MotorCaliberNHTSA Safety Index
NHTSA crash test of the 2026 Kia Sorento Hybrid

NHTSA // CRASH-TESTED

2026 Kia Sorento Hybrid

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

1Recalls
4Complaints
0Investigations
ABOUT THE KIA SORENTO HYBRID

The 2026 Kia Sorento Hybrid is a three-row capable midsize SUV that blends electrified efficiency with family-hauling practicality. Positioned squarely against mainstream hybrid crossovers, it targets value-conscious buyers who want a roomy, tech-forward vehicle without sacrificing everyday usability. Kia has built the Sorento into one of its most important nameplates, and the hybrid variant carries that ambition forward with a clear eye on the family-SUV segment.

VERDICT

The 2026 Kia Sorento Hybrid earns an NHTSA Safety Index of 84 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 Sorento Hybrid as a well-rounded midsize SUV that punches above its price point in refinement and interior quality. They tend to praise its composed ride, intuitive infotainment layout, and upscale cabin materials for the segment. Driving dynamics are described as smooth and confidence-inspiring, and the hybrid powertrain is noted for delivering a seamless, unhurried character that suits family use well.

NCAP // CRASH TESTCrash-test breakdown

Overall
Frontal
Side
Rollover
Rollover risk 15.9%

Source: NHTSA NCAP, VehicleId 21184

Index breakdown

Crash protection61/70
Avoidance tech5/10
Defect record17.75/20
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

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

NHTSA // COMPLAINTSOwner complaints

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

2reported crash
0reported fire
1reported injuries
0reported deaths
Most-reported systemsService Brakes 2Engine And Engine Cooling 1Engine 1Hydraulic 1Forward Collision Avoidance 1Unknown Or Other 1

Rivals in SUV (2026)

Last verified 2026-07-03. Sources: NHTSA SafetyRatings (VehicleId 21184), recallsByVehicle, complaintsByVehicle for Kia Sorento Hybrid 2026. Class rank 121 of 143 in SUV 2026. Methodology · Disclosure