Buying your first car is a monumental achievement, right up there with graduating or nailing that perfect omelette flip. But while style, price, and fuel efficiency all play a role in your decision, safety should be at the very top of the list. After all, a car that prioritizes protection lets you focus on the fun stuff, like road trips, rather than leaving you biting your nails over every lane change.

Luckily, automakers continue to up their game with models that make safety a priority. If you're on the market for a safe ride, check out these top contenders that blend peace of mind with some cool features.

The Icon of Reliability

Year after year, the Toyota Camry proves why it’s a favorite among buyers. This mid-size sedan is not only known for its reliability but also its devotion to safety. Packed with Toyota’s Safety Sense suite, the Camry offers driver assistance systems such as lane departure alert, adaptive cruise control, and pedestrian detection, all of which act like a tech-savvy co-pilot.

For new buyers, what sets the Camry apart is its ability to be approachable without feeling basic. It’s loaded with standard safety features that many competitors consider premium upgrades. And with strong crash-test ratings from organizations like the IIHS and NHTSA, this car earns its status as a dependable “shield on wheels.” Whether commuting to work or navigating unpredictable city traffic, the Camry has your back.

A Compact with Big Safety Features

If you want something smaller without sacrificing safety, look no further than the Honda Civic. This compact car feels like it’s saying, “Why shouldn’t a small vehicle have big ambitions?” Sporting Honda Sensing, the Civic comes with features like forward collision warning, road departure mitigation, and collision-mitigating braking.

Beyond numbers, driving this car feels light and agile, and its safety gadgets make it extra slip-proof on unpredictable roads. Whether you’re cruising along a coastal highway or tackling tight city corners, this zippy compact keeps you secure even when it’s showing its spunk. The Civic’s excellent build quality ensures that it performs well across various crash scenarios, putting nervous first-time buyers at ease.

And did we mention how fuel-efficient it is? Safety and gas money savings wrapped into one? That’s a win-win.

The Family-Friendly Option

SUV enthusiasts can rejoice because the Subaru Outback is a shining star in the realm of family-oriented options. Known for its rugged yet road-ready charm, the Outback also excels in the safety department. With standard all-wheel drive and unique features like Subaru’s EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, you’ll feel safe whether you’re picking up groceries or navigating a mountain pass.

EyeSight includes lane centering, advanced adaptive cruise control, and pre-collision braking, making it one of the most comprehensive driver assistance systems on the market. The Outback’s bigger size and higher seating position also contribute to its commanding sense of control. For anyone needing space to haul gear, groceries, or a couple of soccer bags, this safety-first SUV does it all.

And hey, with its off-road capabilities, you might even feel inspired to take a detour and see where the dirt roads lead. Just don’t forget the snacks!

A Luxury Option That Excels

Who says safety can’t be luxurious? Stepping into a Volvo XC40 feels less like driving and more like floating in a highly secure cloud. Volvo has long been synonymous with stringent safety standards, and the XC40 delivers in every way you’d expect.

Decked out with “City Safety,” Volvo’s trademark system includes pedestrian, cyclist, and large animal detection. It even has automatic braking to help avoid crashes. Add features like blind spot monitoring and a 360-degree camera, and it’s clear this compact luxury SUV values your safety from every angle.

The XC40’s sleek design and upscale interior are just bonuses. You don’t have to be cutting-edge in technology or design to earn safety points, but Volvo prefers delivering all of the above. For those ready to invest in something a bit more premium, the XC40 delivers style and security in one impressive package.

An Electric Marvel

The Tesla Model 3 might already be on your radar if you’re intrigued by electric vehicles, but did you know it’s one of the safest cars out there? Don’t be distracted by the high-tech vibes; its safety ratings are no less impressive than its cutting-edge design.

Equipped with Tesla’s advanced Autopilot feature, the Model 3 deliberately incorporates features like lane-keeping assistance, traffic-aware cruise control, and emergency braking. It even ranks highly in roof strength and passenger protection during accidents. Not only are you reducing your reliance on fossil fuels, but you’re also making a choice to prioritize your safety (and learn the subtle art of charging stations).

It’s not just about avoiding crashes. The Model 3 is built to redirect impact energy during accidents, minimizing potential injuries. High-tech safety? That’s a win for both cautious drivers and tech geeks alike.

Safety Features That Make the Difference

All of the cars above blend thoughtful engineering with essential safety. What these vehicles have in common isn’t just high crash-test ratings but cutting-edge tools that help prevent collisions altogether.

Here are a few key safety features to look out for when evaluating new cars:

  • Automatic emergency braking: An unsung hero, this tech can stop your car if it senses an imminent collision.
  • Blind spot monitoring: Keeps an extra eye on the areas where your visibility falters.
  • Lane departure warning: Alerts you if you’re unintentionally drifting out of your lane.
  • Adaptive cruise control: Maintains a safe following distance from cars ahead without constant braking.
  • Collision mitigation systems: Actively minimize potential damage in the event of an accident.

All these features might sound overwhelming, but trust us, they’re worth it when they step in to save the day. Investing in safety is like getting insurance for a smoother ride.

Why Safety Should Drive Your Decision

Buying a car for the first time is a mix of excitement and a little fear, will it support the life you want to build? Specs and conveniences are fine, but safety ensures you and your passengers make memories rather than mishaps. Cars that score high on safety give you that priceless gift of confidence, whether you’re cruising highways or meandering scenic backroads.

The vehicles showcased here don’t just protect in a crash; they help prevent accidents altogether, thanks to advanced driver assistance. These are cars built for modern drivers who know that owning the road isn’t about speed; it’s about safe navigation.

Drive Into Peace of Mind

Safety doesn’t have to come at the expense of style, efficiency, or budget. The Toyota Camry keeps you steady while staying affordable. The Honda Civic adds flair to your commutes. Subaru Outbacks make family trips both safe and roomy, while the Volvo XC40 protects luxury seekers. And for the eco-conscious, the Tesla Model 3 proves that going green doesn’t have to mean compromising on protection.

The next time you’re scoping out your future ride, remember one thing. While leather seats and touchscreens might be tempting, nothing beats knowing that your car is designed to keep you as safe as possible.