Kia EV9, Telluride,
and K4 Earn 2025 IIHS
TOP SAFETY PICK+ Ratings
The 2025 Kia EV9, Telluride, and K4 (built after January 2025) have each received the highest safety honor — TOP SAFETY PICK+ (TSP+) — from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), reaffirming Kia’s customer-first philosophy and ongoing commitment to occupant protection. The TSP+ award applies to US models only.
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) is an independent, nonprofit scientific and educational organization dedicated to reducing deaths, injuries, and property damage from motor vehicle crashes through research, evaluation and through education of consumers, policymakers and safety professionals.
To qualify for TOP SAFETY PICK+, vehicles must earn “Good” ratings in Crashworthiness evaluations, and at least “Acceptable” ratings in Crash Avoidance & Mitigation and Seat Belts & Child Restraints.
In 2025, the IIHS introduced more rigorous testing protocols with a particular focus on rear-seat occupant protection.
Next-Level Safety in
a New Era of Testing
Under these updated protocols, evaluations have become more stringent. The revised moderate overlap front crash test now includes a dummy representing a small woman or 12-year-old child in the rear seat to simulate the effects of a crash on younger or smaller passengers.
In addition, vehicles must demonstrate daytime and nighttime pedestrian crash prevention, and all trims must be equipped with headlights rated "Acceptable" or better.
Kia's recognition across multiple models despite these higher standards is a testament to its advanced safety technologies and forward-thinking engineering.
*Photo by IIHS: https://mediaroom.iihs.orgEV9: A New Benchmark for
Electric SUV Safety
2024 Kia EV9 Driver-Side Small Overlap Front Crash Test
The 2025 Kia EV9 is raising the bar for safety in the electric SUV segment. Underpinned by a rigid body structure and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), the EV9 excelled in IIHS testing — including the critical rear-occupant protection requirements.
This recognition underscores the EV9’s position as a leader in electric mobility, offering cutting-edge safety without compromise.
Telluride: Three Years of
Consistent Excellence
2023 Kia Telluride Moderate Overlap Front Crash Test
The Telluride has maintained its reputation as one of the most trusted midsize SUVs, earning TSP+ for the third consecutive year.
A consistent performer across all IIHS crash evaluations, the 2025 Telluride proves its ability to provide collision protection while offering premium comfort, solidifying its reputation as one of the safest and most dependable midsize SUVs for families.
K4: Safety Evolved for
a New Standard
2025 Kia K4 Moderate Overlap Front Crash Test
The all-new 2025 Kia K4 earned TSP+ by achieving “Good” ratings in Crashworthiness — including the updated moderate overlap front test — and “Acceptable” ratings in other categories. This award applies only to vehicles built after January 2025.
Showcasing comprehensive safety across the board, the K4 was particularly recognized for its attention to rear-seat safety performance, while also delivering strong ratings in pedestrian crash avoidance and headlight performance.
The recognition of the EV9, Telluride, and K4 with IIHS’s highest rating highlights Kia’s philosophy of prioritizing customer-centric safety and its commitment to continuous innovation. Kia will remain focused on building vehicles that provide peace of mind for every passenger on every journey.
