MODEL
Hyundai Sonata Safety
NHTSA safety across every Hyundai Sonata model year we cover.
Across the 8 model years of the Hyundai Sonata we cover (2019 to 2026), the strongest crash-test showing is the 2025 at 95 on the NHTSA Safety Index, and the lowest is the 2019 at 84. 15 recalls have been issued across those years.
The Hyundai Sonata is a midsize family sedan competing in one of the most contested segments in the American market. Positioned as a value-forward alternative to the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry, the Sonata targets commuters, families, and budget-conscious buyers who want a spacious, well-equipped four-door without premium pricing. Our coverage spans the 2019 through 2025 model years, a generation that brought meaningful safety technology upgrades.
The 2025 Hyundai Sonata achieved an Exceptional 95 out of 100 on our NHTSA Safety Index, marking a high point for the model within its 2019 to 2025 coverage. This performance is largely supported by its federal crash-test ratings. The Sonata earned 5 out of 5 stars for both rollover resistance and side-impact protection. Its frontal crash rating stands at 4 out of 5 stars, a solid result though not the highest possible score in this category. Federal data shows 14 recalls for the Sonata across these model years. Notably, at least one of these recalls carried a park-outside or do-not-drive designation, the most serious classification issued by federal regulators. This level of recall urgency requires owners to verify their vehicle identification number immediately at NHTSA.gov. The 660 owner complaints logged for this generation include 33 alleged crashes and 27 reported injuries. Additionally, 6 fire-related allegations were recorded, which, while unverified, warrant awareness. The Sonata's crash-test performance is genuinely competitive, and the 2025 model's Safety Index score reflects a strong showing in occupant protection. However, the volume and severity of its recall record mean diligent VIN checking is essential for owners of this generation.
WHAT REVIEWERS SAYReviewers generally regard the Sonata as a competent, well-rounded midsize sedan that punches above its price point in features and interior quality. Most professional assessments highlight its comfortable ride and generous standard technology as standout traits, while noting that the segment is intensely competitive and that rivals occasionally edge it out in driving dynamics or powertrain refinement.
- At least one recall across the 2019-2025 generation carried a park-outside or do-not-drive directive - the most serious warning federal regulators can issue. Check your VIN at NHTSA.gov before driving a used Sonata.
- The 2025 model year achieves a 95 out of 100 NHTSA Safety Index, placing it in the Exceptional band, so shoppers with flexibility on model year should prioritize the newest examples for the strongest federal safety standing.
- Side-impact and rollover crash-test ratings both reach 5 out of 5 stars, which is reassuring for a family-hauling sedan, but the frontal crash rating of 4 out of 5 stars falls one step short of perfect and is worth factoring in if head-on protection is your top priority.
- Owner complaints across this generation include 6 fire-related allegations and 27 reported injuries - all unverified - but the fire claims are a category that warrants extra scrutiny when reviewing open or incomplete recalls on any specific vehicle.
Most-recalled year on record: 2021 Hyundai Sonata with 4 recalls.