Hyundai Motor Group has once again demonstrated its strength in vehicle safety, topping the 2025 Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) crash test rankings. Across its Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis brands, the Group secured a total of 15 TOP SAFETY PICK (TSP) or TOP SAFETY PICK+ (TSP+) awards – the highest number for any automotive group for the second year running.
Recognition Under Tougher Standards
The 2025 IIHS testing cycle introduced tougher requirements, with a stronger emphasis on rear occupant protection. Vehicles are now assessed using dummies representing 12-year-old children or small female passengers seated in the second row, reflecting real-world risks more accurately.
To earn a TSP+ rating, vehicles must achieve a “good” score in this updated moderate overlap front test. For a TSP, an “acceptable” rating is sufficient. In addition, vehicles must:
- Score “good” in both small overlap front and updated side impact crash tests
- Receive at least “acceptable” in daytime and nighttime pedestrian front crash prevention
- Offer “acceptable” or better headlights across all trim levels
Hyundai Motor Group’s Winning Line-up
Seven Hyundai models, five Genesis models, and three Kia models were recognised in the 2025 awards.
Hyundai (7 TSP+ models):
- Elantra (i30 Sedan in Australia, built after Oct 2024)
- Sonata (built after Nov 2024)
- IONIQ 5
- IONIQ 6
- Kona
- Tucson
- Santa Fe (built after Nov 2024)
Genesis (4 TSP+ and 1 TSP):
- GV60 (TSP+)
- Electrified GV70 (TSP+)
- GV70 (built after Apr 2024, TSP+)
- GV80 (TSP+)
- G90 (TSP)
Kia (3 TSP+ models):
- K4 (built after Jan 2025)
- EV9
- Telluride
Implications for Australian Buyers and Fleets
While the IIHS is a US-based body, its safety ratings are highly regarded worldwide. For Australian buyers, particularly fleet managers who prioritise occupant protection and vehicle reliability, these results provide additional confidence in the Hyundai, Kia and Genesis ranges.
The inclusion of the Hyundai i30 Sedan (Elantra) is particularly noteworthy, as it has often been overlooked in Australian fleets compared with the i30 hatch. Its TSP+ rating under stricter 2025 requirements highlights the advances Hyundai has made in occupant safety across its passenger vehicle line-up.
