MotorCaliberNHTSA Safety Index
NHTSA crash test of the 2024 Kia K5

NHTSA // CRASH-TESTED

2024 Kia K5

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

2Recalls
25Complaints
0Investigations
ABOUT THE KIA K5

The Kia K5 is a front-wheel-drive midsize sedan aimed at value-conscious buyers who want a stylish, well-equipped alternative to the Honda Accord or Toyota Camry. Replacing the Optima nameplate for 2021, the K5 targets younger commuters and families seeking modern design and competitive pricing in a crowded but important segment.

VERDICT

The 2024 Kia K5 earns an NHTSA Safety Index of 83 out of 100, an strong result driven by its federal crash-test stars and its recall record. It has 2 recalls on record, reflected in the score.

WHO IT IS FOR
  • urban drivers exposed to side-impact risk
WHAT REVIEWERS SAY

Reviewers generally praise the K5 for its sharp styling, composed ride, and strong value proposition within the midsize sedan segment. Most consider it a credible challenger to more established rivals, citing its feature content and driving dynamics as highlights. Safety technology availability tends to receive positive mention, though some reviewers note that the K5 trails top-tier competitors in overall refinement.

NCAP // CRASH TESTCrash-test breakdown

Overall
Frontal
Side
Rollover
Rollover risk 10.7%

Source: NHTSA NCAP, VehicleId 19652

Index breakdown

Crash protection61/70
Avoidance tech5/10
Defect record17.25/20
Forward collision warning: Standard & OptionalLane 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

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE25V794000

Risk: A melted fuel tank can leak, increasing the risk of a fire.

Remedy: Dealers will replace the check valve. The fuel tank will be inspected for damage and replaced as necessary. All repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 16, 2026. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC356. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will be searchable on NHTSA.gov

Reported 2025-11-17

STRUCTURE:BODY:ROOF AND PILLARS25V493000

Risk: Detached trim pieces can create a road hazard for other vehicles, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the C-pillar trim assemblies, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 19, 2025. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC346.

Reported 2025-07-28

NHTSA // COMPLAINTSOwner complaints

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

1reported crash
0reported fire
1reported injuries
0reported deaths
Most-reported systemsEngine 8Structure 7Unknown Or Other 4Electrical System 4Power Train 3Forward Collision Avoidance 3

Other K5 years

Rivals in Sedan (2024)

Last verified 2026-07-02. Sources: NHTSA SafetyRatings (VehicleId 19652), recallsByVehicle, complaintsByVehicle for Kia K5 2024. Class rank 72 of 91 in Sedan 2024. Methodology · Disclosure