This page covers 3 recalls, 42 owner complaints, NHTSA crash-test ratings and EPA fuel economy for the 2021 Kia Sportage.
21–26 mpg combined
9–11.2 L/100km
Small Sport Utility Vehicle 2WD
Fuel economy data from fueleconomy.gov (EPA / U.S. Dept. of Energy). Annual cost based on 15,000 mi/yr at 55% city driving and current fuel prices. MPG is U.S. gallons; L/100km converted. Ranges reflect the 4 tested variants for this model year.
5/5 Overall
NHTSA 5-Star Safety Rating
Engine complaints dominate the 2021 Sportage owner reports, with excessive oil consumption being the most frequently described issue. Owners report needing to add oil regularly between changes, sometimes several quarts, to keep the engine within the normal operating range, often without any visible leaks. Several owners describe the problem progressing to more serious outcomes, including complete engine failure while driving at highway speeds, leaving the vehicle undrivable. A handful of reports describe the engine failing on surface roads as well, with some owners also noting the check engine light coming on, a sudden loss of acceleration, and power steering becoming heavy during the same event. A smaller cluster of complaints falls under engine cooling, though those reports don't show a single clear recurring symptom pattern. The oil consumption thread runs through most of the engine complaints and appears to be the central issue owners are tracking on this model year.
42
Total Complaints
3
Crash-Related
7
Fire-Related
2
With Injuries
By System
The 2021 Kia Sportage has 3 recalls, the most serious being two separate fire risks: a short circuit in the anti-lock brake control unit that can ignite a fire in the engine compartment, and a tow hitch wiring harness that can also catch fire whether the vehicle is parked or moving.
The tow hitch fire risk applies only to vehicles equipped with a tow hitch harness, either installed at the factory or added as an accessory through a Kia dealership. Both fire-related recalls carry the same severity and represent the primary safety concerns for this vehicle. The third recall is a compliance matter affecting Canadian-market vehicles only: the owner's manual omits information about how to contact Transport Canada to report a safety concern, which is required under regulations that took effect in September 2020. This omission has no effect on how the vehicle operates or performs.
At a glance
What can fail
Debris and moisture can build up on the tow hitch harness electrical module, causing a short circuit that may start a fire.
What the fix does
Dealers will inspect the tow hitch harness and replace the fuse or module as needed, at no cost.
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Driver Assistance
Ratings from NHTSA's New Car Assessment Program (NCAP). Based on 2 tested variants; worst-case ratings shown.
Complaints are owner-reported and reflect individual experiences, not confirmed defects. They are distinct from recalls. Data sourced from the national vehicle safety complaint database. See trending complaints →
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The owner's manual lacks required contact information for reporting safety concerns to Transport Canada, as mandated by Canadian regulations since September 1, 2020.
What the fix does
Kia updated the owner's manual for new vehicles. Corrected manuals are available on Kia Canada's website.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
An electrical circuit in the Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit may short-circuit, potentially causing a fire in the engine compartment.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace certain fuses in the electrical junction box. Vehicles with electronic parking brake will also receive a HECU software update.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
