#United States #Hyundai #Santa Cruz #IONIQ 9 #Fountain Valley

Hyundai's Safety Triumph: 2026 Models Recognized

In a significant achievement, Hyundai has added two more accolades to its roster of safety awards with the recognition of the 2026 IONIQ 9 and the 2026 Santa Cruz as frontrunners in automobile safety. The 2026 IONIQ 9 has proudly been designated as a Top Safety Pick Plus (TSP+) for 2025 by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), while the 2026 Santa Cruz has earned the title of Top Safety Pick (TSP) for the same year.

This recognition places Hyundai firmly at the forefront of vehicle safety, as the company now holds eight TSP+ designations and one TSP accolade, making it a leader in the automotive industry with a total of nine IIHS awards for 2025. These esteemed awards are not easily earned, reflecting the stringent testing and evaluation processes that vehicles must undergo to meet high safety standards.

Elevated Safety Standards

The IIHS has updated its testing criteria for 2025, particularly focusing on the safety of second-row occupants. The criteria now demand that vehicles achieve good ratings in both the small overlap front and side tests, alongside satisfactory ratings in pedestrian crash prevention evaluations conducted under various conditions, including both daytime and nighttime. The headlights must also meet acceptable standards across all trims.

To achieve a TSP rating, a vehicle needs to score at least an acceptable rating in the updated moderate overlap front test, while a TSP+ rating necessitates a good rating. This reflects a commitment to ensuring maximum safety for all passengers, particularly vulnerable second-row occupants.

Commitment to Innovation and Safety

"We are immensely proud that the IONIQ 9 and Santa Cruz have earned top recognition in the world's most prestigious automobile safety evaluations," stated Cole Stutz, the Chief Safety Officer at Hyundai Motor North America. He emphasized that these achievements reinforce the brand's ongoing commitment to producing vehicles that exemplify world-class safety, quality, and innovation.

Hyundai continues to expand its influence within the automotive market. The company is recognized not only for its robust line of vehicles but also for its role in supporting the economy with significant operations across the United States. These include the North American headquarters in California and the state-of-the-art Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama, contributing an impressive $20.1 billion annually to the U.S. economy and supporting approximately 190,000 jobs.

Future Forward

As Hyundai moves forward, the vehicle lineup reflects its dedication to blending safety with technology and modern design. The accolades received by the IONIQ 9 and Santa Cruz are part of Hyundai's broader strategy to enhance the safety features across all its offerings, ensuring peace of mind for consumers.

For more details about Hyundai’s safety standards and awards, visit IIHS.org. The automotive industry is ever-evolving, and as it progresses, Hyundai remains committed to being at the forefront of safety and innovation.

In conclusion, as consumers increasingly prioritize safety in their vehicle choices, Hyundai's recognition from the IIHS not only showcases its superior engineering but also reassures drivers that they are choosing a brand dedicated to their safety on the road.