NHTSA // CRASH-TESTED
2022 Kia Sportage Safety Ratings
The 2022 Kia Sportage scores 79 out of 100 on the NHTSA Safety Index (Average), with a 5-star overall NHTSA crash rating, 1 recall, and 42 owner complaints on file.
Updated Oct 1, 2026 from NHTSA data · Reviewed by Ivanna Verstliar
The 2022 Kia Sportage's safety profile is defined by strong crash-test scores, yet its overall NHTSA Safety Index sits at an average 79 out of 100. This is largely due to a defect record score of 10.75 out of 20, which includes a notable recall advising owners to park the vehicle outdoors. While its federal crash-test performance provides a solid foundation, the recall and defect history prevent the 2022 Sportage from achieving a higher safety standing.
The 2022 Kia Sportage SUV AWD received a 5-out-of-5-star overall crash rating and a NHTSA Safety Index of 79 out of 100 based on NHTSA data.
MotorCaliber Safety Desk // NHTSA data, verified Oct 1, 2026
Among the 135 SUVs from 2022 that NHTSA has crash-tested, the 2022 Kia Sportage ranks 107 for overall NHTSA Safety Index.
- urban drivers exposed to side-impact risk
| NHTSA Safety Index | 79 / 100 (Average) |
|---|---|
| Overall crash rating | 5 of 5 stars |
| Frontal / Side / Rollover | 4 / 5 / 4 stars |
| Rollover risk | 14.7% |
| Recalls on file | 1 (includes park-outside) |
| Owner complaints | 42 (unverified allegations) |
| Class rank | 107 of 135 SUVs tested for 2022 |
| Data verified | Oct 1, 2026 |
ANALYSISHow safe is the 2022 Kia Sportage?
The 2022 Kia Sportage AWD represents a measurable step forward from the 2021 model, with the NHTSA Safety Index rising four points from 75 to 79, both within the Average band. That improvement is largely driven by crash protection, which scores 61 out of 70, backed by a 5-star overall NHTSA rating and a perfect 5-star side result. The avoidance technology score of 7.5 out of 10 reflects a mixed standard-equipment picture: lane departure warning comes fitted as standard, but forward collision warning is only optional on this trim configuration, a gap that limits the score. The defect record component at 10.75 out of 20 is the clearest drag on the Index. The single recall this year carries real weight because it is a park-outside campaign tied to trailer hitches, meaning NHTSA judged the risk severe enough to advise against enclosed storage. The 42 unverified complaints, including five alleged issues with the Forward Collision Avoidance system, add texture to the defect score and are worth monitoring. The net picture for this specific year is a vehicle that tests well in controlled crash scenarios but carries an active safety advisory that any prospective buyer must resolve.
NCAP // CRASH TESTHow did the 2022 Kia Sportage perform in crash tests?
The 2022 Kia Sportage AWD achieved a 5 out of 5 star overall safety rating from NHTSA. Its side protection registered the highest mark of 5 stars. Frontal crash protection and rollover prevention both earned 4 out of 5 stars; the measured rollover risk for this model is 15 percent, confirmed by a "No Tip" result in the dynamic test.
Source: NHTSA NCAP, VehicleId 16607
Index breakdown
NCAP // CRASH IMAGESCrash-test images
Crash-test images are US federal government works (NHTSA / NCAP), public domain.
NHTSA // RECALLSDoes the 2022 Kia Sportage have any recalls?
The 2022 Kia Sportage carries one recall campaign, and it is serious: a trailer hitch defect that triggered a park-outside advisory. Kia's recall covers certain 2016-2022 Sorento and related models, and the 2022 Sportage falls within its scope. Owners should verify remedy completion by VIN before driving or storing the vehicle in an enclosed space.
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
NHTSA // COMPLAINTSWhat do owners report about the 2022 Kia Sportage?
NHTSA has logged 42 unverified owner complaints for this model year. Alleged problem areas include the Engine (19 reports), Electrical System (5), Forward Collision Avoidance system (5), and Trailer Hitches (4). Six alleged crashes and two alleged fires are among the reported incidents. All are unverified consumer allegations.
42 owner complaints on file. These are unverified allegations reported to NHTSA.
USED BUYERWhat should used buyers know about the 2022 Kia Sportage?
A critical recall issued for the 2022 Kia Sportage requires specific attention from prospective buyers. The park-outside trailer hitch campaign necessitates that owners confirm the completion of the remedy at a Kia dealership and obtain written verification before purchase. This measure is essential to address the potential fire risk identified with the accessory trailer hitch harness. Failure to do so could leave a buyer with an open recall and an unresolved safety concern.
- The 2022 model year carries a park-outside recall tied to trailer hitches, a campaign serious enough that NHTSA advised against enclosed garage storage until the remedy is completed.
- The Safety Index rose four points over the 2021 Sportage, from 75 to 79, driven primarily by a crash protection score of 61 out of 70 and a 5-star overall NHTSA rating.
- Forward collision warning is listed as optional rather than standard on this configuration, which constrains the avoidance technology sub-score to 7.5 out of 10 and is a concrete equipment gap buyers should verify on any specific unit.
- Five of the 42 unverified NHTSA complaints for this model year allege problems with the Forward Collision Avoidance system, a pattern worth noting given that the system is a key active-safety feature on this vehicle.
RANKINGSWhere the 2022 Kia Sportage places
The 2022 Kia Sportage qualifies for these MotorCaliber safety rankings:
FAQ2022 Kia Sportage safety questions
Was the 2022 Kia Sportage crash-tested by NHTSA?
Yes. NHTSA crash-tested the 2022 Kia Sportage, and it earns a NHTSA Safety Index of 79 out of 100, placing it in the Average band. The index combines federal crash-test stars, standard crash-avoidance tech, and the recall record.
What are the 2022 Kia Sportage crash-test star ratings?
In NHTSA testing the 2022 Kia Sportage earned 5 out of 5 stars for overall, 4 out of 5 stars for frontal, 5 out of 5 stars for side, and 4 out of 5 stars for rollover. Its measured rollover risk is 14.7%. Categories NHTSA did not test show as not rated.
How many recalls does the 2022 Kia Sportage have?
According to NHTSA recall data, 1 vehicle recall is on file for the 2022 Kia Sportage, including a park-outside or do-not-drive campaign, which is the most serious class of recall. Confirm your VIN at nhtsa.gov to see which apply to your car.
How many complaints have owners filed about the 2022 Kia Sportage?
According to NHTSA's complaint database, 42 owner complaints are on file for the 2022 Kia Sportage. These are unverified allegations submitted by owners, not confirmed defects, and include reports involving a crash or a fire.
Cross-check this record against independent expert reviews and the live NHTSA database before you buy.
Other Sportage years
Rivals in SUV (2022)
| Vehicle | NHTSA Safety Index | Overall stars | Recalls |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 Tesla Model Y 5-Seat | 100/100 | 5 of 5 | 0 |
| 2022 Infiniti Qx55 | 99/100 | not rated | 1 |
| 2022 Buick Encore GX | 95/100 | 5 of 5 | 1 |
| 2022 Buick Envision | 95/100 | 5 of 5 | 1 |
| 2022 Nissan Murano | 95/100 | 5 of 5 | 0 |
| 2022 Buick Enclave | 94/100 | 4 of 5 | 1 |
- DATA Pulled directly from NHTSA: New Car Assessment Program crash tests (VehicleId 16607), the recallsByVehicle and complaintsByVehicle records for the Kia Sportage 2022.
- SCORE The NHTSA Safety Index (0-100) weights crash protection, standard crash-avoidance tech, and the defect record. Full formula on the methodology page. It ranks 107 of 135 in the SUV class for 2022.
- EDITED Written by the MotorCaliber Safety Desk and reviewed for accuracy and plain-language clarity by Ivanna Verstliar, Editor, against the source figures on this page.
- VERIFIED Data last synced Oct 1, 2026. Recalls change; confirm your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. See our corrections policy and disclosure.