MODEL
Kia Stinger Safety
NHTSA safety across every Kia Stinger model year we cover.
Across the 5 model years of the Kia Stinger we cover (2019 to 2023), the strongest crash-test showing is the 2023 at 94 on the NHTSA Safety Index, and the lowest is the 2020 at 82. 16 recalls have been issued across those years.
The Kia Stinger is a rear-wheel-drive sport sedan that punches squarely into the entry-luxury performance segment, competing against the likes of the BMW 3 Series and Genesis G70. Aimed at driving enthusiasts who want genuine rear-drive dynamics without a German price tag, this fastback four-door has carried the Stinger nameplate from 2019 through 2023, building a loyal following among buyers who prioritize engagement alongside practicality.
The 2022 Kia Stinger achieved an Exceptional Safety Index of 94 out of 100, marking it as a strong contender in safety for its model year. The vehicle's crash-test performance stands out, particularly in side and rollover protection, both rated at 5 out of 5 stars by NHTSA. Frontal protection also earned a solid 4 out of 5 stars. However, the Stinger's recall record requires scrutiny. Across its 2019-2023 model run, 16 recalls were issued. Critically, three of these campaigns included park-outside or do-not-drive advisories, indicating severe safety concerns. Any prospective owner must confirm that all open recalls have been addressed before purchase. Owner complaints total 94 for the covered years. This includes 4 alleged crashes and 3 alleged fires. While these are unverified allegations, the fire complaints are notable, especially when viewed against the backdrop of the serious recalls. No injuries or deaths were reported within this dataset. The Stinger delivers robust crash-test results, yet its history of serious recalls makes verification of recall status a mandatory step for buyers considering any used example.
WHAT REVIEWERS SAYReviewers generally regard the Kia Stinger as a compelling and somewhat underrated sport sedan that delivers genuine driving excitement and a premium-feeling interior at a price below its European rivals. Most praise its performance credentials and distinctive fastback styling, while noting that the brand's broader lineup improvements have made the Stinger's value proposition even sharper over its production run.
- The 2022 model year earns the segment's strongest safety result in our covered range, posting a 94 out of 100 NHTSA Safety Index in the Exceptional band - making it the standout year for crash-test confidence.
- Three of the Stinger's 16 recalls across 2019-2023 carry park-outside or do-not-drive advisories, the most severe level of recall urgency. Any used Stinger purchase must begin with a full recall check at NHTSA.gov using the vehicle's VIN.
- Frontal crash protection scores 4 out of 5 stars in the best-tested year, one star below the perfect scores earned in the side and rollover categories - buyers who prioritize head-on protection should weigh this gap.
- Owner complaints include 3 alleged fire-related incidents across the covered years. While these are unverified allegations, combined with the serious recall activity, they make it especially important to confirm all outstanding safety campaigns have been completed before taking ownership.
Most-recalled year on record: 2020 Kia Stinger with 6 recalls.