MotorCaliberNHTSA Safety Index
NHTSA crash test of the 2019 Kia Niro

NHTSA // CRASH-TESTED

2019 Kia Niro

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

1Recalls
79Complaints
1Investigations
ABOUT THE KIA NIRO

The Kia Niro is a compact crossover SUV that has carved out a distinctive niche as one of the few models offered in hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and fully electric variants under a single nameplate. Aimed at environmentally conscious commuters and small families who want versatility without a large footprint, the Niro competes in one of the most crowded segments in the American market. Its 2019 through 2025 model year run covers a significant redesign, making safety data worth examining closely.

VERDICT

The 2019 Kia Niro earns an NHTSA Safety Index of 80 out of 100, an strong result driven by its federal crash-test stars and its recall record. It has 1 recall on record, reflected in the score.

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

Reviewers generally regard the Kia Niro as a practical, value-oriented choice in the compact crossover segment, praising its powertrain variety and user-friendly interior. Most find it competent rather than exciting to drive, and the consensus tends to highlight its efficiency credentials and straightforward feature set as primary strengths rather than any standout dynamic qualities.

NCAP // CRASH TESTCrash-test breakdown

Overall
Frontal
Side
Rollover
Rollover risk 12.1%

Source: NHTSA NCAP, VehicleId 13330

Index breakdown

Crash protection61/70
Avoidance tech6/10
Defect record13/20
Forward collision warning: OptionalLane departure warning: OptionalStability control: Standard

NCAP // CRASH IMAGESCrash-test images

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

NHTSA // RECALLSRecall record

POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:INTERNAL:CLUTCHES/BANDS:ACTUATORS/SOLENOIDS23V534000

Risk: A fire increases the risk of injury.

Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the hydraulic clutch actuator as necessary and install a new fuse, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 29, 2023. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC276.

Reported 2023-07-31

NHTSA // COMPLAINTSOwner complaints

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

4reported crash
2reported fire
3reported injuries
1reported deaths
Most-reported systemsPower Train 30Electrical System 15Engine 14Unknown Or Other 12Service Brakes 10Fuel/Propulsion System 10

Other Niro years

Rivals in SUV (2019)

Last verified 2026-07-03. Sources: NHTSA SafetyRatings (VehicleId 13330), recallsByVehicle, complaintsByVehicle for Kia Niro 2019. Class rank 56 of 93 in SUV 2019. Methodology · Disclosure