Rust is likely not an option for most people using C++ yet. C++ has one huge advantage over almost every other language: its tools and eco system. MSVC++, Intel's ICC, GCC and LDC are all solid compilers where you will not paint yourself into a corner because of your tools.

D is more mature but still can't compete on tools since only a few languages can make that claim.

Your case is another big point. C++ can manage memory without raw pointers AND without garbage collection. It should be able to compile without a big runtime, but for some reason its modern dependencies are just as big as scripting languages.