MODEL
Hyundai Kona Electric Safety
NHTSA safety across every Hyundai Kona Electric model year we cover.
Across the 6 model years of the Hyundai Kona Electric we cover (2019 to 2025), the strongest crash-test showing is the 2023 at 88 on the NHTSA Safety Index. 8 recalls have been issued across those years.
The Hyundai Kona Electric is a subcompact electric SUV that has carved out a practical niche for urban commuters and eco-minded families since its 2019 debut. Positioned as an affordable, right-sized EV alternative to larger crossovers, it competes in a crowded but fast-growing segment. Its safety record, however, deserves a careful look before any shopper signs on the dotted line.
The 2023 Hyundai Kona Electric, despite strong crash test performance, presents a complex safety profile that demands careful consideration. The model earns our Safety Index score of 88 out of 100, placing it in the Strong band, yet its recall history raises significant concerns. Crash-test results from NHTSA show a 5-out-of-5-star rating for side-impact protection, a notable achievement for a subcompact. The frontal crash rating is 4 out of 5 stars. No rollover rating is available across any covered model year, representing an informational gap for consumers. The most notable safety aspect of the 2023 Kona Electric is its recall record. Across model years 2019 to 2025, the vehicle has been subject to 6 recalls. Four of these carry "park-outside" or "do not drive" advisories, the most severe language NHTSA employs. For an electric vehicle, such advisories typically indicate fire or serious battery safety risks, distinguishing these from less urgent recall types. Owner complaints further underscore these concerns. Among the 273 complaints on file, there are 12 alleged crashes, 4 alleged fires, 13 reported injuries, and 1 reported death. While these are unverified allegations, the number of alleged fires aligns with the severity indicated by the "park-outside" recall campaigns. The 2023 Kona Electric demonstrates structural integrity in impact scenarios, but its recall record necessitates thorough verification of all recall remedies before vehicle delivery.
WHAT REVIEWERS SAYReviewers generally praise the Kona Electric for its composed ride, user-friendly technology, and practical packaging for city driving. Most consider it a competitive and likable entry in the subcompact EV segment. However, reviewers have consistently noted that prospective buyers should pay close attention to the model's recall history, particularly concerns tied to the battery system.
- Four of the six recalls across 2019 to 2025 carry park-outside or do-not-drive severity language, which typically signals a serious fire or battery risk. Confirm all open recalls are resolved before purchase using the NHTSA VIN lookup tool.
- The 2023 model year represents the safety high-water mark in our data, scoring 88 out of 100 on the NHTSA Safety Index and landing in the Strong band. If you are shopping used, prioritizing 2023 or newer is a meaningful safety consideration.
- Side-impact crash protection is a genuine strength, earning a 5 out of 5 in the best-tested year. Frontal protection at 4 out of 5 is respectable but not class-leading, so it should not be taken for granted.
- Owner complaints include 4 alleged fire incidents across the covered model years. While these are unverified allegations, combined with the battery-related recall campaigns, they reinforce why verifying recall completion and monitoring for any new NHTSA safety bulletins is especially important for this model.
Most-recalled year on record: 2020 Hyundai Kona Electric with 3 recalls.