NHTSA // CRASH-TESTED
2020 Hyundai Kona Safety Ratings
The 2020 Hyundai Kona scores 88 out of 100 on the NHTSA Safety Index (Strong), with a 5-star overall NHTSA crash rating, 2 recalls, and 151 owner complaints on file.
Updated Oct 1, 2026 from NHTSA data · Reviewed by Ivanna Verstliar
The 2020 Hyundai Kona's Safety Index of 88/100 places it firmly in the "Strong" safety band, a performance underpinned by its crash-avoidance technology. Its safety profile is moderated by two recall campaigns and a modest defect record based on owner complaints.
The 2020 Hyundai Kona received a 5-star overall crash-test rating and a NHTSA Safety Index of 88 out of 100 based on NHTSA data.
MotorCaliber Safety Desk // NHTSA data, verified Oct 1, 2026
Among the 107 SUVs from 2020 that NHTSA has crash-tested, the 2020 Hyundai Kona ranks 28 for overall NHTSA Safety Index.
- new and teen drivers who want standard crash-avoidance tech
- urban drivers exposed to side-impact risk
| NHTSA Safety Index | 88 / 100 (Strong) |
|---|---|
| Overall crash rating | 5 of 5 stars |
| Frontal / Side / Rollover | 5 / 5 / 4 stars |
| Rollover risk | 13.6% |
| Recalls on file | 2 |
| Owner complaints | 151 (unverified allegations) |
| Class rank | 28 of 107 SUVs tested for 2020 |
| Data verified | Oct 1, 2026 |
ANALYSISHow safe is the 2020 Hyundai Kona?
The 2020 Hyundai Kona garners an 88 out of 100 on the NHTSA Safety Index, a single-point decline from the 2019 model's 89. This decrease is directly attributable to its defect record, scoring 12 out of a possible 20 points, making it the weakest component of this year's assessment. The model's strength lies in its crash protection, which earned 66 out of 70 points. This is supported by a flawless performance in NHTSA's crash tests, achieving 5-star ratings in frontal and side impact categories, and an overall 5-star rating. Avoidance technology received a perfect 10 out of 10, reflecting the standard inclusion of forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and electronic stability control. However, the 2020 Kona's safety profile is notably impacted by its defect record. The year is defined by two active recalls, one of which specifically targets the 2.0L Nu MPI engine, a component shared across numerous Hyundai models. This engine recall is underscored by 98 engine-related complaints among a total of 151 owner-reported issues. For potential buyers, this engine recall represents the primary safety consideration for this model year.
NCAP // CRASH TESTHow did the 2020 Hyundai Kona perform in crash tests?
The 2020 Kona AWD SUV achieved a 5-star overall safety rating from NHTSA, reflecting top performance in frontal and side crash tests. Both categories earned 5 out of 5 stars. Its rollover resistance test was a notable 4 out of 5 stars, with a 14 percent rollover risk, though the dynamic tip test recorded "No Tip."
Source: NHTSA NCAP, VehicleId 14418
Index breakdown
NCAP // CRASH IMAGESCrash-test images
Crash-test images are US federal government works (NHTSA / NCAP), public domain.
NHTSA // RECALLSDoes the 2020 Hyundai Kona have any recalls?
Two recall campaigns cover this model year. The first, a multi-model engine recall, targets 2019-2021 Kona vehicles equipped with the 2.0L Nu MPI engine and raises meaningful powertrain safety concerns. The second involves incorrect Gross Axle Weight Rating information on the certification label. Neither campaign has been publicly designated a park-outside or do-not-drive order in NHTSA data, but the engine recall warrants prompt VIN verification.
ENGINE21V301000
Risk: A damaged engine may stall, increasing the risk of a crash. In addition, oil may leak onto hot exhaust components, increasing the risk of a fire.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace the engine, free of charge. In addition, Hyundai will deploy Piston Ring Noise Sensing System (PNSS) software. Owner notification letters were mailed August 24, 2021. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460.
Reported 2021-04-28
EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS20V022000
Risk: An incorrect GAWR could result in the vehicle being overloaded, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will install new label stickers displaying the correct GAWR over the affected areas of the certification label, free of charge. The recall began March 2, 2020. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 187.
Reported 2020-01-17
NHTSA // COMPLAINTSWhat do owners report about the 2020 Hyundai Kona?
NHTSA has logged 151 unverified consumer complaints for the 2020 Kona. Alleged issues center heavily on the Engine component with 98 reported cases, followed by Power Train at 18 and Electrical System at 11. These are unverified allegations, not confirmed defects, but the engine concentration aligns with the active engine recall campaign.
151 owner complaints on file. These are unverified allegations reported to NHTSA.
USED BUYERWhat should used buyers know about the 2020 Hyundai Kona?
While overall crash protection is a significant factor in vehicle safety, the 2020 Kona's recall record warrants careful attention from prospective buyers. This model year is subject to multiple recalls, one of which directly addresses engine concerns. Before any purchase, it is imperative to verify that all outstanding recall remedies, particularly for the engine, have been completed. This verification, performed by checking the vehicle's VIN against the NHTSA recall database, is the most crucial safety measure for a used 2020 Kona.
- The 2020 Kona's Safety Index of 88 fell one point below the 2019 model's 89, driven by a defect-record sub-score of only 12 out of 20, the weakest element of this year's safety profile.
- An active engine recall covers 2019-2021 Kona vehicles equipped with the 2.0L Nu MPI engine; this campaign is specific to this model year range and requires VIN-level verification to confirm remedy status.
- NHTSA received 151 unverified complaints for the 2020 Kona, with 98 of those alleging engine-related problems, a concentration that directly mirrors the scope of the active engine recall campaign.
- All three primary crash-avoidance technologies, forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and electronic stability control, are standard on this model year, contributing a perfect 10 out of 10 avoidance-tech sub-score.
RANKINGSWhere the 2020 Hyundai Kona places
The 2020 Hyundai Kona qualifies for these MotorCaliber safety rankings:
FAQ2020 Hyundai Kona safety questions
Was the 2020 Hyundai Kona crash-tested by NHTSA?
Yes. NHTSA crash-tested the 2020 Hyundai Kona, and it earns a NHTSA Safety Index of 88 out of 100, placing it in the Strong band. The index combines federal crash-test stars, standard crash-avoidance tech, and the recall record.
What are the 2020 Hyundai Kona crash-test star ratings?
In NHTSA testing the 2020 Hyundai Kona earned 5 out of 5 stars for overall, 5 out of 5 stars for frontal, 5 out of 5 stars for side, and 4 out of 5 stars for rollover. Its measured rollover risk is 13.6%. Categories NHTSA did not test show as not rated.
How many recalls does the 2020 Hyundai Kona have?
According to NHTSA recall data, 2 vehicle recalls are on file for the 2020 Hyundai Kona. Confirm your VIN at nhtsa.gov to see which apply to your car.
How many complaints have owners filed about the 2020 Hyundai Kona?
According to NHTSA's complaint database, 151 owner complaints are on file for the 2020 Hyundai Kona. These are unverified allegations submitted by owners, not confirmed defects, and include reports involving a crash or a fire.
Cross-check this record against independent expert reviews and the live NHTSA database before you buy.
Other Kona years
Rivals in SUV (2020)
| Vehicle | NHTSA Safety Index | Overall stars | Recalls |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 Infiniti Qx50 | 94/100 | 5 of 5 | 2 |
| 2020 Mazda CX-3 | 94/100 | 5 of 5 | 1 |
| 2020 Mazda CX-30 | 93/100 | 5 of 5 | 3 |
| 2020 Volvo Xc90 T5 | 93/100 | 5 of 5 | 0 |
| 2020 Volvo Xc90 T6 | 93/100 | 5 of 5 | 0 |
| 2020 Volvo Xc90 T8 | 93/100 | 5 of 5 | 0 |
- DATA Pulled directly from NHTSA: New Car Assessment Program crash tests (VehicleId 14418), the recallsByVehicle and complaintsByVehicle records for the Hyundai Kona 2020.
- SCORE The NHTSA Safety Index (0-100) weights crash protection, standard crash-avoidance tech, and the defect record. Full formula on the methodology page. It ranks 28 of 107 in the SUV class for 2020.
- EDITED Written by the MotorCaliber Safety Desk and reviewed for accuracy and plain-language clarity by Ivanna Verstliar, Editor, against the source figures on this page.
- VERIFIED Data last synced Oct 1, 2026. Recalls change; confirm your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. See our corrections policy and disclosure.