The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) issues its top safety picks every year. Six Kia models across different categories are IIHS Top Safety Picks, and three models earned the Top Safety Pick+. This requires that the following criteria be met: a rating of “Good” for five crashworthiness tests, ratings of “Advanced” or “Superior” in front crash prevention, and headlights rated as “Acceptable” or “Good.” Read on to see which Kia models made the cut.
Kia Forte
Kia’s Forte tested in the small-car division. The Forte received a rating of “superior” for its front crash prevention. In front crash testing, the vehicle provided good space. Air bags deployed around the driver and prevented injuries to the legs and feet, which translated to a low risk of significant crash injury. In the five crashworthiness tests, Forte scored a rating of “good.”
Kia Optima
The Kia Optima scored recognition in the midsize group as a top safety pick. Its optional automatic collision system, available as a package for the SX version, received a superior grading. The car passed low break tests at 12 mph and high break tests at 25 mph. Overall, the Optima received a positive report, with the IIHS rating the vehicle as “Good” for roof strength, front impact collision, and side impact collision among others.
Kia Cadenza
Kia also received “Good” ratings in the large car class with the five-seater Cadenza over the five crash safety tests. Like the Optima, the automatic collision feature available as an option received a “Superior” rating with the 12- and 25-mile test. The Cadenza excelled in the overall build of the vehicle and placement of the air bags. Its roof strength and safety cage are solid and helped make sure of low risk of injury in all areas of the car.
Kia Sportage
Kia Sportage is a safe family SUV choice. Its backup camera is one of the first lines of defense for safety in the small SUV category. The camera, along with multiple air bags and stability control, are standard features for the vehicle. It received a higher roof strength test rating than the Cadenza and passed all safety tests with a “Good” rating.
Kia Sorento
The larger Kia Sorrento made the IIHS list in the midsize category. It received “Good” ratings in all testing areas. It is a solid choice for those in the market for a larger SUV. For the 2017 model year, Kia also added the automatic crash prevention system to its list of packages for customers to choose from.
Kia Sedona
In the Minivan group, Kia Sedona is just one of two vehicles to receive the IIHS top safety pick. The spacious van passed the required safety tests and features three child seat latches to hold young children safely while offering a smooth ride.
Kia’s six IIHS safety picks bring safety to the forefront of a car search. Each car provides a different car style and seating capacity to meet any customer’s needs. IIHS recognition proves that Kia is a top car-safety brand with style to spare.