When it comes to choosing a new vehicle, safety is often one of the top priorities. With ANCAP safety ratings providing peace of mind, here are our top picks of the five safest cars in New Zealand across different categories: hatchback, ute, SUV, sedan, and electric vehicle (EV). Each car is known for its top safety performance, making them top choices for safety-conscious drivers.
1. Safest Hatchback: Toyota Corolla
- Price: Starting from $37,290
- Seats: 5
- ANCAP Safety Rating: 5 stars
- Why It’s Safe: The Toyota Corolla is packed with advanced safety features such as Toyota Safety Sense, which includes Pre-Collision Safety with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Departure Alert, and Adaptive Cruise Control. Its robust build makes it one of the safest hatchbacks on the road.
2. Safest Ute: Ford Ranger
- Price: Starting from $56,490
- Seats: 5
- ANCAP Safety Rating: 5 stars
- Why It’s Safe: The Ford Ranger, a staple in New Zealand, is equipped with Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), Lane Keep Assist, and Trailer Sway Control. Whether you’re on the job site or adventuring in the backcountry, the Ranger provides top-notch safety.
3. Safest SUV: Hyundai Santa Fe
- Price: Starting from $74,990
- Seats: 7
- ANCAP Safety Rating: 5 stars
- Why It’s Safe: The Hyundai Santa Fe is a family favourite with safety features like Blind-Spot Collision Avoidance, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, and AEB. The Santa Fe also comes with a reinforced body structure designed to protect passengers in a collision.
4. Safest Station Wagon: Subaru Outback
- Price: Starting from $49,990
- Seats: 5
- ANCAP Safety Rating: 5 stars
- Why It’s Safe: Subaru’s all-wheel-drive system, along with its EyeSight Driver Assist technology, makes the Legacy a standout in the sedan category. Features like Lane Sway and Departure Warning, along with Pre-Collision Braking, make it a reliable choice for sedan buyers.
5. Safest Electric Vehicle (EV): Tesla Model 3
- Price: Starting from $63,900
- Seats: 5
- ANCAP Safety Rating: 5 stars
- Why It’s Safe: The Tesla Model 3 continues to set the standard for electric vehicle safety. With AEB, Lane Departure Avoidance, and a superior crash safety structure, the Model 3 is a top pick for those going green without compromising on safety.
Comparison Table: Top 5 Safest Cars in NZ
| Category | Car Model | Price (NZD) | Seats | ANCAP Rating | Key Safety Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hatchback | Toyota Corolla | $37,290 | 5 | 5 stars | Pre-Collision Safety, Lane Departure Alert, Adaptive Cruise |
| Ute | Ford Ranger | $56,490 | 5 | 5 stars | AEB, Lane Keep Assist, Trailer Sway Control |
| SUV | Hyundai Santa Fe | $74,990 | 7 | 5 stars | Blind-Spot Collision Avoidance, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert |
| Station Wagon | Subaru Outback | $49,990 | 5 | 5 stars | EyeSight Driver Assist, Lane Sway and Departure Warning |
| Electric Vehicle | Tesla Model 3 | $63,900 | 5 | 5 stars | AEB, Lane Departure Avoidance, Crash Safety Structure |
These vehicles offer a mix of advanced safety technologies and a proven track record in crash tests, ensuring that no matter what kind of car you’re after, you won’t have to compromise on safety. Choose the one that fits your needs and enjoy peace of mind on the roads!
