2027 Kia Telluride Achieves 2026 IIHS Top Safety Pick+ Award, Setting Industry Standard
In a remarkable achievement, the all-new 2027 Kia Telluride has garnered the esteemed designation of 2026 IIHS Top Safety Pick+. This accolade from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) identifies vehicles that excel in safety testing. The Telluride, Kia's flagship three-row SUV, exhibits outstanding performance in crash tests and safety features, contributing to its growing reputation in the automotive sector.
Kia has long prioritized safety in the Telluride, which is evident in its recent recognition. With this latest accomplishment, Kia boasts five models that have received the 2026 Top Safety Pick+ rating, aligning with the brand's ethos of producing reliable and secure vehicles. The recognized models include the 2027 Telluride, 2026 Kia K4, 2026 EV9, 2026 Sorento, and 2026 Sportage.
For 2026, the IIHS has raised its testing benchmarks, targeting not just overall vehicle safety, but also focusing on the protection of rear-seat passengers and the efficacy of crash avoidance mechanisms. In response to these revisions, the Telluride exhibits great resilience in tests such as small overlap front, moderate overlap front, and side tests. Notably, it received good ratings in headlight performance across all variants.
To achieve the TOP SAFETY PICK+ designation, vehicles must score well in a series of crashworthiness evaluations and feature effective front crash prevention systems. These systems must meet stringent standards in both pedestrian and vehicle-to-vehicle tests, ensuring comprehensive safety across various driving scenarios.
SeungKyu (Sean) Yoon, President and CEO of Kia North America, expressed his enthusiasm regarding the Telluride's safety accolades, stating that the vehicle has become synonymous with Kia's brand identity since its inception. The contribution of safety features to the Telluride’s success is significant, reflecting the brand's dedication to quality and innovation.
The 2027 Kia Telluride marks the beginning of its second generation, presenting enhancements in design, comfort, and technology. The SUV now boasts a larger footprint that not only increases interior space but also enhances cargo capacity. Access to the third row has been improved, making it easier for passengers to climb in and out. Additionally, the vehicle is available with a new turbo-hybrid powertrain, marrying performance and efficiency with 329 horsepower and 35 mpg combined on the EX FWD trim.
Kia's commitment to safety is further exemplified through its durable body structure, the inclusion of ten standard airbags (including a novel front-row center airbag), and innovative features like illuminated seatbelt buckles in the second row. The third-row seatbelts are enhanced with pre-tensioners, ensuring additional safety for passengers.
In terms of technology, Kia continues to lead with its Advanced Driver Assistance Systems, which have been expanded in the 2027 Telluride. For example, features like Hands on Detection, Lane Following Assist 2, and an In-Cabin Camera significantly enhance driving safety. Moreover, Parking Distance Warning across both forward and reverse directions adds convenience and assists drivers in navigating tight spaces.
Located in Irvine, California, Kia America continually sets high standards in automotive quality surveys and has been recognized as one of TIME World's Most Sustainable Companies for 2026. As an official automotive partner of the NBA and WNBA, Kia offers a diverse lineup of gasoline, hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and electric vehicles through a vast dealer network across the U.S.
With strong sales trends and a consistent commitment to innovation and safety, Kia America is ready to maintain its momentum in the automotive market through groundbreaking releases like the 2027 Telluride. The brand's continued investment in safety and technology promises to keep it at the forefront of the automotive industry.