Are Smart Cars Safe?

Why you can trust SafeWise
products considered
250+
research hours in 25+ in-home tests
10k+
years of combined experience
176+
homes and people protected
10M+

For over 11 years, SafeWise experts have conducted independent research and testing to create unbiased, human reviews. Learn how we test and review.

You’ve seen the small Smart Cars that zip around getting great gas mileage—and you’ve probably also heard horror stories about their safety ratings. While older models may have had some safety issues, 2018 Smart Cars are actually rated fairly safe according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

smart car
Stay Safe and become a SafeWise Insider!

Sign up for our free weekly newsletter to get the best safety news, product info, and deals.

By signing up, you agree to our Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy.

Smart Car Safety Ratings

The Smart ForTwo, the main 2018 model Smart Car, received a four-star NHTSA rating in its category. Some of its safety features include a hefty steel frame and high-tech front and side airbags.

It’s not just the NHTSA that rates the Smart ForTwo high either. The vehicle has received “good” marks from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) in the two areas that have been tested thus far.

What Is the Body of the Smart ForTwo Made Out Of?

In addition to having several safety features like Crosswind Assist and an electronic stability program, the car has a remarkably sturdy frame. The core is made from reinforced steel, with welded reinforcements inside the steel doors as well.

Is a Smart Car the Safest Option for Me and My Family?

When compared to other compact cars, the Smart ForTwo rates very well. However, larger cars will generally fare better in an accident than smaller cars—they have more weight behind them and are thus less likely to be pushed in a wreck. If you are looking for a safe and economical car, then a Smart Car is a great way to go; if overall safety is your main priority, then opting for a larger car may be a better solution.

If you are looking for a more fuel-efficient, compact car that is also safe, then you may want to look deeper into the Smart ForTwo. Additionally, check out our Car Safety Guide for more information about staying safe behind the wheel.

Related articles


Sources

  1. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, “Distracted Driving,” Accessed on October 6, 2021.
  2. Federal Communications Commission, “The Dangers of Distracted Driving,” May 26, 2020. Accessed on October 6, 2021.

Compare the top car safety products

Product
Best for
Price
Specs
Stand-out feature
Learn more
Read review
Best vehicle trackerOBD port plug-inMaintenance reminders
Best car alarm3,000 ft rangeRemote start
Diesel engine safe
Best dash cam4K Full HD

170° front and rear

Tolerates -20°F to 176°F
Best navigation system6.95 in. touchscreenVoice control
Steering wheel lockHardened steel

3 different sizes

Tamperproof lock
Best portable car jackLifts up to 15 in. and 3,000 lbs.Lightweight

Affordable

Amazon.com price as of post date. Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change. Read full disclaimer.

Celeste Tholen
Written by
Celeste has dedicated her decade-long career to reporting and reviews that help people make well-informed decisions. She oversees editorial strategy and production for SafeWise, with a goal to help everyone find the information they need to make their homes and lives safer. Prior to SafeWise, she worked as an editor and reporter for KSL and Deseret News. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Journalism. In her free time, she volunteers at the local botanical garden and writers for the community newspaper.

Recent Articles

woman adjusting thermostat in bright home
The Best Home Security Systems and Alarm Companies of 2024
After thousands of hours of tests and research, we picked Vivint and SimpliSafe as the...
""
The Best Home Security Systems in Canada 2025
Learn about 2025's best home security systems for Canada with research from SafeWise experts. From...
Neighbourhood homes in the United Kingdom
The Best Home Alarm Systems in the UK in 2024
After testing 25+ of the best home alarm systems in the UK and evaluating over...
small yellow single family home
Abode vs Ring: Which security system is better?
Abode reigns over Ring in this DIY system face-off, but it’s not a clean sweep....