The 2015 Kia Soul hatchback has rejoined the ranks of vehicles deemed worthy of the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety’s Top Safety Pick. Meanwhile, the 2015 Forte fell short again after losing its status the previous model year, despite improvements.
Related: Not All Small Cars Shine in Latest IIHS Crash Tests
The Soul redeemed itself this time around by earning a good rating in the IIHS’ stringent small overlap front crash test, which simulates what happens when a car strikes an object such as a tree or utility pole. IIHS rates cars on a scale of poor, marginal, acceptable and good. The Soul scored poorly on the small overlap test for the 2013 model year, and wasn’t even tested for 2014 because Kia said things had not improved. The hatchback came back strong for 2015, however, raising its rating on the test from poor to good (acceptable would have earned it Top Safety Pick status). As is necessary for the safety designation, the Soul also earned good scores in the institute’s other four crashworthiness evaluations: moderate overlap front, side, roof strength, and head restraints and seats.
IIHS said the Soul improved by strengthening the front end and occupant compartment for 2015. “The driver space was maintained reasonably well with a small amount of intrusion,” IIHS said in a statement. “The dummy’s movement was well controlled, and its head hit the frontal airbag, which stayed in position during the crash.”
