Exceptional Safety Performance in IIHS Testing
The 2018 Kia Soul compact crossover and 2018 Sportage SUV achieved the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's (IIHS) highest honor - the Top Safety Pick+ award. This recognition places both vehicles among the safest in their respective classes, though potential buyers should note that the top scores require specific trim levels and optional equipment packages.
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Key Safety Achievements:
- Perfect "Good" ratings across all five IIHS crashworthiness tests
- "Superior" front collision prevention ratings (exceeding requirements)
- Significant improvements over previous model years
- Available advanced headlight systems with Good/Acceptable ratings
Detailed Crash Test Performance
Both Kia models demonstrated outstanding protection in the IIHS's rigorous evaluation protocol:
| Test Category |
2018 Kia Soul |
2018 Kia Sportage |
| Moderate Overlap Front |
Good |
Good |
| Small Overlap Front |
Good |
Good |
| Side Impact |
Good |
Good |
| Roof Strength |
Good |
Good |
| Head Restraints & Seats |
Good |
Good |
Advanced Collision Avoidance Technology
The 2018 models marked significant safety advancements over their predecessors, particularly in active safety systems:
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Front Crash Prevention Systems
Both vehicles earned the "Superior" rating for their available front collision systems with automatic emergency braking, surpassing the "Advanced" rating required for Top Safety Pick+ consideration.
- 12 mph test: Both vehicles completely avoided collisions
- 25 mph test: Sportage avoided impact while Soul reduced speed by 24 mph
Headlight Improvements
The 2018 Soul's available headlight system earned a "Good" rating, while the Sportage's best system received an "Acceptable" rating - both qualifying for Plus status.
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Model-Specific Safety Considerations
2018 Kia Soul
The Soul's safety improvements over the 2017 model were substantial:
- Added automatic emergency braking (previously only had warning system)
- Upgraded headlight performance
- Available on mid-level Soul Plus trim via option package
- Not available on top-tier Exclaim trim with turbo engine
2018 Kia Sportage
The Sportage showed marked improvements from its 2017 version:
- Collision system available on all but base trim
- Standard on SX, optional on EX trims
- Best headlights only on vehicles built after June 2017
Competitive Landscape
When compared to segment rivals, the 2018 Kia models hold their own against established safety leaders:
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Kia Soul Competitors
- Subaru Crosstrek: Also Top Safety Pick+
- Toyota C-HR: Not yet rated at time of evaluation
Kia Sportage Rivals
- Toyota RAV4: Top Safety Pick+
- Subaru Forester: Top Safety Pick+
- Honda CR-V: Top Safety Pick+
- Hyundai Tucson: Top Safety Pick+
Purchasing Considerations
To get the safest versions of these Kia models, buyers should pay careful attention to:
- Trim levels: Safety features vary significantly by trim
- Option packages: Some require substantial additional investment
- Production date: Sportage headlight improvements only on later builds
- Cost-benefit analysis: Weigh safety upgrades against price increases
