2026 Kia Sportage Named ‘2025 TOP SAFETY PICK+’ in 2025 IIHS Crash Test Ratings

Kia Corporation today announced that the 2026 Sportage SUV has been awarded the 2025 TOP SAFETY PICK+ (TSP+) rating in the latest crash test evaluations conducted by the U.S. Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), the organization’s highest level of safety recognition. The designation applies to 2026 Kia Sportage models built after May 2025.

Sportage earned the elite TSP+ rating by receiving the highest possible “Good” rating across all major assessment categories, including the small overlap front, updated moderate overlap front and updated side tests. It also met the requirements for “Acceptable” or “Good” rating performance in pedestrian front crash prevention and comes with standard headlights rated “Acceptable” or “Good” across all trim levels.

The TSP+ designation is granted exclusively to vehicles that meet the industry’s most stringent safety criteria. IIHS has introduced tougher evaluation standards for this year, including enhanced assessments for rear occupant protection, further underscoring the significance of this achievement.

Kia’s continued investment in advanced collision avoidance technologies, high-rigidity body structures, and optimized safety design has further reinforced the Sportage’s strong safety credentials.

IIHS Sets a New Benchmark with Stricter Safety Standards for 2025 Evaluations

In addition to the 2025 TSP+ rating bestowed upon the 2026 Kia Sportage by the IIHS, the organization also awards a TSP rating. To qualify for 2025 Top Safety Pick (TSP), a vehicle must receive “Good” ratings in the small overlap front and updated side tests and at least an “Acceptable” rating in the updated moderate overlap front test. It must also earn an “Acceptable” or “Good” rating for pedestrian front crash prevention and come with standard headlights rated “Acceptable” or “Good”.

The 2026 Kia Sportage achieved a maximum “Good” rating in all three categories, with the award applying to models built after May 2025.