near-perfect Adult Occupant Protection (94%) rating and strong scores for Vulnerable Road User safety (93%), thanks to its advanced active bonnet and refined autonomous emergency braking (AEB) systems.
This stylish compact saloon offers a range of mild hybrid engines and a high-quality, spacious interior. Nearly identical to the award-winning CLA Electric, it combines comfort, practicality, and promising driving dynamics, making it a premium saloon that’s worth a look. The diesel engine option from the older model is no longer available though.
Tesla Model 3
AO: 90% CO: 93% VRU: 89% SA: 87%
From one saloon to another, this electric car achieved high marks across the board and scored highly in Child Occupant protection with 93%. Its Safety Assist tally of 87% also shows Tesla’s continued improvement of driver assistance safety features.
The Model 3 has earned its reputation as a go-to family electric car, offering up to 436 miles of range, impressive tech, and a smooth, quiet drive. However, it relies heavily on its touchscreen controls, which you may find a bit fiddly.
Tesla Model Y
AO: 91% CO: 93% VRU: 86% SA: 92%
Yes, there are two Teslas in this list! The company’s best-selling Model Y sets the gold standard for mid-sized SUVs, excelling in Child Occupant protection and Safety Assist tests with scores of 93% and 92%, respectively.
The Model Y is very roomy for both passengers and luggage, and the interior feels premium throughout. It also offers an impressive range of up to 387 miles and can charge from 0-80% in around 27 minutes. That being said, it might feel a little large for some UK roads.
Smart #5
AO: 88% CO: 93% VRU: 84% SA: 92%
A newcomer to the mid-size SUV class, the Smart #5 impressed Euro NCAP experts with a robust five-star safety rating, particularly shining in Child Occupant protection with a 93% score and 92% in Safety Assist.
It’s a rather handsome, rugged-looking SUV, roomy and high-tech, with a wall of screens and a huge 630-litre boot. Optional high-performance motors and ultra-fast charging make it practical and fun to drive, though the tech-heavy interior may feel a bit over the top for some.
Polestar 3
AO: 90% CO: 93% VRU: 79% SA: 83%
Continuing Polestar’s reputation for safety innovation, the Polestar 3 outperformed alternatives in the executive class. Its structural integrity, a Child Occupant Protection score of 93%, and suite of next-gen driver assistance technologies secure its place as the safest in its class.
This large SUV pairs ultra-cool styling with a modern, minimalist interior packed with tech. It’s spacious and a pleasure to drive in town, especially with the dual-motor version and air suspension, though its 484-litre boot is smaller than those of the BMW iX and Audi Q8 e-tron.
Mini Cooper Electric
AO: 89% CO: 87% VRU: 77% SA: 83%
Rounding out this list is proof that small cars can deliver big safety. Despite its compact size, the Mini Cooper Electric achieved high scores in structural crash testing, making it the safest choice in the supermini class assessed by Euro NCAP in 2025.
This upmarket little electric car is packed with character and is a joy to drive on twisty roads. Sure, it’s not the most practical and the infotainment system is a bit clunky, but it’s sure to put a smile on your face like few alternatives can.
Here’s a full breakdown of the Euro NCAP scores:
| Make and model | Adult Occupant | Child Occupant | Vulnerable Road User | Safety Assist |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mercedes-Benz CLA | 94% | 89% | 93% | 85% |
| Tesla Model 3 | 90% | 93% | 89% | 87% |
| Tesla Model Y | 91% | 93% | 86% | 92% |
| Smart #5 | 88% | 93% | 84% | 92% |
| Polestar 3 | 90% | 93% | 79% | 83% |
| Mini Cooper Electric | 89% | 87% | 77% | 79% |
Car change? Carwow!
Looking for a new set of wheels? With Carwow you can sell your car quickly and for a fair price – as well as find great offers on your next one. Whether you’re looking to buy a car brand new, are after something used or you want to explore car leasing options, Carwow is your one stop shop for new car deals.
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