NHTSA // CRASH-TESTED
2021 Kia Stinger
Federal crash-test performance, recalls, and complaints, scored into one NHTSA Safety Index.
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.
Despite a strong crash-test showing, the 2021 Kia Stinger carries a park-outside or stop-driving recall, so read the recall section first. Its 5-star rollover rating stands out for families and child-seat buyers. It has 5 recalls on record, reflected in the score.
- families prioritizing rollover safety
- urban drivers exposed to side-impact risk
Reviewers 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.
NCAP // CRASH TESTCrash-test breakdown
Source: NHTSA NCAP, VehicleId 15139
Index breakdown
NCAP // CRASH IMAGESCrash-test images
Crash-test images are US federal government works (NHTSA / NCAP), public domain.
NHTSA // RECALLSRecall record
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE:TURBO/SUPERCHARGER:HOSES/PLUMBING24V169000
Risk: An oil leak in the presence of hot engine components can increase the risk of an engine compartment fire while driving.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the left turbocharger oil feed pipe and hose assembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 26, 2024. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC300.
Reported 2024-03-01
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP23V634000
Risk: A loss of drive power can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will update the engine control unit software, inspect, and replace the fuel pump as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 18, 2023. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC281.
Reported 2023-09-13
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:INSTRUMENT PANEL:FUEL GAUGE21V862000
Risk: An inaccurate fuel gauge may result in the vehicle unexpectedly running out of fuel and stalling, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will update the software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 10, 2021. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC219.
Reported 2021-11-05
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP20V560000
Risk: Insufficient fuel supply to the engine can result in a loss of drive power, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Kia will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the fuel pump and replace the jet nozzle housing assembly, if necessary, free of charge. The recall began October 29, 2020. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC198.
Reported 2020-09-16
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE20V518000
Risk: An engine compartment fire can increase the risk of injury or crash.
Remedy: Kia will notify owners, and dealers will install a new fuse kit in the electrical junction box, free of charge. Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures as a precaution until the recall repair is complete. The recall began November 30, 2020. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC196.
Reported 2020-08-27
NHTSA // COMPLAINTSOwner complaints
17 owner complaints on file. These are unverified allegations reported to NHTSA.