SHERIDAN, WYOMING – April 6, 2025 - Kia leads the pack as both the Telluride and EV9 meet the highest safety standards
Kia America continues to make waves in the automotive world with a pair of standout achievements: the 2025 Kia Telluride and 2025 EV9 have both earned the coveted TOP SAFETY PICK+ (TSP+) awards from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). This recognition not only highlights Kia’s engineering excellence but also assures drivers and families of top-tier protection behind the wheel.
2025 Telluride earns third consecutive TSP+
For the third year in a row, the Kia Telluride has clinched the TSP+ honor, meeting the IIHS’s increasingly rigorous testing requirements. The large SUV stands out in its class for its refined design, advanced safety technologies, and commitment to driver and passenger security.
“IIHS Top Safety Pick and Top Safety Pick+ awards reinforce our dedication to building vehicles that not only perform but also provide peace of mind,” said Steven Center, COO & EVP, Kia America. “As the IIHS’s safety expectations continue to rise, we remain committed to meeting these standards.”
The Telluride’s continued success reflects Kia’s dedication to evolving with safety innovations and maintaining excellence across multiple model years. It delivers premium comfort and innovative driver assistance systems, setting a high bar for midsize SUVs.
2025 EV9 earns upgraded safety rating
Kia’s all-electric flagship SUV, the EV9, has also reached a major milestone, achieving the TSP+ designation with an upgraded rating from the previous year. The EV9 appeals to eco-conscious consumers seeking a bold design, spacious interior, and cutting-edge performance—all while prioritizing safety at every turn.
Ideal for families looking to transition to electric vehicles without sacrificing space or safety, the EV9 offers fast-charging capabilities and a host of upscale features, all supported by rigorous safety testing and real-world readiness.
Stricter IIHS testing standards for 2025
The IIHS made notable changes to its award criteria for 2025, focusing more closely on back seat safety. The updated moderate overlap front crash test now includes a second dummy placed behind the driver, enhancing assessment of rear passenger protection.
In 2024, a TSP+ designation could be achieved with an acceptable or good rating in this new test. But starting this year, the original test has been completely phased out. Now, vehicles must earn a good rating in the updated moderate overlap test to qualify for TSP+, and at least acceptable for the basic TSP designation.
Vehicles must also demonstrate strong performance in small overlap front and updated side crash tests, as well as front pedestrian crash prevention evaluations in both day and night conditions. Additionally, all trims must feature headlights that score acceptable or better.
Kia’s legacy of safety and sustainability
Headquartered in Irvine, California, Kia America continues to be recognized for its focus on vehicle quality, safety, and sustainability. In 2024, the company was named one of TIME World’s Most Sustainable Companies, a testament to its ongoing environmental and social commitment.
With nearly 800 U.S. dealerships and a growing lineup of gasoline, hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and all-electric vehicles—including models proudly assembled in the United States—Kia is setting the standard for what today’s consumer expects from a modern automaker.
Experience Kia’s award-winning innovation
From forward-thinking design to uncompromising safety, the 2025 Kia Telluride and EV9 are proof that modern drivers no longer have to choose between performance, style, and peace of mind.
Explore the latest Kia lineup today and experience the award-winning safety for yourself. Visit your local Kia dealer or go to kia.com for more information.