Hyundai Kona Real Model Years & Safety Data

Hyundai Kona real model years: 2018-2026. Compare NHTSA complaints, recalls, safety ratings, and unsupported searched years.

About the Hyundai Kona

The Hyundai Kona has been tracked across 9 model years in the NHTSA database, accumulating a total of 684 consumer complaints and 10 safety recalls. Understanding the recall and complaint history of any vehicle is a critical step in the car-buying process, whether you are shopping for a used Hyundai Kona or already own one and want to stay informed about potential safety risks.

Best and Worst Years for the Hyundai Kona

Based on NHTSA data, the 2019 Hyundai Kona stands out as the model year with the most reported issues, logging 170 complaints and 1 recall. In contrast, the 2026 model year is the cleanest on record with just 4 complaints. The average across all tracked years is approximately 76 complaints per model year.

When evaluating a used Hyundai Kona, pay close attention to the model years with higher complaint counts listed in the table below. A higher number of complaints does not always indicate a dangerous vehicle, but it does suggest more frequent owner-reported problems that could affect reliability, repair costs, or resale value. Always cross-reference complaint data with recall information and, when possible, have a qualified mechanic perform a pre-purchase inspection.

How to Use This Data

The table below lists every Hyundai Kona model year in the NHTSA database along with complaint counts, recall counts, and safety ratings where available. Click on any year to view the full AI-generated safety report for that specific model, including detailed component breakdowns, known issues, and owner-reported problems. You can also compare the Hyundai Kona against competing models using our comparison tool, or explore our buying guide to determine which years are the best to purchase.

Hyundai Kona Decision Cockpit

The Hyundai Kona safety graph covers 9 real model years with 684 owner complaints, 10 recalls, 40 crash reports, 18 fire reports, and 24 service bulletin signals. Use this as the one-stop model view before drilling into a specific year.

Hyundai Kona Buy/Avoid Signals
PathVehicle YearComplaint Signal
Inspect carefully2019 Hyundai Kona170 complaints, 1 recalls
Inspect carefully2020 Hyundai Kona140 complaints, 2 recalls
Inspect carefully2021 Hyundai Kona102 complaints, 1 recalls
Compare as cleaner year2026 Hyundai Kona4 complaints, 2 recalls
Compare as cleaner year2025 Hyundai Kona20 complaints, 0 recalls
Compare as cleaner year2024 Hyundai Kona35 complaints, 3 recalls
Buying guide Decision cockpit hub Hyundai make hub Engine Unknown Or Other Electrical System Power Train Power Train,Engine
YearComplaintsRecallsRating
2026 4 2 ★★★★☆
2025 20 0 ★★★★☆
2024 35 3 ★★★★☆
2023 59 1 ★★★★★
2022 88 0 ★★★★★
2021 102 1 ★★★★★
2020 140 2 ★★★★★
2019 170 1 ★★★★★
2018 66 0

Frequently Asked Questions About the Hyundai Kona

Has the Hyundai Kona been recalled?

Yes, the Hyundai Kona has 10 recalls across 9 model years tracked in the NHTSA database. Select a specific model year below to see the full recall details.

How many complaints does the Hyundai Kona have?

The Hyundai Kona has accumulated 684 consumer complaints across 9 model years. The complaint count varies significantly by year — click any year in the table to see its specific issues.

What is the best year for the Hyundai Kona?

Based on NHTSA complaint data, the 2026 Hyundai Kona has the fewest reported issues with 4 complaints. The 2019 model year has the most with 170 complaints.

Is the Hyundai Kona safe?

Safety varies by model year. Review the NHTSA safety ratings, recall history, and complaint data for each Hyundai Kona model year in the table below. Vehicles with 4-5 star NHTSA ratings and low complaint counts generally indicate better safety records.

Where can I find Hyundai Kona recall information?

This page shows all 9 model years of the Hyundai Kona with recall counts and safety ratings. Click any year for the complete recall list including campaign numbers, affected components, and manufacturer remedies. You can also check by VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.