Hyundai Aces Safety with Nine IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK Awards for 2024

When it comes to vehicle safety, Hyundai is in a league of its own. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has recognized the automaker's unwavering commitment to protecting drivers and passengers, awarding an impressive nine models with TOP SAFETY PICK ratings for 2024.

Leading the pack is the IONIQ 5, which secured the highest IIHS accolade – the TOP SAFETY PICK+ – thanks to its groundbreaking advancements in rear occupant safety and crashworthiness. The Santa Fe and Sonata, two of Hyundai's flagship models, have also earned the esteemed TOP SAFETY PICK designation, solidifying the brand's position as an industry frontrunner in automotive safety.

But what exactly do these IIHS awards signify, and why are they so coveted? The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety is an independent, non-profit organization dedicated to reducing the number of motor vehicle crashes, injuries, and deaths on America's roads. Their TOP SAFETY PICK and TOP SAFETY PICK+ ratings are among the most rigorous and prestigious safety recognitions in the automotive industry, requiring vehicles to undergo a series of stringent crash tests and evaluations.

To qualify, vehicles must excel in several areas, including small and moderate overlap front crashes, side impacts, roof strength, head restraint performance, and the availability of advanced safety features. The TOP SAFETY PICK+ designation takes things a step further, mandating good ratings in the updated side impact test, as well as acceptable or good pedestrian crash prevention capabilities.

Hyundai's impressive roster of award-winning models showcases the brand's relentless pursuit of safety innovation. In addition to the IONIQ 5, Santa Fe, and Sonata, the IONIQ 6, Kona, Elantra, Tucson, Palisade, and Santa Cruz have all been recognized with TOP SAFETY PICK or TOP SAFETY PICK+ ratings for 2024.

"At Hyundai, we are committed to providing safe vehicles to protect customers and other vulnerable road users," says Cole Stutz, chief safety officer at Hyundai Motor North America. This commitment is evident in the automaker's focus on enhancing side structure, implementing advanced seat belts for rear passengers, and equipping its vehicles with cutting-edge SmartSense safety features, such as Forward Collision Avoidance Assist, Lane Departure Warning, and Driver Assist Warnings.

As the IIHS continues to raise the bar with more stringent testing criteria, Hyundai remains steadfast in its pursuit of safety excellence. The nine TOP SAFETY PICK awards for 2024 are a testament to the brand's dedication to prioritizing the well-being of drivers, passengers, and pedestrians alike.

If safety is at the top of your checklist for your next vehicle purchase, look no further than Hyundai's award-winning lineup. With their relentless commitment to innovation and their proven track record of meeting the industry's toughest safety standards, you can rest assured that you and your loved ones are in good hands.