2023 Kia Sportage Hybrid
Not enough comparison years on file yet for a fair verdict.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2023 | 96 |
| 2024 | 18 |
| 2025 | 13 |
| 2026 | 5 |
| 2027 | 1 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Percentages can add to more than 100% -- a complaint can name more than one system.
36% of complaints: electrical system — 35 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing autonomous/self driving.
CRASH INJURYShow complaint excerpts
On XXX and XXX, while driving on the highway, the vehicle suffered a sudden, complete loss of motive power.
NHTSA ODI report, 20260716
Also filed under ENGINE and POWER TRAIN
27% of complaints: engine — 26 distinct reports on file.
Show complaint excerpts
The contact owns a 2023 Kia Sportage. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was smoke coming from the engine compartment and the vehicle stalled. The check engine and battery warning lights were illuminated.
NHTSA ODI report, 20260731
The contact owns a 2023 Kia Sportage. The contact stated that while driving 75 MPH, the engine seized. The hybrid engine message was displayed. The vehicle was driven to the shoulder of the road and parked.
NHTSA ODI report, 20260724
Also filed under FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
24% of complaints: vehicle speed control — 23 distinct reports on file.
19% of complaints: power train — 18 distinct reports on file.
CRASH13% of complaints: service brakes — 12 distinct reports on file.
CRASHShow complaint excerpts
Driving 5 hours away. Got to my destination parked and went to check in . Came back to my car and drove to where my room was going to be. I went to try to stop and the brakes were spongy and seems like it too forever to finally stop.
NHTSA ODI report, 20240112
Also filed under FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
The vehicle flashed and alarmed a brake system warning while traveling on a freeway. Braking was soft. Took a longer than usual amount of time to stop the vehicle at that point.
NHTSA ODI report, 20220902
SAFETY TIMELINE
Kia America, Inc.
Remedy: Dealers will update the instrument cluster software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 26, 2023. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC270.
Campaign 23V298000 — check if this car was fixed
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2023 Kia Sportage Hybrid — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for electrical system issues (35 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for engine issues (26 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for vehicle speed control issues (23 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 23V298000 (electrical system) has been completed.
FAQ
Is the 2023 Kia Sportage Hybrid reliable?
There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
What are the most common problems with the 2023 Kia Sportage Hybrid?
The most-reported component is electrical system, accounting for 36% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2023 Kia Sportage Hybrid have?
1 recall on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-09-15 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.