Safety Champs

Auto Safety Stars

In the latest round of safety accolades from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), Honda and Hyundai have emerged as frontrunners. These automakers snagged a combined 17 awards, a testament to their dedication to safety across a range of vehicles. To be specific, Honda achieved seven Top Safety Pick (TSP) awards, while Hyundai and its luxury arm, Genesis, brought home 10 TSP and Top Safety Pick+ (TSP+) titles.

These prestigious awards span several vehicle categories, including small cars, midsize, large vehicles, and different SUV sizes. Honda and its luxury counterpart Acura, along with Hyundai and Genesis, demonstrated excellence especially in the small and midsize segments, proving their mastery in engineering safety.

IIHS Update

The recent IIHS testing process has undergone some significant changes, making safety awards even more challenging to earn. The Institute has enhanced its moderate overlap front test to now include a second crash dummy representing a child or small adult in the backseat. The focus is on ensuring that backseat passengers are protected just as thoroughly as those riding upfront.

Due to these updated criteria, only 48 vehicles have qualified as TSPs this year, which is noticeably fewer compared to previous years. Out of these 48, only 12 achieved the coveted TSP+ rating. The need to address rear-seat safety came after data showed a concerning trend of high injury risk for backseat seatbelt-wearing adults.

Standout Performers

Taking a closer look at specific models, the Acura Integra and Honda Civic are recognized as Top Safety Picks in the small car category, with the Civic Hatchback securing a TSP+ rating. In the midsize category, the Honda Accord and Hyundai Ioniq 6 proudly hold TSP+ titles, showcasing their robust safety features. Genesis took the spotlight in the luxury sector with the G90 achieving a large luxury car TSP rating.

For those with a penchant for SUVs, look no further than the Genesis GV60, Honda HR-V, Hyundai Ioniq 5, Hyundai Kona, and Hyundai Tucson, as they all claim TSP+ recognition in the small SUV category. The Honda Pilot made its mark in the midsize SUV segment with a TSP, while the Hyundai Santa Fe shines with a TSP+ label. Acura’s MDX and the Genesis GV70 models also earned high ratings in the midsize luxury SUV segment, underscoring the company’s relentless pursuit of safety excellence.

Driving Experience

In terms of driving dynamics, vehicles like the Honda Civic and Hyundai Ioniq 5 are known to offer a smooth and responsive ride, combining safety with a fun and engaging driving experience. The Civic delivers a nimble feel that’s often compared to sportier sedans, while the Ioniq 5 offers an electric spin for those looking to skirt gas stations.

The Honda Accord and Hyundai Santa Fe are renowned for their comfortable ride, providing a balanced blend of power and efficiency that appeals to family-focused drivers. Meanwhile, Genesis vehicles often rival luxury brands with their refined handling and upscale interiors, captivating those who crave a bit of luxury without breaking the bank.

Final Tips

When on the hunt for a new ride, keep an eye out for cars with strong IIHS or NHTSA safety ratings. It’s a good start for assessing a vehicle’s safety record, but don’t forget about reliability. Be sure to check consumer reviews and maintenance projections to ensure that your safety pick complements your lifestyle and budget.