Honda Accord edges Civic and CR-V in IIHS safety comparison
Honda Accord comes out on top in IIHS safety comparison
Honda Accord edges Civic and CR-V in IIHS safety comparison
IIHS testing shows the Honda Civic, Accord and CR-V are all strong performers for crash protection, but the Accord stands out for its more consistent all-round safety. Headlight performance remains a key separator across trims.
2026-04-18T12:37:02+03:00
2026-04-18T12:37:02+03:00
2026-04-18T12:37:02+03:00
Honda Civic, Accord and CR-V are widely regarded as some of the safest vehicles on the market, but IIHS testing shows there are still meaningful differences between them. All three models earned top marks for structural strength, though the final verdict comes down to the details.What the crash tests showedIn all major evaluations, including front and side impacts, the Civic, Accord and CR-V received a Good rating. That points to a high level of protection for both driver and passengers regardless of model.Even so, the larger Accord holds a slight advantage thanks to its extra mass and size, something that matters especially in collisions with other vehicles.Where the differences appearThe main gap shows up in crash-avoidance systems. All three models come with the Honda Sensing suite, including automatic emergency braking and lane-keeping assist, and all post solid results in testing.But the decisive factor is the headlights. On base versions, they often earn only an Acceptable rating, which can keep a model from securing the top Top Safety Pick+ award. Upgraded headlights are available only on more expensive trims.Verdict: Accord leads the packThe Honda Accord emerged as the most consistently safe option. It combines a strong body structure, effective driver-assistance technology and more predictable lighting performance across the range.The Civic remains a compelling pick in the compact segment, while the CR-V continues to make sense as a practical SUV. Even so, it is the Accord that delivers the most balanced protection without forcing buyers into extra-cost options.All three Honda models are safe, but buyers should look beyond the headline rating and pay attention to the exact trim level. Details such as headlight performance can make a crucial difference in real-world driving.
IIHS testing shows the Honda Civic, Accord and CR-V are all strong performers for crash protection, but the Accord stands out for its more consistent all-round safety. Headlight performance remains a key separator across trims.
Michael Powers, Editor
Honda Civic, Accord and CR-V are widely regarded as some of the safest vehicles on the market, but IIHS testing shows there are still meaningful differences between them. All three models earned top marks for structural strength, though the final verdict comes down to the details.
What the crash tests showed
In all major evaluations, including front and side impacts, the Civic, Accord and CR-V received a Good rating. That points to a high level of protection for both driver and passengers regardless of model.
Even so, the larger Accord holds a slight advantage thanks to its extra mass and size, something that matters especially in collisions with other vehicles.
Where the differences appear
The main gap shows up in crash-avoidance systems. All three models come with the Honda Sensing suite, including automatic emergency braking and lane-keeping assist, and all post solid results in testing.
But the decisive factor is the headlights. On base versions, they often earn only an Acceptable rating, which can keep a model from securing the top Top Safety Pick+ award. Upgraded headlights are available only on more expensive trims.
Verdict: Accord leads the pack
The Honda Accord emerged as the most consistently safe option. It combines a strong body structure, effective driver-assistance technology and more predictable lighting performance across the range.
The Civic remains a compelling pick in the compact segment, while the CR-V continues to make sense as a practical SUV. Even so, it is the Accord that delivers the most balanced protection without forcing buyers into extra-cost options.
All three Honda models are safe, but buyers should look beyond the headline rating and pay attention to the exact trim level. Details such as headlight performance can make a crucial difference in real-world driving.
