Family vehicles for 2017
Year after year, family cars are becoming safer. The IIHS tests all family vehicles with a barrage of crash tests and considers the advanced safety features that can be purchased to offer Top Safety Pick+ ratings. In 2015, there were 33 cars awarded the Top Safety Pick+ designation, and in 2016 this jumped to 50 cars.
Ford did particularly well, with the mighty Ford F-150 being one of the vehicles awarded a Top Safety Pick+ for “Large Pickups”. It’s important to note too that crash tests have been steadily getting harder, so this is no mean feat.
So, when looking to purchase a safe family vehicle in 2017, you’re spoiled for choice. We’ve put together a list of some of the safest vehicles available to you today, independently tested by the IIHS and the NHTSA.
1 - 2017 Ford Fusion
The first 2017 midsize sedan to be awarded the Top Safety Pick+ denomination, the 2017 Ford Fusion can be equipped with a front crash prevention system that has been rated as ‘Superior” by the IIHS. It also managed to ace all crash tests, getting the highest possible score. This beats its high score from last year and sees the 2017 Ford Fusion as a top choice for families looking for a midsize sedan.2 – 2017 Kia Sorento
Midsize SUVs are highly popular with families in 2017, and the Kia Sorento is a good choice if you’re looking for one of the safest out there. It got the highest possible score in IIHS testing when the optional front crash prevention system is included. Starting at around $25,000, it’s not too hard on the wallet, either.3 – 2017 Audi Q7
The Audi Q7 disappeared off the radar in 2016, but now it’s back to almost ace the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety’s crash and safety tech test. It got full marks for its roof strength, protection from side, rollover, and front overlap collisions, and top marks for its head restraints that reduce the chance of whiplash injury. Even its child seat anchors were praised for their ease of use. Choose the higher trim levels and your family will be protected further with a top view camera system and head-up display.
4 – 2017 Lincoln MKZ
In 2016, the Lincoln MKZ didn’t manage to pick up the coveted Top Safety Pick+ award, but this year it is flying high after a number of improvements. The MKZ has been awarded the top marks possible, and if you choose its optional front crash prevention system you’ll be getting a Top Safety Pick+ car to drive your precious human cargo around in. It’s also worth noting the new Lincoln MKZ looks great, with a new grille, and it’s now available with a hybrid engine. It’s perhaps the best luxury midsize car you can buy for a family in 2017 if safety and luxury are your prime concerns.5 – 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe
The Santa Fe from Hyundai is an example of an SUV that leaves much of the competition in the dust when it comes to safety. Previously a middle-ground choice, the safety ratings for the Santa Fe in 2017 make is a prime choice for sensible parents. Every crash test has been aced, and for the first time ever the Santa Fe has been awarded a Top Safety Pick+.6 – 2017 Audi A4
Surprisingly topping the list of safe cars in 2017 – considering the previous model performed poorly in front overlap tests – the 2017 Audi A4 is as safe as it stylish. You’ve now no reason not to buy one for your family, except perhaps the hefty price tag.7 – Kia Sportage
Since Hyundai and Kia became sister companies in 2014, Kia has been making great inroads in the U.S. market, enticing buyers with a long warranty. The 2017 Kia Sportage is not just a good value buy, it's as safe as houses, evidenced by its top scores in all IIHS tests and ‘Superior’ rating for its crash mitigation system. However, the headlights on the Kia Sportage will need to be upgraded for it to reach the heights of safety the rest of our lineup offers.Conclusion
The safety of your family when you’re driving is the most important thing to you, so when you’re choosing your next family vehicle take a look at how its safety rating stack ups against these seven safe automobiles. It could just save your life one day.
This is a sponsored post brought to you by Blue Springs Ford
