Kia's bestselling vehicle, the Sportage, is a compact crossover that seats 5 passengers and comes only as a 4-door wagon. Front- and all-wheel drive models are offered with conventional and hybrid powertrains. The Sportage was last redesigned in 2023 and carries over into 2024 with minimal changes. Mechanically similar to the Hyundai Tucson, Sportage competitors include the Chevrolet Equinox, Ford Escape, Honda CR-V, Mazda CX-50, Nissan Rogue, Subaru Forester, Toyota RAV4 and Volkswagen Tiguan.
Gas-only trim levels include LX, EX, X-Line, SX and X-Pro. Power for those models comes from a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine that makes 187 horsepower and 178 lb ft of torque. An 8-speed automatic is the sole transmission. Hybrid models are offered in LX, EX and SX trim and get a turbocharged 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor that makes a combined 177 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. The X-Line trim also offers a plug-in hybrid powertrain that offers the same engine as the hybrid but adds an extra electric motor to provide a total output of 261 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. The plug-in hybrid has an all-electric range of up to 34 miles when the battery is fully charged. Both hybrids pair to a 6-speed automatic. Towing capacity is 2,500 pounds.
Prices start as low as $28,000 for the LX gas-only model and climb to more than $45,000 on the plug-in X-Line Prestige. However, it should be noted that a fully-equipped SX-Prestige gas-only model lists for about $35,000. Standard safety features include driver-attention warning, forward-collision warning with automatic braking, lane-departure warning, lake-keeping assist and rear parking sensors. Also included across the board is a digital instrument cluster and Apple Car Play and Android Auto integration.
The 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine in the gas-only Sportage is adequate for basic needs, but certainly could be more powerful. Acceleration is leisurely and passing response is tepid. Still, the engine mates well to the automatic transmission and proves to be efficient, if nothing else. Those wanting a bit more power can opt for the Sportage hybrid. That engine provides almost an additional 20 lb ft of torque and that makes all the difference. Not only around town, but in passing situations. In addition the engine seems smoother and power transitions from gas to electric are seamless.
Still not satisfied? Then pony up for the plug-in hybrid. It adds an extra electric motor and provides great acceleration and passing punch. Yes, it's more expensive and you have to plug in to get the full fuel-economy boost. Still, it makes great power and offers exceptional fuel efficiency.
Sportage's all-wheel drive system does not have a low range and is not intended for extreme off-road use. However, all-wheel-drive models do have an impressive 8.3 inches of ground clearance.
Sportage proves to be one of the more frugal entries in the class. Even the base engine provides an EPA rated 25 MPG city and 33 MPG highway. The hybrid nets an even 38/38 MPG and the plug-in gets an EPA MPGe rating of a whopping 84. All engines run fine on regular-grade gasoline. Gas models have about 400 miles highway range and the hybrid can go almost 600 miles between fill-ups.
Dynamically, Sportage is one of the more nimble compact crossovers. Not in the same class as the Mazda CX-5, but sporty nonetheless. The numb and artificially boosted steering is its weakest point. It's hard to track true on the highway and the wheel goes absolutely gooey in high speed maneuvers. Brakes, regardless of powertrain, have good stopping power and an easy-to-modulate pedal. The firm suspension does a good job of maintaining ride quality over bumpy roads.
From a comfort standpoint, Sportage provide a comfortable yet firm ride. You feel bumps for sure, but secondary motions are nicely quelled. The ride grows firmer as you climb the trim ladder, but never is it harsh or annoying.
Interior noise levels vary. Gas-only models have a fair amount of engine noise, but hybrids emit a more-refined growl in acceleration. Wind and road noise are noticeably better than the class norm.
With the redesign in 2023, Kia designers gave Sportage a tasteful and user-friendly interior. Compared to many competitors, Sportage levels up with top-notch materials and impressive fit and finish. The digital instrument cluster and accompanying infotainment screen give Sportage a leg up on most competitors. That being said, like other Kia models, toggling between audio and HVAC controls is a trend that has been roundly criticized.
The front seats prove a bit firm, but are nicely supportive. Head and leg room up front are exceptional. Passenger space in the second row is quite good as well, but the seat cushions are flat and offer little long-trip support. Entry/exit is a snap thanks to a just right step-in height and large door openings. Owing to its big windows, outward visibility is great and top trims include an excellent surround-view camera system.
Technology abounds in the Sportage. Standard features include Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and a ample of USB-A and -C ports in both rows. Also available is wireless charging pad as well as 12.3-inch displays for both the instrument cluster and infotainment system. The Sportage is also available with lots of driver aids, including adaptive cruise control, blind-spot warning, a surround-view monitor and parking assist. The adaptive cruise holds good gaps but ping-pongs from side to side, requiring constant steering inputs. Smart Park can pull the Sportage out or into a parking spot using just the key fob.
Interior storage is a Sportage hallmark. All in there is more than 74 cubic feet or cargo space behind the front row. Even with the rear seats in use, Sportage offers nearly 40 cubic feet. Interior storage is exceptional as well with a large center bin and ample glove box and map pockets.
Bottom Line -- Sportage is one of the best compact crossovers your money can buy. It meets nearly every need and does it all at a reasonable price. While the base engine might disappoint, stepping up to the hybrid won't break the bank and comes with a significant fuel economy boost. As when shopping for just about any vehicle in the class, don't expect big dealer discounts.
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