MotorCaliberNHTSA Safety Index
NHTSA crash test of the 2020 Kia Niro

NHTSA // CRASH-TESTED

2020 Kia Niro

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

1Recalls
35Complaints
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 2020 Kia Niro earns an NHTSA Safety Index of 82 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 14393

Index breakdown

Crash protection61/70
Avoidance tech6/10
Defect record14.5/20
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

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

2reported crash
3reported fire
2reported injuries
0reported deaths
Most-reported systemsPower Train 8Unknown Or Other 8Engine 8Electrical System 6Service Brakes 3Forward Collision Avoidance 3

Other Niro years

Rivals in SUV (2020)

Last verified 2026-07-02. Sources: NHTSA SafetyRatings (VehicleId 14393), recallsByVehicle, complaintsByVehicle for Kia Niro 2020. Class rank 56 of 107 in SUV 2020. Methodology · Disclosure