Four 2026 Honda Models Earn Top Safety Ratings from IIHS
When it comes to choosing your next vehicle, safety isn’t just a feature—it’s a priority. That’s why it’s big news that four 2026 Honda models have earned top safety honors from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
Let’s break down what this means—and why it matters if you’re shopping for your next car.
2026 Honda IIHS Award Winners
Honda continues to raise the bar with multiple models earning prestigious safety ratings:
- 2026 Honda HR-V — TOP SAFETY PICK+ (TSP+)
- 2026 Honda Passport — TOP SAFETY PICK+ (TSP+)
- 2026 Honda Civic Hatchback — TOP SAFETY PICK (TSP)
- 2026 Honda Accord — TOP SAFETY PICK (TSP)
The TOP SAFETY PICK+ designation is the highest award given by IIHS, meaning the HR-V and Passport stand at the very top of their class when it comes to protecting drivers, passengers, and even pedestrians.
What Goes Into These Ratings?
IIHS doesn’t hand out these awards lightly. Vehicles are put through a series of rigorous tests, including:
- Small overlap front crash test
- Updated moderate overlap front crash test
- Enhanced side crash test (now with 82% more crash energy than previous versions)
- Pedestrian front crash prevention
- Vehicle-to-vehicle crash prevention systems
- Headlight performance
All four Honda models earned the top “GOOD” rating in key crashworthiness tests—an impressive achievement across the board.
Honda’s “Safety for Everyone” Approach
Honda’s commitment to safety isn’t new—it’s part of their DNA. Their “Safety for Everyone” philosophy focuses on protecting not just drivers and passengers, but everyone on the road.
Even more impressive? Some of Honda’s most affordable models, like the Civic and HR-V, are among those receiving top safety ratings—proving you don’t need to spend a fortune to drive a safe vehicle.
Standard Honda Sensing® Technology
Every new Honda comes equipped with Honda Sensing®, a suite of advanced safety and driver-assist features, including:
- Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS™) with Pedestrian Detection
- Forward Collision Warning
- Road Departure Mitigation (RDM)
- Lane Departure Warning (LDW)
- Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS)
- Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
Honda has installed this technology in over 10 million vehicles in the U.S. since its introduction—helping drivers stay safer every day.
Built for Protection: ACE™ Body Structure
In addition to smart technology, Honda vehicles are engineered with safety at their core. The Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure is designed to:
- Better absorb and distribute crash energy
- Improve protection in frontal collisions
- Enhance compatibility with other vehicles on the road
Combined with advanced airbag systems and seatbelt technologies, it creates a strong foundation for occupant protection.
5-Star Safety Ratings from NHTSA
Beyond IIHS recognition, Honda continues to perform at the highest level in government testing as well. Every fully evaluated Honda model in the 2024–2025 NHTSA NCAP testing earned a 5-Star Overall Vehicle Score—the highest rating available.
Why This Matters for You
If you’re considering a new vehicle, these awards make one thing clear:
Honda continues to deliver top-tier safety across multiple models—without sacrificing value.
Whether you’re looking for a compact SUV like the HR-V, a rugged Passport, or a reliable sedan like the Accord or Civic, you can feel confident knowing you’re choosing a vehicle built with safety in mind.
Final Thoughts
Safety isn’t just about passing tests—it’s about real-world protection for you and your family. With multiple 2026 models earning top IIHS honors, Honda proves once again why it remains a trusted name in automotive safety.
Want to experience these award-winning models for yourself? Stop by and see the latest Honda lineup in person at Martin Honda 298 E Cleveland Ave, Newark, DE. —we’re here to help you find the perfect fit.