MODEL
Kia Sedona Safety
NHTSA safety across every Kia Sedona model year we cover.
Across the 3 model years of the Kia Sedona we cover (2019 to 2021), the strongest crash-test showing is the 2021 at 91 on the NHTSA Safety Index, and the lowest is the 2019 at 87. 3 recalls have been issued across those years.
The Kia Sedona is a three-row minivan aimed squarely at family haulers who want practical people-moving capability with a measure of refinement. Covering model years 2019 through 2021, the Sedona competes in a segment where passenger protection is paramount. It targets parents, road-trip families, and buyers who prioritize interior room and everyday usability over sporty pretense.
The 2020 Kia Sedona achieved a NHTSA Safety Index of 91 out of 100, placing it in the Exceptional band. This strong performance is supported by its crash-test results; the vehicle earned a perfect 5 out of 5 stars in both frontal and side impact protection. Its rollover resistance rating stands at 4 out of 5 stars. Across the 2019 to 2021 model years, the Sedona has been subject to 3 recalls. NHTSA records show 63 owner complaints for these model years, including 4 alleged crash incidents, 1 fire allegation, and 6 reported injuries. These are unverified claims and do not represent confirmed defects. The safety data for the Kia Sedona presents a commendable profile.
WHAT REVIEWERS SAYReviewers generally regard the Sedona as a competent, value-oriented minivan that delivers solid practicality and a comfortable ride for family use. Most assessments acknowledge it trails segment leaders in a few refinement areas but praise its overall capability and the strong value proposition it offers buyers who need three-row versatility without premium pricing.
- The 2020 Sedona earns the highest NHTSA Safety Index in the covered range at 91 out of 100, placing it in the Exceptional band, making it the model year to prioritize if safety scoring is your primary filter.
- Frontal and side crash-test results reach a perfect 5 out of 5 stars in the best-performing year, giving families strong confidence in the two most statistically common crash scenarios.
- Rollover protection scores 4 out of 5 stars. Minivans sit higher off the ground than cars, so shoppers should be aware this is a good but not top-tier result and may factor into how they evaluate the vehicle for highway driving.
- Three recalls across the 2019 to 2021 model years is a manageable number, but buyers should verify with NHTSA's VIN lookup tool that any outstanding recall work has been completed before purchase, particularly on used examples.
Most-recalled year on record: 2019 Kia Sedona with 2 recalls.