NHTSA // CRASH-TESTED
2020 Hyundai Sonata
Federal crash-test performance, recalls, and complaints, scored into one NHTSA Safety Index.
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 2020 Hyundai Sonata earns an NHTSA Safety Index of 87 out of 100, an strong result driven by its federal crash-test stars and its recall record. Its 5-star rollover rating stands out for families and child-seat buyers. It has 4 recalls on record, reflected in the score.
- families prioritizing rollover safety
- new and teen drivers who want standard crash-avoidance tech
- urban drivers exposed to side-impact risk
Reviewers 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.
NCAP // CRASH TESTCrash-test breakdown
Source: NHTSA NCAP, VehicleId 14409
Index breakdown
NCAP // CRASH IMAGESCrash-test images
Crash-test images are US federal government works (NHTSA / NCAP), public domain.
NHTSA // RECALLSRecall record
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE25V796000
Risk: A melted fuel tank can leak, increasing the risk of a fire.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the check valve. The fuel tank assembly will be inspected for damage and replaced if necessary. Additionally, dealers will inspect and update the engine control unit software. All repairs will be performed as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed beginning March 13, 2026. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyu
Reported 2025-11-18
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:TRUNK LID:LATCH22V196000
Risk: A person inside the trunk compartment may become trapped, increasing their risk of injury.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect the trunk latch and replace the trunk latch base, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 26, 2022. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 221/010G.
Reported 2022-03-28
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE20V213000
Risk: Unintended vehicle movement increases the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the RSPA software, free of charge. The recall began June 3, 2020. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 191.
Reported 2020-04-09
EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS20V122000
Risk: The incorrect tire information may mislead the vehicle owner to install the wrong tire size, potentially affecting vehicle handling, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will install new label stickers over the tire pressure label and in the owner's manual, free of charge. The recall began April 22, 2020. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 190.
Reported 2020-02-28
NHTSA // COMPLAINTSOwner complaints
165 owner complaints on file. These are unverified allegations reported to NHTSA.