MODEL
Hyundai Kona
NHTSA safety across every Hyundai Kona model year we cover.
Across the 8 model years of the Hyundai Kona we cover (2019 to 2026), the strongest crash-test showing is the 2022 at 94 on the NHTSA Safety Index, and the lowest is the 2026 at 80. 10 recalls have been issued across those years.
The Hyundai Kona is a subcompact crossover SUV that has carved out a loyal following among urban commuters and small-family buyers who want an affordable, maneuverable package without sacrificing modern features. Spanning model years 2019 through 2025, the Kona competes in one of the most crowded segments in the American market, and its safety record is a meaningful part of its pitch to value-conscious shoppers.
At MotorCaliber, we rate the Hyundai Kona's safety picture as genuinely competitive for its class, though not without real concerns that shoppers should weigh carefully. The headline number is a 94 out of 100 NHTSA Safety Index in its best year, 2022, placing it in the Exceptional band. Crash-test geometry backs that up: the Kona has earned 5 out of 5 stars in both frontal and side crash evaluations in its strongest model year, with rollover protection landing at a solid 4 out of 5, which is typical for a tall, narrow subcompact crossover body style. Those are reassuring numbers for a vehicle this size. The recall picture, however, deserves serious attention. Across the 2019 to 2025 coverage window, the Kona has accumulated 8 recalls. Most critically, at least one of those campaigns rose to the level of a park-outside or do-not-drive directive, the most serious category NHTSA issues. That is a flag no buyer should ignore. Owner complaints total 667, with 35 alleged crash involvements, 9 fire-related reports, 32 injury claims, and 1 reported death. These are unverified allegations, not confirmed findings, but the fire-related complaint volume in particular warrants scrutiny. Verify your specific VIN is clear of open recalls before purchase. The Kona earns its strong crash scores, but the recall and complaint history keeps it from a clean bill of safety health.
WHAT REVIEWERS SAYReviewers generally regard the Hyundai Kona as a well-rounded subcompact SUV that punches above its price point in terms of standard features and driving refinement. Most praise its composed handling for the segment and practical packaging, though reviewers have noted that the Kona's safety recall history is a factor worth monitoring, particularly for earlier model years in this generation.
- The 2022 Kona achieved a 94 out of 100 NHTSA Safety Index, rated Exceptional, with 5-star frontal and side crash scores. This is among the better results in the subcompact crossover segment and a strong argument for prioritizing newer model years.
- At least one recall across the 2019 to 2025 model years was serious enough to carry a park-outside or do-not-drive designation. Always run your VIN through the NHTSA recall database before buying or driving any used Kona to confirm all campaigns have been remedied.
- Owner complaints across covered model years include 9 fire-related allegations and 35 crash involvement reports. These are unverified, but the fire complaint volume is elevated and aligns with why certain Kona recalls drew heightened NHTSA scrutiny. Ask a dealer for full recall service history on any pre-owned unit.
- The Kona's 4 out of 5 rollover star rating is consistent with its subcompact crossover proportions. Buyers who prioritize rollover resistance may want to compare this result directly against class rivals before making a final decision.
Most-recalled year on record: 2024 Hyundai Kona with 3 recalls.