Overview & Reviews

The Kia Sportage has never been one for small evolutionary changes. Originally a cheap, poorly made penalty box followed by a solid, yet utterly forgettable bargain-price SUV, today's Sportage is now a stylish and well-rounded compact crossover SUV. In human terms, the Kia Sportage has gone from a baboon to a Neanderthal and then George Clooney in the span of 15 years.

While the second-generation Sportage might be a cost-effective but rather uninspired used car choice, the current version stands out from the crowd in more ways than just looks. Thanks to its excellent build quality, stronger performance and generous array of features, it's far and away the most appealing Sportage yet. This third-generation Kia model remains on the small side among compact crossovers, however, and as such is a better choice for singles or those with small families.

Current Kia Sportage
The Kia Sportage is available in LX, EX and SX trim levels. The LX and EX have a 2.4-liter making 182 horsepower, while the SX gets a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine making an impressive 260 hp. All Sportages come with a six-speed automatic. Front-wheel drive is standard, with all-wheel drive offered as an option.

Standard equipment for the Sportage LX includes alloy wheels, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, air-conditioning, a height-adjustable driver seat, cruise control, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel and a sound system with satellite radio, a CD player and an iPod/USB audio interface. Stepping up to the upper trims gets you bigger wheels, LED running lights, keyless entry, a telescoping wheel, dual-zone automatic climate control, heated and ventilated seats, leather upholstery, a rearview camera, a navigation system and Kia's Uvo voice activation system. Optional features include power-folding sideview mirrors, a panoramic sunroof, a navigation system, leather upholstery, ventilated front seats and keyless ignition and entry.

The Sportage's interior features attractive styling. And though there is quite a bit of hard plastic, it's well-textured and build quality is good. Passengers and driver alike benefit from well-contoured seats and adequate head- and legroom. The rear seat comfortably accommodates two average-size adults, and the seatback reclines but doesn't slide. In terms of cargo capacity, the Sportage comes up a bit short in cargo space, too, offering a maximum of 26.1 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 54.6 cubes with the 60/40-split-folding seats laid flat. Bigger competitors boast as many as 73 cubes.

On the road, the Kia Sportage lives up to its name with its sharp steering and athletic handling that make it more engaging than most other compact crossovers. The downside is that taut suspension tuning means a bit of a stiff-legged ride over rough pavement and washboard highways. Power from the four-cylinder engine is simply adequate, but at least the automatic transmission shifts smoothly and quickly. The SX's engine delivers a healthy dose of acceleration and is a worthy alternative to the V6s and four-cylinder turbos found in competing crossovers.

Used Kia Sportage Models
The current Kia Sportage debuted in the 2011 model year and represents the third generation in the model's history. Trim levels and powertrains mirrored the current version with a few exceptions. Up through 2013 there was a base model that came only with a six-speed manual gearbox. Tweaks for 2012 brought improved handling, additional sound insulation (for a quieter cabin) and the introduction of the Uvo voice activation system. Also, these Sportages lack the newest version's updates, which include refreshed styling, a more powerful (182 hp versus 176 hp) 2.4-liter engine, improved navigation and sound systems, rear-seat air vents and updated Uvo telematics services.

The previous, second-generation Kia Sportage was launched for 2005 and ran until 2010. Considerably different from the previous generation, this Sportage featured a new unibody platform shared with the Hyundai Tucson (just as the current model does). Compared to the current Sportage, though, this generation was a bit bigger in interior size but far plainer both in design and interior material quality. There were no significant changes made during this generation.

There were two trim levels: LX and EX. Both trims are equipped with a healthy list of standard amenities, such as alloy wheels, air-conditioning, full power accessories, tinted glass and a six-speaker CD stereo. Satellite radio as well as auxiliary and USB audio jacks were added for 2009.

The LX was powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine capable of 140 hp. It came standard with a five-speed manual transmission, and a four-speed automatic was available as an option. Most Sportages with this engine were front-wheel drive, though Kia did offer all-wheel drive on manual transmission-equipped models. As an upgrade for the Sportage LX and standard on the EX, Kia offered a 173-hp 2.7-liter V6. It came standard with the automatic transmission and could be had with front-drive or all-wheel drive.

This Sportage might not have looked too big from the outside, but the interior had plenty of headroom and legroom, both in the front and the back. The rear seats split and folded flat for a level cargo floor and a maximum of 67 cubic feet of storage. Fit and finish was OK and materials quality was on the cheap side. Safety was a strong suit for this Sportage, with strong crash scores and a full complement of airbags, stability control and four-wheel antilock disc brakes.

In reviews, our editors found that this Sportage did few things poorly, but it failed to stand out in a segment where its competitors did things exceptionally well. Its dull styling and drab cabin did it no favors, while both its engines were unimpressive from both a power and fuel economy standpoint.

The Kia Sportage started life in 1995 as a body-on-frame compact SUV. Though it was one of the first such vehicles of its kind, it was too small and underpowered to compete with the roomier, more carlike mini-utes that Honda, Subaru and Toyota rolled out shortly thereafter. The base Sportage came with a meager 94-hp, 2.0-liter SOHC four-cylinder. Rear-wheel drive and a five-speed manual transmission were standard. Kia also offered a part-time 4WD version of the base trim. The 4x4 Sportage came with a twincam 2.0-liter four-cylinder good for 139 hp. A better-equipped EX trim came standard with 4WD and the more powerful engine. A four-speed automatic transmission was an option on all 4WD models.

Kia eliminated the single-cam engine in 1997, leaving all trims equipped with the twincam engine, now rated for 130 hp. That same year, Kia began offering the four-speed automatic on 2WD models.

In 1998, Kia added a two-door convertible to the Sportage lineup. It was available with both drivetrains (2WD and 4WD). After that, there were no more significant changes to the Kia Sportage, only minor face-lifts and interior modifications. The final year of production was 2002. Buyers should generally avoid these early models, as they weren't able to match the levels of comfort, performance and fit and finish offered by competing models of the same time period.

User Reviews:

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  One fun CUV! - 2011 Kia Sportage
  By bstoecker - August 10 - 7:27 pm

  Having put on my first 3000 miles on my new Sportage SX, I am having no regrets yet for buying a KIA. I still get the "What? You bought a Kia?" and I just say "yes i did" and am proud of it so far. Kia has finally came to the game table while both Honda and Toyota are asleep at the wheel. When i found out Kia added a turbo to this sharp CUV, I had to go check it out. 3000 miles later and I have really enjoyed it. What fun is this CUV is kinda in disguise. With many not knowing what is under this hood, it is fun shocking those next to you when this turbo kicks in and away you go. Another great aspect is the gas mileage. On a weekend trip I recorded 30mpg on the highway. Avg so far is 25.

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  Fun to drive, Sportage SX 2.0 Turbpo - 2017 Kia Sportage
  By SportyOne - July 24 - 8:27 pm

  The Sportage has everything you need. Its fast, with unbelievable take off and passing power especially in sports mode. Its quiet, comfortable, stylish and has an excellent sounding harman kardon stereo system. And for a small SUV, it feels roomier than the Rav4 and much more fun to drive. Love the two tone canyon and beige interior. We tried the Rav4, CRV, Escape and Rogue before deciding on the Sportage. Not as fuel efficient as other Suvs and we are at the pumps often but then again it doesnt help that we always want to be driving it. We average about 28 imperial miles per gallon(from Canada)

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  Heels on Wheels! - 2017 Kia Sportage
  By Gigis mom - July 18 - 8:41 pm

  I just purchased my 2017Sportage EX in May 2016. I traded in my 2005 Nissan Murano AWD for it. I wanted something that was spacious enough for my daughter and her friends yet still stylish and AWD like my previous Murano. I looked at several models and based on research and my test drive, decided on the Sportage. I have NOT one regret yet! It is a 4 cylinder model so it doesnt have as much punch as my Murano but thats okay.. im not in a hurry.. My gas mileage (although low compared to other crossovers) is still better than my Murano. I love the design of the outside of the Sportage and the inside is just as nice. My only small complaint is regarding the USB. It doesnt seem to charge phones as rapidly as I would like and I dont think it is the actual cord. It worked better in the Murano, but this isnt a huge issue for me as long as i can get some charge.

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  So Far So Good... - 2006 Kia Sportage
  By czechers - July 15 - 7:43 pm

  I had an old Spectra and went in for a service appointment, and ended up leaving with a new Sportage. I was looking at other brands, but the features for the price are outstanding. The MPG is less than advertised however... I havent done much highway driving yet, I only have 750 miles on the clock and I am stuck at 17 MPG. (Advertised 19/25) I was worried that the horsepower was on the low side compared with competitors, however, it moves this SUV just fine. I also wish there were a 5 or 6 speed automatic. But, as I said, for the price of $21K I got a V6 auto, power everything, CD / MP3, Sunroof, Keyless with Alarm, Alloy wheels, upgraded interior, etc.

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  2005 Kia Sportage - 2005 Kia Sportage
  By Mark Dearborn - July 15 - 12:56 pm

  If you are looking for an affordable, spacious, fuel efficient and fun to drive SUV, the Sportage is the one. We were looking for more room yet not a SUV that would take up two parking spots. We got the 6 cylinder ( a must) completely loaded with all options (leather, 6 cd, amp, subwoofer, sunroof etc) except 4WD for less than 22K. It sits up high enough for the feel of a SUV yet drives like a car. The 100,000 mile limited warranty is a plus. My wife loves this vehicle as everyday transportation to and back from work.

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  Best Kia Ive Had So Far! - 2014 Kia Sportage
  By Leslie Ray - July 15 - 3:47 am

  Ive seen some other reviews here that are not particularly generous. Ive owned three Kias prior to my current (just acquired) 2014 Kia Sportage. The first two were 2006 and 2007 Kia Spectras (purchased new), both had very comfortable seats, drove well, the 2006 was totaled when I was hit head on (thankfully, the airbags deployed and I wasnt injured in the least). I had the 2007 for 4 years before I decided to purchase a larger vehicle to use for transporting event equipment for my small business. I purchased a 2011 Kia Sportage (new) and while it served most of my needs, I found the front bucket seats to be VERY uncomfortable compared to the Spectra seats. I sold my 2011 Kia Sportage recently and purchased a used 2014 Kia Sportage with only 12K miles on it. The previous owner traded it in citing complaints with the engine. Kia replaced the engine with new, and I picked up the car soon after. So far, I absolutely LOVE the 2014 Kia Sportage! The body went through something of a change since 2011...the front grill is much snazzier (beehive pattern, as opposed to the old straight lines on the 2011). The wheels are much better quality and have an improved look to them. The seats are a LOT more comfortable than the seats in the 2011 Sportage, although still not quite as comfortable as the seats in the Spectra, which was more of an economy car (go figure). The 2014 drives much more smoothly than the 2011; its quieter, and feels more solid (including the way the doors close--less of a "clang", more of a heavy "clunk". The transition between gears on the 2014 is smoother than the 2011. Bluetooth is MUCH improved in the 2014...the voice is soothing, not irritatingly loud and annoying like the Bluetooth voice in the 2011. Ive also noticed that it is much more accurate in terms of interpreting my commands. I like the upgraded buttons on the stereo console--they look sharp, not cheap. The 2014 I purchased has the same parking sensors that the 2011 did, but it also has the backup camera that comes on when you put the car in reverse. This is a feature I had wanted in the 2011, but they wanted another $2500 for it, so I opted not to get it at the time. The 2011 also came with mud flaps, but at the price of $300, I told them to take them off...I wasnt going to pay for them. The 2014 has the flaps, and I like the look as well as the functionality. Overall, Im very pleased with the 2014 Kia Sportage so far. However, if you previously had a higher quality SUV/Crossover, you will notice the difference and you may not be impressed. For me, the value one gets with the standard features on a Kia, as well as the safety rating and the warranty, make Kia an excellent buy, and I am a loyal Kia owner. (And, no one paid me to say that. Lol.) Update: Ive had my 2014 Kia Sportage a while now and Im still very pleased with it. The braking is much smoother than it was on the 2011 Sportage, and it still drives so much better than the 2011. I did have an issue with a sound that seemed to be emanting from the muffler since I last posted, it turned out that there was a break in a solder joint. Took it in to the dealership for service, and they took care of it right away, no problem. Im happy to say that the service department at the Kia dealership has been excellent so far (I started going to a dealership a little further from me). Overall, Im still quite pleased with my 2014 Sportage.

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  rip off - 2001 Kia Sportage
  By Tim - July 12 - 5:00 am

  Timing belt broke at 105,000 miles and Im being told that after the belt breaks while driving it ruins the engine. Nice to know after it breaks that when this happens it is self destruction. Basicly made to be a disposible vehicle.

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  So-so Sportage - 2000 Kia Sportage
  By kslater91 - July 10 - 10:00 am

  I have owned my Kia for 3 years its my first car. I have had to put A LOT of work into it. The original owner ran her hard. First some wires rusted and fell apart, a wire on my brakes got twisted, my rear axle rusted over and broke, (that was scary), one of my back doors wont open from the outside, I recently had a problem that is I go through gas way too fast and when I go to fill up it makes a really weird hissing sound! I had this part removed from the gas tank to prevent it from rusting so its not that. But when I get the money to get it fixed it will be perfectly fine. I love it!

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  Loving the new model! - 2011 Kia Sportage
  By Blair - July 10 - 10:00 am

  The 2011 Sportage has come far from its predecessors. I am a middle school administrator, and each morning, one of my students is dropped off by a parent driving one of the early Sportages. I look past that older one to my brand new one sitting in the parking lot, and I cant believe they wear the same label. I drove an 06 for three years and only got rid of it because my lease was up. I bought a high mileage accord because I didnt want a payment, but after a year and a half, I decided it was time for something new. I checked out the Soul but decided it was too small. I saw the new designs for the Sportage last spring and decided it was worth the wait.

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  Trouble Already! - 2014 Kia Sportage
  By Brian - July 3 - 3:55 am

  This SUV is a rough riding uncomfortable car, but that is only after we can get it started. With less than 14,000 miles on it we have had it towed back to the dealer twice because it left us flat without starting. So far not very reliable. I also do not like getting in or out of the car. I hit my head a lot. Only being 5.7" tall, this not something Im a custome to. In addition the car is loud and forget about opening windows or sun roof. The strangest whistles, howls, and hums we ever heard. So far easily, without question, the worst new car we ever owned. Compared to the comfort and reliability of the 96 VW Jetta, 04 Saturn Vue, and 03 Dodge Van which we bought all new, and that all went 100,000 miles each without need for a tow truck. I would buy each one of those vehicles again but I have no interest in even getting back into our 2014 Kia Sportage ever again, let alone ever buying it again. Sorry Kia, looks arent everything. You gotta do better than this.