Kia Sportage (2017-2021) Price & Specs: A Detailed Technical Review

Under the hood, the Kia Sportage offers a choice of engines. The base model comes with a 2.4-liter inline-4 engine, producing 181 horsepower and 175 lb-ft of torque. For those seeking more power, there's an available 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine, which churns out an impressive 240 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth and responsive shifts. The Sportage is available in both front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations, catering to different driving preferences and conditions.

When it comes to fuel efficiency, the Kia Sportage holds its own. The 2.4-liter engine delivers an EPA-estimated 23 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway for the FWD model, while the AWD variant offers 22 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway. The turbocharged engine, on the other hand, provides slightly lower fuel economy figures, with 20 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway for the FWD model, and 19 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway for the AWD version.

Inside, the Kia Sportage boasts a well-designed and comfortable cabin. The materials used are of good quality, and the layout is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The seats are supportive and offer ample space for both front and rear passengers. The cargo area is also generous, with 30.7 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats, expanding to 60.1 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. This makes the Sportage a practical choice for families and individuals with active lifestyles.

In terms of technology, the Kia Sportage is well-equipped. The base model comes with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, featuring Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Higher trims offer an 8-inch touchscreen, a premium Harman Kardon audio system, and additional convenience features such as wireless phone charging and a panoramic sunroof. Safety is also a priority, with standard features including a rearview camera, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane departure warning. Higher trims add advanced safety technologies such as forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control.

On the road, the Kia Sportage delivers a comfortable and composed ride. The suspension is well-tuned to absorb road imperfections, providing a smooth driving experience. The steering is precise and responsive, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces. The turbocharged engine, in particular, offers brisk acceleration and ample power for highway merging and passing.

When considering the overall value for money, the Kia Sportage is hard to beat. It offers a competitive starting price, a long list of standard features, and a reputation for reliability. The maintenance costs are reasonable, and Kia's industry-leading 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty provides added peace of mind. For buyers seeking an affordable and economical compact SUV, the Kia Sportage is a compelling choice.