MotorCaliberNHTSA Safety Index
NHTSA crash test of the 2023 Kia EV6

NHTSA // CRASH-TESTED

2023 Kia EV6

Federal crash-test performance, recalls, and complaints, scored into one NHTSA Safety Index.

3Recalls
131Complaints
0Investigations
ABOUT THE KIA EV6

The Kia EV6 is a sleek, performance-oriented electric crossover SUV targeting tech-savvy buyers who want driving excitement alongside zero-emission credentials. Positioned squarely against rivals like the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Ford Mustang Mach-E, the EV6 has earned a reputation as one of the more driver-focused entries in the rapidly growing electric SUV segment, appealing to both early adopters and mainstream family shoppers.

VERDICT

The 2023 Kia EV6 earns an NHTSA Safety Index of 96 out of 100, an exceptional 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 3 recalls on record, reflected in the score.

WHO IT IS FOR
  • families prioritizing rollover safety
  • new and teen drivers who want standard crash-avoidance tech
  • urban drivers exposed to side-impact risk
WHAT REVIEWERS SAY

Reviewers generally regard the Kia EV6 as one of the most compelling electric crossovers available, praising its engaging driving dynamics, fast charging capability, and well-resolved interior. Most consider it a benchmark in its segment for driver appeal. Some reviewers note that, as a newer platform, it continues to mature, and they encourage buyers to stay current on any manufacturer updates.

NCAP // CRASH TESTCrash-test breakdown

Overall
Frontal
Side
Rollover
Rollover risk 8.2%

Source: NHTSA NCAP, VehicleId 18804

Index breakdown

Crash protection70/70
Avoidance tech10/10
Defect record16/20
Forward collision warning: StandardLane departure warning: StandardStability control: Standard

NCAP // CRASH IMAGESCrash-test images

Crash-test images are US federal government works (NHTSA / NCAP), public domain.

NHTSA // RECALLSRecall record

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY24V867000

Risk: A loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the ICCU and its fuse, as necessary. In addition, dealers will update the ICCU software. All repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 13, 2024. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC327. This recall expands and replaces previous recall number 24V-200. Vehicles pr

Reported 2024-11-18

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY24V200000

Risk: A loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the ICCU and its fuse, as necessary. In addition, dealers will update the ICCU software. All repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed April 29, 2024. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC302.

Reported 2024-03-14

POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE:DRIVESHAFT24V057000

Risk: A loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Dealers will replace the drive shaft, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 28, 2024. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC295.

Reported 2024-01-31

NHTSA // COMPLAINTSOwner complaints

131 owner complaints on file. These are unverified allegations reported to NHTSA.

2reported crash
0reported fire
0reported injuries
0reported deaths
Most-reported systemsElectrical System 99Fuel/Propulsion System 29Power Train 24Unknown Or Other 15Engine 13Vehicle Speed Control 7

Other EV6 years

Rivals in SUV (2023)

Last verified 2026-07-02. Sources: NHTSA SafetyRatings (VehicleId 18804), recallsByVehicle, complaintsByVehicle for Kia Ev6 2023. Class rank 6 of 139 in SUV 2023. Methodology · Disclosure