The 2024 Kia Sportage stands out in the compact SUV market not just for its style and performance, but notably for its commitment to safety. This commitment is exemplified by its recent recognition as an Insurance Institute of Highway Safety (IIHS) 2023 Top Safety Pick+ (TSP+), reflecting the Sportage's adherence to the highest standards of safety.
Elevated Safety Standards and Recognition
The Sportage's ascent to the TSP+ rating is a significant achievement. Previously a TOP SAFETY PICK in 2022 with specific headlights, the 2024 model's upgrade follows the IIHS’ tightened criteria for its 2023 awards. These more stringent requirements include enhanced side crash protection, pedestrian crash prevention systems, and headlight ratings. The 2024 Sportage excelled under these new standards, earning a "good" rating in all four crashworthiness evaluations. A significant factor in achieving the high-tier award is the standard LED projection headlamps introduced in the 2024 model year, which received an "acceptable" rating. Furthermore, the Sportage's standard and optional front crash prevention systems earned "superior" ratings in daytime and "advanced" ratings in nighttime vehicle-to-pedestrian evaluations.
Advanced Safety Features for Comprehensive Protection
The 2024 Kia Sportage is equipped with a suite of advanced safety features designed to protect passengers and pedestrians alike:
- Blind View Monitor (BVM): This available feature monitors traffic approaching from behind. When signaling a lane change, a live image of the intended lane is displayed in the instrument cluster, enhancing safety during maneuvers.
- Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist: This available system detects traffic approaching from the sides at the rear when reversing. It alerts the driver with audio and visual warnings and can apply brakes if necessary to prevent potential collisions.
- Reverse Parking Collision-Avoidance Assist: Functioning like extra eyes at the back of your head, this available assist feature helps prevent collisions with pedestrians or objects behind the vehicle when reversing at low speeds.
- Surround View Monitor: Standard on the Sportage X-Line Limited, this system employs a four-camera array to provide a 3D, 360° bird’s-eye view of the area around the vehicle, significantly enhancing parking and safety.
Commitment to Safety and Innovation
Kia's focus on safety in the Sportage is part of a broader commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction. "Kia’s longest-running nameplate continues to improve and deliver for today’s savvy and adventurous compact SUV buyers,” says Steven Center, COO and EVP, Kia America. The inclusion of a nighttime vehicle-to-pedestrian front crash prevention test in the TSP+ criteria, and the Sportage's performance in these tests, underscores Kia's dedication to safety at all times of day.
In summary, the 2024 Kia Sportage not only meets the evolving standards of vehicle safety but sets new benchmarks in the compact SUV segment. Its IIHS Top Safety Pick+ rating, coupled with an array of advanced safety features, ensures that drivers and passengers enjoy peace of mind, making it a top choice for those prioritizing safety in their vehicle selection.