MODEL
Hyundai Kona EV Safety
NHTSA safety across every Hyundai Kona EV model year we cover.
Across the 1 model year of the Hyundai Kona EV we cover (2021 to 2021), no year has an NHTSA crash-test score on record. No recalls are on record across those years.
The 2021 Hyundai Kona Electric is a subcompact electric SUV aimed at urban commuters and eco-conscious buyers who want an affordable, practical entry into battery-powered driving. Built on the same platform as the gas-powered Kona, it competes in the growing small electric crossover segment and appeals to buyers prioritizing low running costs and a compact footprint without sacrificing everyday usability.
For the 2021 Hyundai Kona Electric, NHTSA did not conduct crash testing, leaving a critical gap in its federal safety ratings. This absence means no star ratings or Safety Index score can be reported, preventing direct comparison with other vehicles based on government crash data. The vehicle's recall record stands out positively: zero NHTSA recalls have been issued for the 2021 model year. This indicates a robust performance in preventing broad safety defects requiring manufacturer intervention. However, the owner complaint data presents a different picture. NHTSA recorded 136 owner complaints for the 2021 Kona Electric. Among these unverified reports, four describe fire incidents, three involve crashes, and three note injuries. The fire complaints, particularly relevant for a battery-electric vehicle, highlight potential concerns with the high-voltage battery system. While these are unverified allegations and not confirmed defects, the volume and nature of these complaints warrant scrutiny from prospective buyers. The zero-recall record is a strong point, but the lack of crash-test data combined with a significant number of owner complaints, including allegations of fire, suggests the need for informed caution.
WHAT REVIEWERS SAYReviewers generally regard the Kona Electric as a well-rounded small electric crossover that delivers a composed, responsive driving experience and a reasonably refined cabin for its class. Most praise its competitive driving range and user-friendly technology layout, while noting that interior materials and overall refinement are adequate rather than premium. Value for the segment is frequently highlighted as a strength.
- NHTSA did not crash-test the 2021 Kona Electric, so there are no federal star ratings available. Shoppers cannot compare its structural performance to rivals using government data for this model year.
- Four of the 136 owner complaints filed with NHTSA involve fire, a category that warrants close attention for any battery-electric vehicle. These are unverified allegations, but buyers should actively monitor NHTSA's database for any emerging recall activity related to the battery system.
- The 2021 Kona Electric carries zero NHTSA recalls across our covered year, which is a positive safety signal and suggests no confirmed defect campaigns have been issued against this model.
- With 136 total complaints including three reported crashes and three reported injuries, the complaint volume is notable for a low-volume model. Buyers should review the specific complaint categories on NHTSA's website to understand where owners have reported concerns before purchasing.