Source: Consumer Reports

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has introduced more rigorous safety standards for the 2024 Top Safety Pick and Top Safety Pick+ designations, raising the bar for automakers. This year, the IIHS has updated its criteria to emphasize not only front-seat crash protection but also rear-seat passenger safety and pedestrian protection.

Stricter Testing Criteria
In 2024, cars vying for Top Safety Pick+ must excel in an updated moderate front overlap crash test, which now includes a rear-seat crash-test dummy to evaluate passenger safety in the back seat. In addition, vehicles must score high in both daytime and nighttime pedestrian detection through automatic emergency braking (AEB). The new requirements reflect a growing concern for the safety of all road users, not just drivers and passengers.

Top Safety Pick+ Winners: The Standouts
With the updated criteria, the number of cars earning the Top Safety Pick+ designation has dropped, but those that did make the cut are among the safest vehicles available. Small and midsize SUVs dominated the list, with Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis making a strong showing. Honda, Toyota, and Subaru also produced several winning models. Some of the most notable winners in the small and midsize SUV categories include the Honda HR-V, Mazda CX-50, and Subaru Solterra.

Rear-Seat Safety Improvements
Historically, advancements in vehicle safety have focused on the front seat, but recent IIHS changes and Consumer Reports’ ongoing advocacy are pushing manufacturers to prioritize rear-seat passenger safety as well. Emily A. Thomas, PhD, an auto safety expert at Consumer Reports, points out that these updates will improve safety for everyone in the car, especially in rear-seat situations where safety measures have lagged.

Looking Ahead
IIHS president David Harkey expects more vehicles to be added to the award list as automakers work to improve their models' safety performance. This shift reflects the ever-evolving nature of vehicle safety standards, with a strong emphasis on protecting all occupants and pedestrians alike.

2024 Top Safety Pick+ Winners (Highlights)
- Small Cars: Acura Integra, Mazda 3, Toyota Prius
- Midsize Cars: Honda Accord, Hyundai Ioniq 6
- Small SUVs: Genesis GV60, Mazda CX-50
- Luxury SUVs: BMW X3, Tesla Model Y, Volvo XC90

These vehicles have met stringent safety tests, offering consumers reliable choices when safety is a top priority.