When buying a used car, performance and price often take center stage—but safety should never be overlooked. Thanks to technological advancements, many pre-owned vehicles now come equipped with high-end safety features, offering peace of mind without breaking the bank. Whether it’s automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, or blind-spot monitoring, modern safety systems have redefined what to expect in a reliable used car.
For budget-conscious buyers, certified pre-owned vehicles are a smart option. They offer not just safety and quality, but also financial benefits, like low-interest auto loans, extended warranties, and dealership service perks. In fact, many dealerships offer excellent financing solutions tailored for certified used cars.
Learn more about the Benefits of Low-Interest Loans for Certified Pre-Owned Cars to get the best value and protection for your purchase.
Ready to explore your options? Below are the top 10 used cars with advanced safety features that combine value, technology, and reliability.
1. Honda Accord
The Honda Accord continues to be a best-seller for a reason. Models from 2018 and newer come standard with Honda Sensing®, which includes:
- Collision Mitigation Braking
- Road Departure Mitigation
- Lane Keeping Assist
- Adaptive Cruise Control
With a sleek design and outstanding safety ratings, the Accord is perfect for families and commuters alike.
2. Toyota Camry
The Toyota Camry is not just reliable; it’s packed with safety features. Starting from 2018, the Toyota Safety Sense™ suite became standard:
- Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection
- Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist
- Automatic High Beams
- Dynamic Radar Cruise Control
If you’re buying a pre-owned vehicle like the Camry, you’re getting excellent value and modern protection in one package.
3. Subaru Outback
Known for its all-wheel drive and rugged build, the Subaru Outback also excels in safety. Subaru’s EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology features:
- Pre-Collision Braking
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Lane Departure Warning
If you want a reliable crossover with great crash test scores, the Outback is a strong contender.
4. Mazda CX-5
The CX-5 offers a luxurious feel and advanced safety without the luxury price. Recent models are equipped with:
- Smart Brake Support
- Blind Spot Monitoring
- Rear Cross Traffic Alert
- Lane Departure Warning
The CX-5 is perfect for those wanting an upscale interior, fuel efficiency, and high-tech safety features.
5. Hyundai Sonata
Don’t overlook the Hyundai Sonata. Starting with 2018 models, Hyundai included SmartSense safety tech such as:
- Driver Attention Warning
- Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist
- Lane Keeping Assist
- Smart Cruise Control
Sonata’s balance of affordability and safety tech makes it ideal for budget-minded drivers.
6. Ford Fusion
Ford’s midsize sedan offers advanced tech and solid safety scores. Look for models from 2017 onwards with the Ford Co-Pilot360™ suite:
- Automatic Emergency Braking
- Blind Spot Information System
- Rear View Camera
- Lane-Keeping System
The Fusion also handles well, making it a favorite among city and highway drivers.
7. Nissan Rogue
Compact yet spacious, the Nissan Rogue from 2018 onward includes Nissan Safety Shield® 360:
- Rear Automatic Braking
- Blind Spot Warning
- Lane Departure Warning
- High Beam Assist
The Rogue is a favorite among small families and offers great cargo space, too.
8. Kia Sorento
The Sorento is a midsize SUV that blends versatility with cutting-edge safety. Features available in newer models include:
- Forward Collision Warning
- Smart Cruise Control
- Surround View Monitor
- Parking Distance Warning
Kia’s value-for-money proposition is unmatched, making the Sorento a wise used SUV pick.
9. Chevrolet Equinox
This compact SUV is often overlooked but packs a punch when it comes to safety. Equipped with Chevy Safety Assist, newer Equinox models offer:
- Front Pedestrian Braking
- Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning
- Following Distance Indicator
- IntelliBeam® Auto High Beams
Reliable and fuel-efficient, the Equinox is a fantastic all-around choice.
10. Volkswagen Tiguan
A premium-feeling SUV at a great price, the Tiguan offers strong safety systems such as:
- Autonomous Emergency Braking
- Pedestrian Monitoring
- Rear Traffic Alert
- Blind Spot Monitor
The Tiguan is great for those who want German engineering paired with family-friendly safety features.
Why Advanced Safety Features Matter
Choosing a used car with modern safety tech isn’t just about ticking boxes—it’s about protecting yourself and your loved ones. Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) help reduce accidents, minimize injury severity, and even lower insurance premiums.
From automatic emergency braking to lane-keeping assistance, these technologies have saved lives and are now widely available in used vehicles under $25,000. It’s no longer necessary to buy new to drive safely.
How to Get the Best Deal on a Safe Used Car
When you’re shopping for a pre-owned vehicle, always:
- Ask for a vehicle history report
- Check crash-test ratings (NHTSA or IIHS)
- Look for certified pre-owned (CPO) options
- Book a test drive to check performance and comfort
Ready to make the smart move? Book a Test Drive today and experience these safety features firsthand.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a used car doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice safety. With so many models offering advanced driver assistance systems, buyers can now enjoy the peace of mind that comes from top-tier protection—without the hefty price tag of a brand-new car.
Whether you’re searching for a sedan like the Accord, a compact SUV like the Rogue, or a family-ready crossover like the Outback, these top 10 picks ensure you’re not just getting from point A to B—you’re getting there safely.
Explore your options, consider the financial perks of low-interest certified pre-owned loans, and find your next car with confidence.