An automotive safety tester said it’s raising the threshold that automakers must achieve to win its top safety vehicle award.

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety said it’s challenging brands to increase back-seat safety and improve pedestrian crash-avoidance technology in order to qualify for its Top Safety Pick awards.

Even with the increased standards, it said 22 models qualify for the top awards this year.

The nonprofit organization added a criteria this year after already toughening awards requirements last year.

“This year’s winners are true standouts, offering the highest level of protection for both vehicle occupants and other vulnerable road users,” said President David Harkey in a press release.

With the new requirement part of the consideration, Hyundai took the most 2024 safety awards, winning 16 Top Safety Pick and Top Safety Pick+ nods, followed by Toyota 13, and Mazda with six.

IIHS said small and midsize sports-utility vehicles tied for the most top awards.

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