MODEL
Kia Sportage Plug-In Safety
NHTSA safety across every Kia Sportage Plug-In model year we cover.
Across the 2 model years of the Kia Sportage Plug-In we cover (2024 to 2025), no year has an NHTSA crash-test score on record. 4 recalls have been issued across those years.
The Kia Sportage Plug-In Hybrid is a compact crossover SUV competing in one of the most crowded segments in the American market. Aimed at budget-conscious buyers who want the flexibility of electric driving without full EV commitment, it blends everyday practicality with electrified efficiency. For 2024 and 2025, it carries Kia's sharp styling and feature-rich reputation into plug-in territory, appealing to families and commuters alike.
The 2024-2025 Kia Sportage Plug-In lacks federal crash-test ratings from NHTSA, leaving a significant gap in its safety profile. This absence of star ratings means consumers cannot evaluate its performance in simulated impacts. NHTSA data does show four recalls across the two model years. While this may reflect the early production cycle of a new powertrain, prospective owners should confirm all open recalls are addressed for any specific VIN. Owner complaints logged with NHTSA total 111 across both years. These complaints include 10 reported crashes and 15 reported injuries, figures that warrant attention given the vehicle's market position and the absence of crash-test data. For a mainstream crossover, the lack of complete safety data, alongside these complaint and recall numbers, requires careful consideration.
WHAT REVIEWERS SAYReviewers generally find the Sportage Plug-In to be a well-rounded compact crossover with a distinctive exterior design, a thoughtfully arranged interior, and a comfortable ride quality suited to daily driving. Most praise its upscale cabin materials and intuitive infotainment layout for the segment. Some reviewers note that the plug-in powertrain adds a layer of complexity that buyers should familiarize themselves with before committing.
- NHTSA has not issued crash-test ratings for the 2024 or 2025 Kia Sportage Plug-In, so there are no federal star scores available to benchmark its structural safety against competitors.
- Four recalls have been issued across the 2024 and 2025 model years. Shoppers should run any prospective vehicle's VIN through NHTSA's recall lookup tool to confirm all recalls have been remedied before purchase.
- Owner complaints logged with NHTSA total 111 across the covered model years, with 10 reported crashes and 15 reported injuries noted among them. While these are unverified allegations, the figures warrant attention given the model's relatively limited market footprint.
- As a plug-in hybrid, the Sportage PHEV adds battery and charging system components that are relatively new to this platform. Monitoring NHTSA's complaint and recall database periodically after purchase is a practical step for early adopters of any new electrified powertrain.
Most-recalled year on record: 2024 Kia Sportage Plug-In with 3 recalls.