Pros

• Modern, serene, and technologically advanced interior design.
• Abundant storage space and plush interior
• The X-Pro package enhances the vehicle’s capability in harsh terrain.

Cons

• The acceleration from a regular engine is sluggish.
• Wasteful use of fuel

The Sportage is driven in what way? The Sportage fails to deliver daily. However, the lack of power is more of a problem than the slightly softer on-road handling felt in the X-Pro trim we tested. Over 9.5 seconds, our test Sportage reached 60 mph, which is incredibly slow and many seconds slower than competitors in its class. We recommend the Sportage Hybrid exclusively because no other powertrain options exist.

Most driving conditions are made more challenging than necessary by the engine. Passing moves require forethought because the transmission is always searching for the best gear to maximise the available power. Apart from that, the braking was prompt, and the handling was easy and precise. Changing the engine would make the ride much more pleasurable.

Is the Sportage a pleasant vehicle to ride in? The Sportage delivers on comfort promises. The chairs have limited adjustability, but they provide sufficient support and comfort no matter where you sit. Even if the material isn’t exceptionally soft, it does feel sturdy, and the front seats may be heated and cooled in higher-end models. The several available reclines will ensure the comfort of your rear-seat passengers.

Improvements were made to the Sportage’s suspension. Therefore, the Sportage can effectively absorb potholes and damaged pavement, although it can occasionally cause an uncomfortable amount of up-and-down bouncing on undulating roads. Kia also did a great job insulating the cabin from outside noise and preventing rattles and squeaks.

It’s very cool that the touch panel controls for the HVAC system double as media controls, although we can see how some people might not appreciate that. The system works well and maintains the desired cabin temperature despite the interface.

How’s the condition inside? The Sportage’s upscale and intuitive cabin is another selling point. Kia has improved the interior’s look and feel without sacrificing practicality. Although not everyone will appreciate the new touchscreen iconography, which is reminiscent of neon signs, Kia has kept many of the buttons that make its vehicles so convenient to use. The step-in height is more significant for the all-wheel-drive Sportage than the front-wheel-drive version. Although the door openings are fairly small and squared off, the vehicle can enter and exit quickly.

From the driver’s vantage point, the vehicle’s big windows and straightforward design provide excellent visibility. Furthermore, the Prestige trims have a superb surround-view camera system for those seeking even superior eyesight. There is sufficient space for passengers throughout the vehicle, except for the front headroom. Those under six feet in height should be comfortable in the front passenger seat, but we’re concerned about those who are taller.

What’s the state of the technology at the moment? Kia equips Sportage with numerous convenience technologies and driver assistance features. Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and other capabilities are standard throughout both rows, as are many USB-A and USB-C outlets. Our test vehicle had a wireless charging pad and a 12.3-inch touchscreen for both the instrument cluster and the infotainment system. The GPS system in the Sportage we tested was built in and easy to use, although it lacked real-time traffic information. In addition, the touchscreen controls are inoperable while the user is in motion.

The Sportage’s long list of standard driver aids includes adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, a 360-degree camera view, and parking sensors. We appreciate how well everything functions in practice. There were no false collision alarms, and the adaptive cruise kept safe distances without requiring frequent braking. Using only the key fob, Smart Park can steer the Sportage into or out of a parking spot. You can impress your friends with the trick.

Is there a problem with storage space? The Sportage is no exception to the rule that a contemporary small SUV worth its salt must include some sort of storage. The Sportage has a class-leading 74.1 cu. Ft. of cargo space with the second row folded down and 39.6 cu. Ft. behind the second row, making it one of the most roomy vehicles in its segment. The back seats collapse via a hatch, and the load area is spacious and level. There are LATCH connectors in the rear seats for installing car seats, and there’s enough room in the back for even the most oversized rear-facing chairs.

Additional storage can be found around the cottage. A wireless pad and a small covered compartment with USB ports are in the centre console just in front of the shifter, although there is enough room for more than a phone to be stored there. The cupholders have a second ingenious use: they can be retracted into the walls to make room for taller drinks or make an extra storage compartment for small items. Towing capacity for a well-equipped Sportage is 2,500 pounds. That’s the norm for compact SUVs and more than enough for a tender or lightweight trailer.

How well does it utilise gas? The EPA estimates the combined fuel economy of a Sportage X-Pro with all-terrain tires and all-wheel drive to be 25 mpg (23 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the interstate). Considering how many rivals have greater efficiency, this doesn’t stack up. The problem is made worse by the Sportage’s sluggish response time. Usually, one quality is lost so that another can flourish. On our 115-mile test route, which included a lot of highway travel, we averaged 26.4% highway fuel economy, so we expect the Kia to be as efficient as advertised. This number, however, should decrease if you consume gas as regularly as we do throughout town.

Is it wise to invest in a Sportage? The Sportage has a lot of features and looks like a decent deal, but its low price is no longer a significant selling point. In return, it offers a more upscale cabin design, superior construction quality, and features like ventilated seats than its rivals. The Sportage X-Pro Prestige we tested had practically all the conveniences one might want in a car of its size in the present day.

Kia’s basic warranty covers the vehicle for five years or 60,000 miles, while the powertrain covers ten years or 100,000 miles. That’s outstanding work, which can only be matched by Hyundai, the related firm. Purchasing a new Kia includes five years or 60,000 miles of free roadside assistance.

The 2018 Sportage is an aesthetic improvement over its predecessor, but its design may differ from everyone’s taste. It’s strong, assertive, and even a touch excessive. However, you may find that appealing! Although the general public won’t agree with us, we’re digging into Kia’s new approach to interior design.

The X-Pro trim can handle greater off-road activities, despite the fact that it looks a touch rough and is advertised as such. We spend so much time driving that it’s safe to assume the powertrain is the system’s weak point and the main cause of our negative impressions.

As of this writing, Kia has not publicly announced the 2024 Sportage. We’ll update our score, but based on last year’s Sportage, the EX offers the best balance of features, aesthetics, and cost. The additional cost of the Sportage EX is more than justified by its superior wheels and other enticing comfort and technological enhancements.

Models of the Kia Sportage

The Kia Sportage is a compact crossover utility vehicle. It comes in LX, EX, X-Line, SX, SX Prestige, X-Pro, and X-Pro Prestige guises. A 187-horsepower propels each 2.5-liter inline-four mated to an eight-speed automated transmission. Sportages typically come standard with front-wheel drive but offer all-wheel drive as an upgrade. The X-Line, X-Pro, and X-Pro Prestige all come standard with all-wheel drive. Two other options that have been thoroughly examined are the Sportage Hybrid and the Sportage Plug-in Hybrid.