NHTSA // CRASH-TESTED
2021 Kia Sorento
Federal crash-test performance, recalls, and complaints, scored into one NHTSA Safety Index.
The Kia Sorento is a three-row capable midsize SUV that has built a loyal following among growing families and value-conscious buyers who want practical versatility without sacrificing style. Competing squarely against the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander, the Sorento positions itself as a sensible, well-rounded choice. From the 2019 redesign through the current 2025 model, its safety story is worth examining closely before you sign anything.
Despite a strong crash-test showing, the 2021 Kia Sorento carries a park-outside or stop-driving recall, so read the recall section first. It has 4 recalls on record, reflected in the score.
- new and teen drivers who want standard crash-avoidance tech
- urban drivers exposed to side-impact risk
Reviewers generally regard the Sorento as a strong value in the midsize SUV segment, praising its interior quality, available third-row seating, and feature content relative to its price point. Most consider it a competitive family vehicle with a polished driving character, though some note that rivals offer more refinement or cargo efficiency at comparable trim levels.
NCAP // CRASH TESTCrash-test breakdown
Source: NHTSA NCAP, VehicleId 16684
Index breakdown
NCAP // CRASH IMAGESCrash-test images
Crash-test images are US federal government works (NHTSA / NCAP), public domain.
NHTSA // RECALLSRecall record
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:FUSES AND CIRCUIT BREAKERS25V649000
Risk: A fire increases the risk of injury.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the wiring harness and blower motor resistor, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 23, 2026. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC351. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will be searchable on NHTSA.gov beginning October 9, 2025.
Reported 2025-09-25
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION22V760000
Risk: Loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the transmission, as necessary. Dealers will also update the transmission control unit software. All repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 9, 2022. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC250.
Reported 2022-10-11
TRAILER HITCHES22V703000
Risk: A fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury.
Remedy: Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will inspect the vehicle, and, as necessary, replace the fuse and/or tow hitch harness module, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 11, 2023. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC249.
Reported 2022-09-19
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS21V519000
Risk: A fuel leak increases the risk of a fire.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect and tighten, or replace the fuel pipe as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 21, 2021. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC214.
Reported 2021-07-08
NHTSA // COMPLAINTSOwner complaints
0 owner complaints on file. These are unverified allegations reported to NHTSA.