NHTSA // CRASH-TESTED
2025 Kia K4
Federal crash-test performance, recalls, and complaints, scored into one NHTSA Safety Index.
The Kia K4 is a compact sedan introduced for the 2025 model year, slotting into one of the most competitive segments in the American market. Aimed at value-conscious buyers who want a stylish, modern alternative to the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla, the K4 replaces the Forte in Kia's lineup and brings a sharper design and updated feature set to the table.
The 2025 Kia K4 earns an NHTSA Safety Index of 83 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 2 recalls on record, reflected in the score.
- families prioritizing rollover safety
- urban drivers exposed to side-impact risk
Reviewers generally regard the K4 as a stylish and well-equipped compact sedan that raises the bar over the Forte it replaces. They tend to praise its cabin quality and feature content for the price point, while noting that the segment is intensely competitive. Ride comfort and everyday usability are frequently highlighted as strengths.
NCAP // CRASH TESTCrash-test breakdown
Source: NHTSA NCAP, VehicleId 20718
Index breakdown
NCAP // CRASH IMAGESCrash-test images
Crash-test images are US federal government works (NHTSA / NCAP), public domain.
NHTSA // RECALLSRecall record
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER/PANEL26V046000
Risk: An instrument panel display that fails to show critical safety information, such as the speedometer, tire pressure, or warning lights, increases the risk of a crash.
Remedy: The instrument panel display software will be updated over-the-air (OTA) or by a dealer, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed March 26, 2026. Owners may contact Kia Customer Service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC361. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will become searchable on NHTSA.gov on February 9, 2026.
Reported 2026-01-27
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:CRITICAL FASTENERS25V548000
Risk: A loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the sub engine assembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed September 12, 2025. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC349.
Reported 2025-08-25
NHTSA // COMPLAINTSOwner complaints
37 owner complaints on file. These are unverified allegations reported to NHTSA.