2026 Hyundai IONIQ 9 and Kia Sportage Attain Top Safety Ratings

In an impressive feat for automotive safety, the 2026 Hyundai IONIQ 9 and 2026 Kia Sportage (produced after May 2025) have both been awarded the esteemed 2025 IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK + (TSP+) rating. This accomplishment underscores Hyundai Motor Group's steadfast commitment to safety and innovation. Furthermore, it solidifies the Group's position as an industry leader with a total of 18 models achieving either TSP+ or TSP status this year.

Excellence in Safety Standards

The IIHS ratings reflect rigorous crash safety evaluations, where both models achieved the highest possible "Good" ratings across all categories, including crucial metrics such as front and side crash protection and advanced forward collision prevention systems. The advancements seen in the IONIQ 9 and Sportage cater to the latest IIHS protocols, which have become increasingly stringent. Notably, the Sportage upgraded its forward collision prevention features and headlight performance, helping it elevate from its previous 2024 TSP rating to the latest TSP+.

In addition to their accolades from the IIHS, both the IONIQ 9 and Sportage received high praise from the Korea New Car Assessment Program (KNCAP), conducted by the Korea Transportation Safety Authority, adding another layer to their safety credentials and demonstrating their competitive edge in both domestic and global markets.

A Leader in Automotive Safety

The 2026 Hyundai SANTA CRUZ is another highlight, as it stands as the only small pickup in its segment to achieve a TSP or higher rating. This emphasizes not only its robust crash protection but also its exceptional collision avoidance capabilities. As of October 2025, Hyundai Motor Group proudly boasts the largest number of TSP+ models, with a diverse lineup featuring nine from Hyundai, five from Genesis, and four from Kia.

Hyundai Motor enhances its reputation with consistent performance in safety evaluations, taking first place among mainstream brands and placing Kia sixth. Genesis leads in the premium brand sector and ranks third overall among all evaluated automotive brands.

Striving for Safety Innovation

Year-to-date achievements include multiple high-performing models from Hyundai Motor Group such as the IONIQ 5, IONIQ 6, KONA, TUCSON, SANTA FE, ELANTRA, and SONATA, alongside successful entries from the Genesis line and Kia, which have all received commendable TSP+ ratings. Notably, the updated IIHS testing criteria have introduced more stringent requirements this year, including enhanced evaluations for rear passenger safety. The addition of a rear-seat dummy representing a small female or 12-year-old child marks a pivotal move towards more accurately reflecting real-world injury risks, demonstrating the industry's move towards higher safety standards.

Vehicles must now achieve "Good" ratings in front crash tests and also secure at least an