6 of the Safest Small Cars for 2024

Finding a car that is both small and safe is not an easy task. Small cars are sometimes considered less safe due to their smaller size and weight, which can result in more severe damage in collisions with larger vehicles. Here, we highlight six of the safest small cars for 2024: the Renault Clio, Toyota Yaris, Toyota Aygo, Volkswagen Polo, Smart ForTwo, and SEAT Arona. These vehicles have been recognised as the safest small cars of 2024 achieving 4 and 5 stars in the Euro NCAP safety rating.

Visit Carsa today to explore these top-rated safest small cars and find the perfect one for you. Our experts are here to help you make the best possible decision to ensure you drive away in a vehicle that meets all your safety needs. Contact us or visit our showroom for a test drive and more information.

1. Renault Clio

The Renault Clio is a popular choice among people looking for the safest small cars. In 2001 Renault Clio received its first 5 star rating from Euro NCAP. In 2019, next to Audi A1, Renault Clio, has yet again among all tested, been acclaimed by Euro NCAP as one of the safest small cars earning 5 stars. Key safety features of the lates 2024 model include:

ABS with Emergency Brake Assistance: Enhances braking performance during emergency stops.

Camera and Radar Systems: Enable advanced safety features such as lane keep assist, traffic sign recognition with speed alert, distance warning, and emergency braking.

Airbags: Provides protection for both front and rear passengers.

Optimised Vision: Standard 100% LED front headlamps, automatic high/low beam, and a day/night interior mirror ensure optimal visibility in various driving conditions.

These features, combined with high scores in crash tests, make the Renault Clio a top choice for safety-conscious drivers seeking the safest small cars.

2. Toyota Yaris

In 2020 Toyota Yaris has earned a five-star rating from the NHTS in crash-testing. Since then, Toyota Yaris continues to be a leader in the safest small cars segment. Additionally, in 2024 the car was awarded 5 stars from Euro NCAP for its safety in life threatening situations. safeThe 2024 Yaris comes equipped with Toyota Safety Sense, which includes:

Pre-Collision System: Detects and helps prevent potential collisions with vehicles or pedestrians.

Lane Departure Alert: Warns the driver if the vehicle begins to drift out of its lane.

Adaptive Cruise Control: Maintains a set distance from the car ahead, enhancing safety on highways.

Automatic High Beams: Adjusts the headlight beams automatically to improve nighttime visibility.

With these advanced safety features and strong performance in crash tests, the Yaris is a reliable and safe option for all types of drivers, solidifying its position among the safest small cars.

3. Volkswagen Polo

Volkswagen Polo is another one in our list of the safest small cars. It has received 5 star rating from Euro NCAP, with an 96% adult occupant rating and 85% for children. During the crash test, both the side barrier test and the more dangerous side pole impact, Volkswagen Polo performed really well among other safest small cars and Volkswagen Polo scored maximum points. Tests performed on the front seats and head restraints showed they offer excellent protection against whiplash injuries during rear-end collisions. The 2024 Polo includes:

Front Assist: With City Emergency Braking and Pedestrian Monitoring.

Blind Spot Detection: Alerts the driver to vehicles in their blind spots.

Post-Collision Braking: Automatically applies the brakes after a collision to prevent secondary impacts.

Standard Safety Features: ISOFIX car seat points, speed assistance, and automatic emergency braking systems.

4. Smart ForTwo

On this list, Smart might be a surprising choice, due to its small size. Smart ForTwo is surpassing expectations for such a compact vehicle achieving an impressive four star Euro NCAP safety rating. Despite its small size, the Smart ForTwo has a well-designed Tridion safety cell that maintains structural integrity during impacts, protecting occupants by absorbing and distributing crash forces effectively. Key safety features include:

Tridion Safety Cell: A rigid passenger cell designed to protect occupants in a crash.

Crosswind Assist: Stabilises the car in strong crosswinds.

Brake Assist: Provides additional braking power during emergency stops.

Airbags: Smart comes equipped with two traditional airbags, two additional airbags to protect the occupants pelvis and two more to protect the head.

Despite its compact size, the Smart ForTwo has been rated as one of the safest small cars due to these features.

5. SEAT Arona

Seat Arona is a small SUV that combines the agility of a small car with the spaciousness of the SUV. As one of the safest small cars available, the new SEAT Arona, in 2022 earned 5 stars from Euro NCAP safety rating. In the full-width rigid-barrier impact test, the SEAT Arona performed really well, providing good or adequate protection for both the driver and passenger. Seat Arona scored slightly better than its sibling model, the Ibiza. The key features include:

Adaptive Cruise Control: Enhances safety during long drives by maintaining a set speed and distance from the vehicle ahead.

Park Assist: Automatically steers the car into parking spaces.

Tiredness Recognition System: Monitors the driver’s fatigue levels and suggests breaks.

Multiple Airbags: Provides protection for all passengers.

6. Toyota Aygo

In 2022, Euro NCAP crash tested the Toyota Aygo X and awarded it a commendable four out of five stars for its overall performance. The Aygo X achieved a 78% rating in both adult and child occupant protection categories, demonstrating strong safety for passengers. Additionally, it scored 81% for safety assistance systems, reflecting its advanced safety technologies and features designed to prevent accidents. Key safety features include:

Stability Control: Helps maintain control during sudden maneuvers.

Hill Start Assist: Prevents the car from rolling back on inclines.

Reversing Camera: Aids in safe parking and reversing.

Airbags: Provides comprehensive protection for all passengers.

The Aygo’s safety technology and compact design make it perfect for city driving and for those looking for the safest small cars.

Choose Carsa if You are Looking for the Safest Small Cars

When looking for the safest small cars, there are a few vehicles that meet the NCAP standards. The Renault Clio, Toyota Yaris, Toyota Aygo, Volkswagen Polo, Smart ForTwo, and SEAT Arona have all demonstrated excellent safety ratings. Each of these models have achieved 4 or 5 stars from Euro NCAP safety rating, being named among the safest small cars based on their performance in crash tests. All our vehicles go through a rigorous inspection to ensure they are in the best possible condition. Additionally, all cars available at Carsa come with a complimentary warranty to you don’t have to worry about any repairs for long after you purchase a Car from us.

Visit Carsa today to explore these top-rated safest small cars and find the perfect one for you. Our experts are here to help you make an informed decision and ensure you drive away in a vehicle that meets your safety needs. Contact us for a test drive and more information. Your safety is our priority!