MODEL
Hyundai Veloster Safety
NHTSA safety across every Hyundai Veloster model year we cover.
Across the 3 model years of the Hyundai Veloster we cover (2019 to 2021), no year has an NHTSA crash-test score on record. 4 recalls have been issued across those years.
The Hyundai Veloster is a compact hatchback that occupies an unusual niche in the mainstream market, offering a distinctive three-door asymmetric layout that appeals to younger, style-conscious buyers who want something genuinely different from the typical sedan or crossover. Covering model years 2019 through 2021, this second-generation version represents Hyundai's most expressive and driver-focused small car, aimed squarely at those who prioritize personality alongside practicality.
No federal crash-test ratings are available for the 2019-2021 Hyundai Veloster, meaning no star rating or Safety Index can be assigned. This absence of data is a primary consideration for safety-conscious buyers, as it removes the benchmark of a government-validated crash score. Across these model years, the Veloster was subject to 4 recalls. Prospective owners should consult the NHTSA database using the vehicle's VIN to confirm all recall work has been completed; open recalls represent an addressable safety concern. Owner complaints for the 2019-2021 Veloster total 75. This includes 2 reported crashes and 3 reported injuries, though these remain unverified allegations rather than confirmed incident counts. There were no reported fires or deaths. The safety profile of the Veloster, while engaging in other aspects, remains incomplete due to the lack of federal crash-test data. Buyers must rely on manufacturer design and recall verification.
WHAT REVIEWERS SAYReviewers generally find the Veloster to be one of the more entertaining and visually distinctive compact hatchbacks in its class, praising its responsive handling and spirited powertrain options. Interior materials and refinement are considered adequate for the segment rather than class-leading, and the asymmetric door layout earns consistent attention for its novelty, though some reviewers note it adds a slight learning curve to everyday use.
- NHTSA did not crash-test the 2019-2021 Veloster, so there are no federal star ratings available for these model years. Shoppers who prioritize verified crash-test scores should weigh this gap carefully.
- Four recalls were issued across the 2019-2021 model years. Always run a VIN check on the NHTSA website before purchase to confirm all recall repairs have been completed by a dealer.
- The owner complaint file includes 2 reported crashes and 3 reported injuries across 75 total complaints. These are unverified allegations, but their presence means real-world concerns have been formally submitted to federal regulators.
- Because this is a low-volume niche model, the complaint count of 75 should be interpreted in context. Fewer units sold means fewer total complaints are expected compared to high-volume mainstream vehicles, so individual complaint categories deserve closer reading rather than dismissal.
Most-recalled year on record: 2019 Hyundai Veloster with 2 recalls.