05:54 25-03-2026
Kia K4 sedan and EV9 crossover achieve top safety award for 2026
Kia K4 and EV9 receive IIHS Top Safety Pick+ for 2026, with four models now rated. Includes safety features and updated testing standards.
The Kia K4 sedan and EV9 electric crossover have earned the highest safety rating, the IIHS Top Safety Pick+, for the 2026 model year. With these additions, the total number of Kia models with this award has reached four. The Kia Sorento and Sportage, updated in 2025, previously received the same recognition. All ratings apply to U.S. market versions.
The Kia K4 stands out as one of the most affordable vehicles with this rating, starting at $22,290. Standard equipment includes lane-keeping assist and collision avoidance systems that detect pedestrians, cyclists, and cross-traffic during turns.
The electric EV9 features Highway Driving Assist 2, which maintains distance and keeps the vehicle centered in its lane.
For 2026, the IIHS has tightened its safety requirements. The new criteria now evaluate rear-seat passenger protection in frontal crashes, along with the effectiveness of pedestrian avoidance and high-speed collision prevention systems. This shift means 2026 models undergo more rigorous testing, reflecting both stricter safety standards and advancements in driver-assistance technology.