An above-average crossover that will be noted for its tasteful interior - 2017 Kia Sportage Review
0Overview
The Kia Sportage is an above-average crossover that will be noted for its tasteful interior and noticed for its polarizing face. While it falls short of the segment’s elite, the Sportage lineup encompasses three competent models, including a sporty turbo version. A long list of premium features, such as adaptive headlights and high-tech safety assists, are pluses that balance its disappointing fuel economy and cramped cargo area.
What's New for 2017?
The Sportage is all new for 2017, and the change is most apparent in its odd front-end styling. Kia increased the Sportage’s size by stretching the wheelbase and overall length. The redesigned interior benefits from an improved layout and upgraded materials. Beneath the surface, the Sportage sports a stiffer structure, a pair of retuned engines, and suspension and steering enhancements. On the technology front, Kia’s third generation of UVO infotainment system is now available, as are a slew of active safety assists.
Pricing
Original MSRP:
LX: $24,095
EX: $26,595
SX: $33,595
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The Sportage lineup has two four-cylinder engines: The 2.4-liter makes 181 horsepower and 175 pound-feet of torque; the turbocharged 2.0-liter is exclusive to the SX trim and produces 240 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. Both rely on a capable six-speed automatic transmission, and they’re available in front- or all-wheel drive. Compact crossovers don’t get much quicker than the turbocharged Sportage. This rowdy mill packs plenty of passing power and can turn mundane milk runs into rip-rollicking rides. All Sportage models have above-average handling characteristics, though along with more power, the SX rolls on a firmer suspension that remains quiet and smooth at highway speeds. The chassis is buttoned down and stable, with a compliant ride and firm control of body motions. The lower-spec Sportage models have a softer ride that’s still surprisingly athletic.
Fuel Economy
EPA fuel-economy testing and reporting procedures have changed over time. For the latest numbers on current and older vehicles, visit the EPA’s website and select Find & Compare Cars.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
The Sportage cabin's styling is handsomely restrained; the dash and doors are covered with classy soft-touch materials, and piano-black trim pieces spiff up the cabin. All of the interior trim panels fit together evenly and—like the exterior—the Sportage’s interior seems as if it belongs in a more expensive vehicle. Even the base model is fairly well equipped, and higher trims add such amenities as heated and ventilated leather seats and dual-zone automatic climate control. Cargo space is cramped, and storage room for smaller items is lacking, but the Sportage is not the worst in its class.
Infotainment and Connectivity
The Sportage is available with Kia’s UVO3 infotainment system, which is attractive and functional. It’s not the best in its class, but it’s user-friendly and offers a host of the latest features. A 5.0-inch touchscreen is standard on base models, but the EX upgrades to a 7.0-inch unit that adds Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The top-dog SX has an even larger 8.0-inch interactive display, a Harman/Kardon surround sound system, and navigation. This is all optional in the EX with the Technology Package. While every base Sportage has one USB port in the front seat, the EX and SX add one for rear-seat passengers.
Safety Features and Crash Test Ratings
Overall Safety Rating (NHTSA)
View Crash Test Results
For more information about the Kia Sportage’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites.
Warranty
Some older vehicles are still eligible for coverage under a manufacturer's Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) program. For more information visit our guide to every manufacturer's CPO program.