NHTSA // CRASH-TESTED
2021 Kia Sportage
Federal crash-test performance, recalls, and complaints, scored into one NHTSA Safety Index.
The Kia Sportage is a compact crossover SUV that has been a steady presence in one of the most competitive segments in the American market. Aimed at value-conscious families and commuters who want practical five-passenger utility without sacrificing modern features, the Sportage competes squarely against the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and Mazda CX-5. It spans our coverage window from 2019 through 2025, and its safety record over that stretch deserves a careful, honest look.
Despite a strong crash-test showing, the 2021 Kia Sportage carries a park-outside or stop-driving recall, so read the recall section first. It has 2 recalls on record, reflected in the score.
- urban drivers exposed to side-impact risk
Reviewers generally regard the Kia Sportage as a well-rounded and competitive compact crossover that delivers strong value in its segment. They tend to praise its cabin quality, feature content, and driving refinement relative to its price point. Reviewers also broadly acknowledge that Kia has made meaningful generational improvements to the model, though some note that earlier iterations in this generation feel less polished than the latest versions.
NCAP // CRASH TESTCrash-test breakdown
Source: NHTSA NCAP, VehicleId 15645
Index breakdown
NCAP // CRASH IMAGESCrash-test images
Crash-test images are US federal government works (NHTSA / NCAP), public domain.
NHTSA // RECALLSRecall record
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
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE21V137000
Risk: An engine compartment fire can increase the risk of injury.
Remedy: Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures as a precaution until the recall repair is complete. Kia will notify owners, and dealers will replace certain fuses in the electrical junction box. Vehicles equipped with an electronic parking brake (EPB) will also receive a HECU software update. Repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began on April 30, 2021. Owners may cont
Reported 2021-03-04
NHTSA // COMPLAINTSOwner complaints
45 owner complaints on file. These are unverified allegations reported to NHTSA.