The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has named the Kia Optima a leader in safety. The IIHS designated the 2017 KIA Optima as a Top Safety Pick Plus (TSP+).
The TSP+ is the highest designation possible, and one that is highly sought after by automakers. There are a few requirements, however, for the KIA to be considered TSP+. The vehicle must be built after March 2017, and equipped with front crash prevention and LED headlights with High Beam Assist.
The optima was able to attain the TSP+ after its performance in testing. The optima received top scores in all five crashworthiness tests. The Optima also possess Automatic Emergency Breaking and passed new headlight standards. Both of these aspects contributed to the Optima being designated as TSP+.
Testing
- In order for the optima to be proclaimed TSP+, it had to rate “good” in five crashworthiness tests; small overlap front, moderate overlap front, side impact, roof strength and head restraints.
- The optima also needed to rate “advanced” or “superior” in front crash prevention to reach the IIHS’s top designation.
- Finally, the Optima’s headlights had to rate “adequate” or “good” in the IIHS testing.
The IIHS is very rigorous in its testing standards. This is in order to assure that when a vehicle is given the TSP+ title, it lives up to the standards set upon it.
In addition to the successful completion of the IIHS tests, the Optima also possesses many other features that make it attractive to a consumer. The driver assist features add to the overall safety of the vehicle with numerous warning systems, including Front Collision Warning System, Lane Departure Warning System, and Autonomous Emergency Braking.
The Optima remains a very safe vehicle, as certified with the IIHS designation. Coupled with additional safety features and a strong reputation, make the Optima deserving of the TSP+ designation.
