Kia Sportage: Price, Specs, Features and Pros and Cons
The Kia Sportage is a compact SUV with unusually strong passenger room and cargo space for its class. The current 2027 gasoline model combines a 187-horsepower engine, an eight-speed automatic transmission, available all-wheel drive, and a broad trim range that runs from basic family transport to the more rugged X-Pro.
It is a good fit for small families, for commuters, and buyers who need a practical SUV without moving to a larger three-row model. Its biggest strengths are space, comfort, safety equipment, and warranty coverage. Its main weakness is performance: the standard engine is adequate, but not quick.
This page covers the gasoline Kia Sportage. The Sportage Hybrid and Sportage Plug-in Hybrid use different powertrains, pricing, and fuel-economy ratings.
WheelPedia Rating: 8.1/10
The Kia Sportage earns an 8.1/10 WheelPedia Rating for its roomy cabin, large cargo area, strong current-generation safety record, useful technology, and long warranty. It loses points for modest acceleration and fuel economy that trails hybrid compact SUVs.
| Rating Category | Score | Weight |
| Safety | 8.8/10 | 20% |
| Reliability and Ownership | 8.0/10 | 15% |
| Performance and Driving | 7.0/10 | 15% |
| Comfort and Practicality | 9.0/10 | 15% |
| Efficiency | 7.2/10 | 15% |
| Features and Technology | 8.5/10 | 10% |
| Price and Value | 8.2/10 | 10% |
| Overall WheelPedia Rating | 8.1/10 | — |
See how WheelPedia rates cars for the full scoring method.
Key Highlights
- Starts from $28,990 MSRP in the US, before destination, taxes, registration, and dealer charges.
- Uses a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 187 horsepower.
- Eight-speed automatic transmission with front-wheel drive or available all-wheel drive.
- Returns up to an EPA-estimated 28 mpg combined in front-wheel-drive form.
- Offers 39.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and up to 74.1 cubic feet with them folded.
- Seats five and has generous rear-seat legroom for the compact-SUV class.
- Can tow up to 2,500 pounds when properly equipped with trailer brakes.
- X-Pro AWD adds all-terrain tires and equipment for light off-pavement use.
- Kia’s 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty applies to original owners.
- Best for buyers who value space, comfort, and daily practicality more than quick acceleration.
Quick Specifications
| Specification | Kia Sportage |
| Vehicle type | Compact SUV |
| Seating capacity | 5 |
| Engine | 2.5L four-cylinder |
| Output | 187 hp / 178 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | FWD standard; AWD available or standard depending on trim |
| Best fuel economy | Up to 25 city / 33 highway / 28 combined mpg |
| Maximum towing capacity | 2,500 lbs with trailer brakes |
| Cargo space behind rear seats | 39.6 cu. ft. |
| Maximum cargo space | 74.1 cu. ft. |
| Length | 184.4 in. |
| Width | 73.4 in. |
| Height | 65.4 in. |
| Wheelbase | 108.5 in. |
Expert tip:
The Sportage EX FWD is the best all-round choice for most buyers. It costs the same as the base LX AWD but adds more comfort and convenience equipment. Choose AWD only if you regularly drive in snow, on unpaved roads, or in poor weather.
About the Kia Sportage
The Sportage is one of the more practical compact SUVs because it offers family-friendly interior space without feeling difficult to park or drive in town. Its rear seat is particularly useful for adults, child seats, and longer trips, while its cargo area is large enough for strollers, luggage, sports gear, and regular home errands.
The gasoline Sportage is the simple choice within the lineup. It uses a naturally aspirated engine and conventional automatic transmission, which may appeal to buyers who do not want a hybrid system or charging requirements.
The trade-off is performance and fuel use. The standard engine is not underpowered for ordinary driving, but it can feel slow when fully loaded or during quick highway passing. Buyers who prioritize stronger acceleration and lower fuel costs should also compare the Sportage Hybrid.
Price and Trims
The following prices are 2027 US base MSRPs, excluding Kia’s $1,495 destination charge. Options, packages, dealer accessories, taxes, registration, and local pricing will change the final amount.
| Trim | Starting MSRP | Drivetrain | Key Reason to Choose |
| LX FWD | $28,990 | FWD | Lowest Sportage purchase price |
| LX AWD | $30,790 | AWD | Lowest-cost AWD option |
| EX FWD | $30,790 | FWD | Best everyday balance of value and equipment |
| EX AWD | $32,590 | AWD | Practical, better-equipped AWD choice |
| SX FWD | $34,590 | FWD | More technology and comfort features |
| X-Line AWD | $34,790 | AWD | Rugged styling, panoramic sunroof, and power liftgate |
| SX-Prestige FWD | $36,590 | FWD | Premium features without AWD |
| SX-Prestige AWD | $38,390 | AWD | Best-equipped road-focused Sportage |
| X-Pro AWD | $39,890 | AWD | All-terrain tires and more outdoors-oriented equipment |
The EX is the sensible choice for most households. It avoids the stripped-back feel of an entry-level SUV while staying well below the top trims.
The X-Line is mainly a styling and equipment upgrade. The X-Pro is the better fit for buyers who will actually use its all-terrain tires and extra all-weather equipment.
Engine, Performance, and Driving Experience
Every gasoline Sportage uses a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 187 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque. It works with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
Front-wheel drive is standard on LX, EX, SX, and SX-Prestige models. All-wheel drive is optional on LX, EX, and SX-Prestige trims and standard on X-Line and X-Pro versions.
The engine is smooth enough for commuting and errands, while the conventional automatic transmission feels more natural than the continuously variable transmissions used by some competitors. However, the Sportage is not especially quick, particularly when carrying passengers, cargo, or both.
Ride quality is comfortable and the cabin is well suited to longer drives. Steering is predictable rather than sporty, which matches the Sportage’s family-focused role. The X-Pro adds useful traction equipment, but it remains a compact crossover rather than a dedicated off-road SUV.
0–60 MPH Performance
Kia does not publish an official 0–60 mph time for the Sportage.
Independent testing of an all-wheel-drive Sportage X-Pro recorded a 0–60 mph time of about 9.3 seconds. That is slow by current compact-SUV standards, but it does not make the Sportage difficult to live with in normal driving.
The Sportage is best for buyers who value comfort and utility over acceleration. If quick highway merging and passing are priorities, the Sportage Hybrid is the stronger version to consider.
Fuel Economy
| Model | EPA-Estimated City / Highway / Combined Fuel Economy |
| Sportage FWD | 25 / 33 / 28 mpg |
| Sportage AWD | 24 / 30 / 26 mpg |
| Sportage X-Pro AWD | 23 / 26 / 24 mpg |
The front-wheel-drive Sportage is the most efficient gasoline version. AWD adds useful traction but reduces fuel economy, while the X-Pro’s all-terrain tires and more rugged setup reduce it further.
The gasoline Sportage is reasonable for its size, but hybrid alternatives will be cheaper to fuel for drivers with long commutes or frequent city traffic.
Interior, Comfort, and Technology
The Sportage’s interior is one of its strongest selling points. It has a spacious second row, comfortable front seats, and a clean dashboard layout that is easy to use every day.
Standard and available features include:
- 12.3-inch touchscreen display
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Digital instrument display on selected trims
- USB-C charging ports
- Rearview monitor
- Available wireless phone charging
- Available dual-zone automatic climate control
- Available heated and ventilated front seats
- Available heated rear seats
- Available panoramic sunroof
- Available Harman Kardon premium audio system
- Available power liftgate
- Available surround-view monitor
The LX covers the basics, while EX and higher trims add the comfort and convenience features most buyers will appreciate. Upper trims can feel close to entry-level luxury SUVs in equipment, though the price rises quickly.
Dimensions, Cargo, and Practicality
| Dimension | Measurement |
| Length | 184.4 in. |
| Width | 73.4 in. |
| Height | 65.4 in. |
| Wheelbase | 108.5 in. |
| Front legroom | 41.4 in. |
| Rear legroom | 41.3 in. |
| Cargo space behind rear seats | 39.6 cu. ft. |
| Maximum cargo space | 74.1 cu. ft. |
| Seating | 5 passengers |
The Sportage provides more room than many buyers expect from a compact SUV. Rear-seat passengers have enough legroom for longer drives, and the cargo area is large enough for family use without immediately needing a midsize SUV.
The 60/40-split rear seat adds flexibility for longer items. Buyers who need a third row should look at a larger vehicle such as the Kia Sorento instead.
Exterior Design
The Sportage has a distinctive, angular design that separates it from more conservative compact SUVs. The front end, lighting design, and high beltline give it a more substantial appearance than its footprint suggests.
- LX and EX trims have the cleanest, most straightforward design.
- SX and SX-Prestige focus more on comfort, technology, and upscale details.
- X-Line adds darker trim and a more rugged look.
- X-Pro adds all-terrain tires and off-pavement-focused details.
The X-Line suits buyers who prefer the appearance of an adventure-oriented SUV. The X-Pro is the version to choose if you also need its tire and traction advantages.
Safety Features and Ratings
Standard and available safety features vary by trim and package. Available systems include:
- Auto Emergency Braking
- Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist
- Pedestrian and cyclist detection
- Lane Keeping Assist
- Lane Following Assist
- Driver Attention Warning
- Rearview monitor
- Rear parking sensors
- Available Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist
- Available Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist
- Available Smart Cruise Control
- Available Highway Driving Assist
- Available surround-view monitor
The current-generation Sportage has a strong recent IIHS record. The 2026 Kia Sportage, when built after May 2025, earned an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award, with Good ratings in the updated moderate-overlap front, updated side-impact, and small-overlap front tests. See the full IIHS Sportage results for test details and eligibility.
NHTSA had not published a separate 2027 Sportage safety rating at the time of writing. Buyers should check the latest agency information before purchase.
Reliability, Warranty, and Ownership
The gasoline Sportage has a straightforward powertrain and a practical ownership case. Its naturally aspirated engine, conventional automatic transmission, and widespread Kia dealer network should appeal to buyers who want a conventional compact SUV.
Long-term ownership still depends on following the maintenance schedule, using the correct fluids, and addressing recalls promptly. Check the VIN for open recalls before buying a new or used vehicle.
| Coverage | Length |
| Basic limited warranty | 5 years / 60,000 miles |
| Powertrain limited warranty for original owners | 10 years / 100,000 miles |
| Powertrain coverage for later owners | Usually 5 years / 60,000 miles |
| Anti-perforation warranty | 5 years / 100,000 miles |
| Roadside assistance | 5 years / 60,000 miles |
The original-owner powertrain warranty is a meaningful advantage, but later used-car owners should confirm the remaining coverage by VIN number.
Pros and Cons
What We Like
- Excellent rear-seat space for a compact SUV
- Large cargo area
- Comfortable ride and easy daily driving manners
- Broad trim range and AWD availability
- Strong recent IIHS safety record
- Useful standard and available technology
- X-Pro offers more all-weather capability
- Long original-owner powertrain warranty
What We Don’t Like
- Slow acceleration from the standard engine
- Fuel economy trails hybrid compact SUVs
- X-Pro is the least efficient model
- Top trims approach the cost of larger SUVs
- X-Line is more about appearance than off-road ability
- No third-row seating
- Advanced safety and parking features vary by trim
Competitors
The Kia Sportage should be compared with other compact SUVs based on what matters most to you.
- The Toyota RAV4 is worth considering for buyers who prioritize a strong resale reputation and hybrid availability.
- The Hyundai Tucson is a close alternative with similar space and powertrain choices.
- The Honda CR-V is a strong family-focused option with a comfortable interior and available hybrid power.
- The Mazda CX-5 suits drivers who place more value on handling and interior materials.
- The Subaru Forester is a good alternative for buyers who want standard AWD and strong visibility.
- The Kia Seltos is the more affordable Kia choice for buyers who need less space.
- The Kia Niro is the better Kia option for drivers who prioritize fuel economy over cargo capacity and AWD.
Related Content
If you are choosing between a smaller SUV and the Sportage, compare it with the Kia Seltos.
Buyers who expect high annual mileage should also consider the Kia Niro. Before financing, read how car financing works and consider arranging car loan preapproval before visiting a dealer.
Should You Buy the Kia Sportage?
Buy the Kia Sportage if you want a compact SUV with a roomy back seat, one of the larger cargo areas in its class, available AWD, and a long warranty. It is particularly well suited to small families and drivers who often carry passengers or gear.
Choose the EX FWD if you want the best balance of price, features, and efficiency. Choose the EX AWD if winter traction is a regular need. The X-Pro AWD is worthwhile only if you will benefit from its tires and rough-road equipment.
Skip the gasoline Sportage if strong acceleration or hybrid-level fuel economy is a priority. In that case, compare the Sportage Hybrid or other electrified compact SUVs before deciding.
FAQs
How much does the Kia Sportage cost?
The 2027 Kia Sportage starts from $28,990 MSRP in the US, before Kia’s destination charge, taxes, registration, options, and dealer fees.
Does the Kia Sportage have all-wheel drive?
Yes. AWD is available on LX, EX, and SX-Prestige trims and standard on X-Line and X-Pro models.
Is the Kia Sportage good on gas?
The front-wheel-drive Sportage returns up to an EPA-estimated 28 mpg combined. AWD models are rated at up to 26 mpg combined, while the X-Pro returns up to 24 mpg combined.
Is the Kia Sportage fast?
No. The 187-hp engine is adequate for normal driving but not quick. Independent testing recorded about 9.3 seconds from 0–60 mph for the Sportage X-Pro AWD.
How much cargo space does the Kia Sportage have?
The Sportage has 39.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and up to 74.1 cubic feet with them folded.
Can the Kia Sportage tow?
Yes. When properly equipped with trailer brakes, the gasoline Sportage can tow up to 2,500 pounds. Without trailer brakes, the maximum rating is 1,653 pounds.
Does the Kia Sportage have a third row?
No. The Sportage has two rows and seats up to five passengers.
Is the Kia Sportage safe?
The current-generation Sportage has a strong safety record. The 2026 model earned an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award when built after May 2025. Buyers should still check the latest ratings and the equipment fitted to their selected trim.
Does the Kia Sportage have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?
Yes. The current Sportage supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
What is the difference between the Sportage X-Line and X-Pro?
The X-Line mainly adds a more rugged appearance and extra equipment. The X-Pro adds more functional rough-road features, including all-terrain tires, and is the better choice for regular use on unpaved roads.
How long is the Kia Sportage warranty?
The basic warranty lasts 5 years or 60,000 miles. Original owners receive a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty.
Final Verdict
The Kia Sportage is one of the most practical gasoline compact SUVs for buyers who value space, comfort, and family-friendly usability. Its rear seat and cargo area are genuine strengths, not just brochure numbers, and the current-generation safety record adds to its appeal.
The standard engine is its main limitation. It handles normal daily driving well enough, but buyers who want quicker response or lower fuel costs should look at the hybrid before choosing the gasoline model.
For most shoppers, the Sportage EX FWD is the right place to start. It offers the space and comfort that make the Sportage appealing without paying top-trim money. Choose AWD when your climate or road conditions justify it, and choose the X-Pro only if you will use its added capability.
Prices, specifications, fuel-economy estimates, safety ratings, features, and availability can change by model year, trim, and market.