MODEL
Hyundai Venue
NHTSA safety across every Hyundai Venue model year we cover.
Across the 7 model years of the Hyundai Venue we cover (2020 to 2026), the strongest crash-test showing is the 2021 at 89 on the NHTSA Safety Index, and the lowest is the 2026 at 83. 5 recalls have been issued across those years.
The Hyundai Venue is a subcompact SUV that slots below the Tucson and Kona in Hyundai's crossover lineup, targeting budget-conscious urban drivers and first-time SUV buyers who prioritize maneuverability and affordability over size. Spanning model years 2020 through 2025, the Venue competes in one of the most crowded segments in the American market, where safety credentials increasingly matter to shoppers.
At MotorCaliber, we focus strictly on the safety picture, and the Venue presents a mixed but generally encouraging profile across its covered model years. Its best NHTSA Safety Index of 89 out of 100, recorded in the 2021 model year, earns a Strong band designation, which is a respectable showing for an entry-level subcompact. Crash-test geometry tells a nuanced story: the side protection rating of 5 out of 5 stars is genuinely impressive for a vehicle in this class, while the frontal and rollover ratings of 4 out of 5 stars are solid without being exceptional. Rollover risk is a persistent conversation in tall, narrow subcompact SUVs, so that 4-star result deserves honest acknowledgment. Across the 2020 to 2025 span, the Venue has accumulated 5 recalls, a moderate count that shoppers should verify against their specific VIN through NHTSA's database. Owner complaint volume sits at 136 total, with 8 alleged crash-related incidents, 3 reported injuries, and 1 fire allegation. These are unverified allegations, not confirmed findings, but the complaint density warrants attention. Bottom line: the Venue is a reasonable safety performer for its price point and segment, with standout side-crash protection. Shoppers should confirm all open recalls are resolved before purchase.
WHAT REVIEWERS SAYReviewers generally regard the Venue as a practical and well-priced entry into the subcompact SUV segment, praising its straightforward feature set and urban-friendly dimensions. Most acknowledge that its smaller footprint and base-level positioning come with expected compromises in power and refinement, while noting that Hyundai has equipped it competitively for its class.
- The 2021 Venue earned the strongest NHTSA Safety Index in the covered range at 89 out of 100, so shoppers comparing model years should treat 2021 as a safety benchmark within this generation.
- Side-crash protection is a genuine strength, with a 5 out of 5 star NHTSA rating in the best test year, which is notable for a narrow subcompact SUV body style.
- Five recalls have been issued across the 2020 to 2025 model years. Always run your specific VIN through NHTSA's free recall lookup tool to confirm all outstanding recalls have been addressed before finalizing a purchase.
- Owner complaints total 136 across covered years, including 8 alleged crash-related incidents and 3 reported injuries. These are unverified allegations, but reviewing the complaint details on NHTSA's database can surface patterns worth discussing with a mechanic during a pre-purchase inspection.
Most-recalled year on record: 2021 Hyundai Venue with 2 recalls.