NHTSA // CRASH-TESTED
2026 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.
The 2026 Kia Sorento earns an NHTSA Safety Index of 83 out of 100, an strong result driven by its federal crash-test stars and its recall record. It has 2 recalls on record, reflected in the score.
- 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 21182
Index breakdown
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
TIRES:TEMPORARY/EMERGENCY SPARE TIRE25V745000
Risk: Anti-lock braking or traction control systems that do not function properly can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the spare wheel and tire assembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 3, 2025. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC355. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will be searchable on NHTSA.gov beginning November 13, 2025.
Reported 2025-10-31
NHTSA // COMPLAINTSOwner complaints
4 owner complaints on file. These are unverified allegations reported to NHTSA.