NHTSA // CRASH-TESTED
2025 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.
The 2025 Kia Sportage earns an NHTSA Safety Index of 87 out of 100, an strong result driven by its federal crash-test stars and its recall record. Both frontal and side crash protection reached the full 5 stars. It has 1 recall 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 20724
Index breakdown
NCAP // CRASH IMAGESCrash-test images
Crash-test images are US federal government works (NHTSA / NCAP), public domain.
NHTSA // RECALLSRecall record
TRAILER HITCHES25V874000
Risk: An instrument panel screen that fails to display critical safety information, such as the speedometer or warning lights, can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the tow hitch harness control module, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 13, 2026. Owners may contact Kia Customer Service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC359. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will be searchable on NHTSA.gov beginning December 31, 2025.
Reported 2025-12-17
NHTSA // COMPLAINTSOwner complaints
48 owner complaints on file. These are unverified allegations reported to NHTSA.