Get ready for some exciting news in the automotive world! Safety first, always! Today, we're celebrating the incredible achievements of Hyundai Motor Group, who have once again proven their commitment to keeping us all safe on the roads. But here's where it gets controversial... or at least, it might spark some interesting debates!
The 2026 Hyundai IONIQ 9 and 2026 Kia Sportage have earned the prestigious 2025 IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK+ (TSP+) honors. That's right, these vehicles have aced the crash safety evaluations conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, solidifying their reputation as top-notch safe choices. And this is the part most people miss: the IIHS has raised the bar with stricter safety standards for 2025, so these achievements are even more impressive!
The IONIQ 9 has achieved the highest possible ratings across all IIHS categories, including front and side crash protection and forward collision prevention. It's like a superhero car, protecting its passengers with exceptional performance. The Sportage, on the other hand, has improved upon its previous rating, thanks to some clever enhancements to its collision prevention systems and headlights.
But wait, there's more! The IONIQ 9 and Sportage have also received top safety ratings from the Korea New Car Assessment Program (KNCAP), proving their safety leadership isn't just limited to one market. And the 2026 SANTA CRUZ? Well, it's a real standout, being the only small pickup in its segment to earn a TSP or higher rating. Talk about setting the bar high!
With these latest accolades, Hyundai Motor Group leads the global industry with a whopping 18 models awarded TSP+ or TSP ratings in 2025. That's an impressive feat, and it's no surprise that they've claimed the top spot for IIHS safety awards for two consecutive years.
Now, here's where things get interesting. When we break it down by brand, Hyundai Motor takes the top spot among mainstream brands, while Kia follows closely behind in sixth place. But it's Genesis that really steals the show, leading the premium brand category and ranking third overall across all evaluated brands.
Earlier this year, several other Hyundai Motor Group models also earned TSP+ ratings, including the Hyundai IONIQ 5, IONIQ 6, and more. It's clear that safety is a priority for this group, and they're consistently delivering on their promise to keep us safe.
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) is an independent organization dedicated to reducing road-related deaths and injuries. They conduct rigorous research and evaluations to ensure that vehicles meet the highest safety standards. And with the updated 2025 testing protocol, they've really upped the ante, introducing more stringent rear-passenger safety evaluations and updated crash tests.
To earn the TSP+ or TSP rating, vehicles must excel in various categories, including small overlap front and side crash tests, forward collision prevention, and headlight performance. It's a tough challenge, but these Hyundai and Kia models have risen to the occasion.
So, there you have it! Hyundai Motor Group continues to impress with their dedication to safety. But here's the real question: Do you think these safety achievements are enough to convince more people to choose these brands? Or do you believe there's still room for improvement? Let's discuss in the comments and share our thoughts on this important topic!
