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n the ever-evolving landscape of automotive safety, Monash University Accident Research Centre (MUARC) has dropped the curtain on its 2023 used car safety ratings, and the results are illuminating. Drawing insights from a vast pool of real-world crash data spanning 34 years, MUARC has meticulously analysed 518 car models to pinpoint the safest rides on the Aussie roads.
The annual safety ratings, backed by statistical analysis, delve into crash data involving a staggering 9 million vehicles and 2.5 million injured road users across Australia and New Zealand from 1987 to 2021. This year's ratings introduce a "overall safety" category, providing a holistic view of the average risk of fatalities or serious injuries for drivers, passengers, and road users outside the vehicle.
Out of the extensive line up, 106 models earned a stellar 5-star rating for "overall safety." An additional 87 secured the coveted "safer pick" title, boasting 5 stars for driver and overall safety and a minimum of 3 stars in the remaining categories. However, the cream of the crop consists of just 20 models that clinched the coveted 5 stars across all four categories, with automakers Toyota and Mazda dominating this elite group.
The Top 20 Safest Used Cars in Australia:
Audi A4/S4/RS4/A4 Allroad (MY 2008-2015)
Honda CR-V (MY 2017-2021)
Honda Odyssey (MY 2013-2021)
Jeep Cherokee (MY 2014-2021)
Kia Cerato (MY 2018-2021)
Land Rover Range Rover Sport (MY 2005-2013)
Mazda 3 (MY 2013-2019)
Mazda 6 (MY 2012-2021)
Mazda CX-3 (MY 2015-2021)
Mazda CX-5 (MY 2017-2021)
Mazda CX-9 (MY 2016-2021)
Mitsubishi Outlander (MY 2012-2021)
Mitsubishi Pajero Sport (MY 2015-2021)
Mercedes Benz E-Class (MY 2009-2016)
Subaru Impreza/XV (MY 2016-2021)
Toyota C-HR (MY 2016-2021)
Toyota Camry (MY 2017-2021)
Toyota Corolla (MY 2018-2021)
Toyota RAV4 (MY 2019-2021)
Volkswagen Tiguan (MY 2016-2021)
The data underlines a remarkable 33% average reduction in the risk of fatal or serious injuries when comparing vehicles produced in 2001 to those in 2021.
Unsurprisingly, the latest cars equipped with cutting-edge safety technology took the lead, exemplifying the industry's commitment to enhancing road safety. However, a few older models, like the 2005-2013 Range Rover Sport and the 2009-2016 Mercedes-Benz E-Class, managed to hold their ground.
As Australians embark on their car-buying journey, armed with these comprehensive safety ratings, the focus on road safety takes centre stage, ushering in an era where informed choices drive safer travels. For a secure and confident ride, these top 20 safest cars stand as beacons of safety, offering peace of mind on every journey.
