2025 Hyundai Models Earn IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK+ Awards for Superior Safety

• Hyundai continues to lead in safety with five models achieving the highest IIHS rating
• 2025 IIHS safety standards now place greater emphasis on second-row occupant protection
• Hyundai Motor Group secures a total of 12 IIHS TSP/TSP+ awards across its brands

Hyundai is setting the benchmark for automotive safety once again, earning TOP SAFETY PICK+ (TSP+) honors for five of its 2025 models from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The 2025 IONIQ 5, IONIQ 6, Kona (gas model), Tucson/Tucson Hybrid, and Santa Fe/Santa Fe Hybrid (built after November 2024) have all met the institute’s rigorous safety standards, securing the highest rating available.

The IIHS TSP and TSP+ awards recognize the safest vehicles in their respective categories, and Hyundai’s latest honors reflect the brand’s unwavering commitment to safety innovation.

Stricter IIHS Safety Standards for 2025

This year, IIHS introduced tougher testing criteria, particularly focusing on second-row occupant safety. To qualify for the TOP SAFETY PICK (TSP) designation, vehicles must earn an acceptable rating in the updated moderate overlap front test. To receive the prestigious TOP SAFETY PICK+ (TSP+) award, a vehicle must achieve a good rating in the same category.

“Hyundai is dedicated to keeping all passengers safe by integrating the latest safety advancements throughout our vehicles,” said Cole Stutz, Chief Safety Officer of Hyundai Motor North America. “With our SmartSense safety technology suite, we’ve enhanced features like advanced seat belt technology, rear occupant alerts, and additional side airbags to provide superior protection for back-seat passengers.”

IIHS Pushes for Greater Passenger Safety

The updated IIHS moderate overlap front test now includes a second crash-test dummy seated behind the driver, fully replacing the previous version of the test. This change emphasizes the importance of back-seat passenger protection.

“We’re continuously pushing automakers to build safer vehicles each year,” said IIHS President David Harkey. “Every model earning a 2025 IIHS safety award provides a high level of protection for both front and rear passengers.”

How Vehicles Earn the TSP+ Award

To qualify for a TSP+ rating, a vehicle must meet the following criteria:
✔ Good ratings in small overlap front and updated side crash tests
✔ Acceptable or good rating in pedestrian front crash prevention (evaluating both daytime and nighttime performance)
✔ All trims must include headlights with an acceptable or good rating

For additional details on the updated IIHS testing and award criteria, visit IIHS.org.