2025 Hyundai Lineup Earns Five TOP SAFETY PICK+ Awards
March 13 2025,
Hyundai has secured an impressive achievement with five vehicles earning the distinguished TOP SAFETY PICK+ rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The 2025 IONIQ 5, IONIQ 6, Kona, Tucson, and Santa Fe have all received this recognition, highlighting Hyundai's focus on creating vehicles that offer superior protection.
The 2025 IIHS testing criteria now include tougher standards for rear passenger safety, making these awards particularly noteworthy. Each vehicle demonstrated exceptional performance across all evaluation categories, including the new tests designed to assess second-row occupant protection.
IIHS Testing Evolution
Safety standards continue to advance, and the IIHS has responded by updating its testing protocols. The moderate overlap front test now features a second test dummy placed in the rear seat behind the driver—a significant change that addresses the safety needs of all vehicle occupants.
IIHS President David Harkey explains the importance of this update: "We're once again challenging automakers to make their new models even safer than those they were building a year ago."
For vehicles to qualify for the TOP SAFETY PICK+ designation, they must receive a "good" rating in this enhanced test, along with excellent performance in several other categories:
- Small overlap front crash evaluations
- Updated side impact tests
- Pedestrian detection systems that work in both daylight and darkness
- Quality headlights on all trim levels
Family Safety Priorities
Rear passenger protection takes center stage in these latest evaluations. Hyundai has responded with strategic safety enhancements throughout their vehicles:
"With our suite of SmartSense advanced safety and connectivity features, we recognized the added benefit of incorporating advanced seat belt technology and other safety innovations," notes Cole Stutz, chief safety officer at Hyundai Motor North America.
These innovations include specialized rear occupant alert systems and additional side airbags specifically designed to protect those in back seats. The result is a vehicle cabin where safety extends equally to every seating position.
Electric and Conventional Excellence
The five TOP SAFETY PICK+ winners span Hyundai's diverse vehicle lineup:
- The electric IONIQ 5 and IONIQ 6 show that cutting-edge electric vehicles can deliver exceptional safety alongside their environmental benefits.
- The Kona combines urban-friendly dimensions with comprehensive safety features, proving that compact SUVs need not compromise on protection.
- Families choosing the Tucson or Santa Fe (available in both conventional and hybrid versions) gain spacious versatility paired with top-tier safety credentials.
Industry-Leading Achievement
This safety success extends beyond these individual models. Hyundai Motor Group leads the industry with 12 total vehicles earning either TOP SAFETY PICK or TOP SAFETY PICK+ awards for 2025.
This comprehensive approach to occupant protection has positioned Hyundai as a frontrunner in vehicle safety, offering options that excel in protecting drivers and passengers alike.
The SmartSense technology package serves as the foundation for these safety achievements, providing active and passive protection features that work together to prevent accidents and minimize harm if a collision occurs.
Award-Winning Protection
These safety accolades reflect Hyundai's approach to vehicle design—one that prioritizes protecting everyone on board. The brand has successfully anticipated the direction of safety standards and built vehicles that meet and exceed these evolving requirements.
From structural enhancements to advanced driver assistance systems, each element works as part of a larger safety strategy. This holistic approach ensures that Hyundai vehicles offer protection before, during, and after potential impact situations.
Experience the confidence that comes from driving a vehicle designed with your safety as a top priority. Visit Central Nova Hyundai to explore these award-winning models and discover how advanced safety features can enhance your driving experience while protecting what matters most.
