In-car Electronics
Infotainment system (audio, GPS, phone), rear entertainment system, backup or other camera/sensors, head-up display.
The redesigned Sportage is one of the roomiest small SUVs, and the mainstream EX trim we tested packs lots of desirable features that buyers are sure to appreciate, such as dual-zone automatic climate control, a power driver’s seat with lumbar adjustment, heated front seats, and automatic high beams. But its tepid standard engine makes it a bit boring to drive, and the Sportage is burdened by some annoying controls. The hybrid EX version we also tested, on the other hand, is quicker, quieter, has a smoother ride, and managed 36 mpg overall—an 11-mpg gain over the gas-only model. All of those positives combine to make the hybrid the slam-dunk Sportage choice.
The Sportage’s standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder produces a respectable 187 horsepower. But after an annoyingly-abrupt first burst off the line, it feels lackluster—okay, downright slow—after that. It’s one of the few vehicles today that needs 10 seconds to run from 0 to 60 mph. The eight-speed automatic transmission also isn’t the smoothest shifter, a trait that becomes quite noticeable because it needs to downshift a lot on the highway just to keep up with surrounding traffic.
The Reliability score is based on our latest subscriber survey of 2023 Kia Sportage owners. The owner comments describe problems respondents experienced with this vehicle.
Infotainment system (audio, GPS, phone), rear entertainment system, backup or other camera/sensors, head-up display.
Gear selector and linkage, transmission computer, transmission sensor or solenoid, clutch adjustment, rough shifting, slipping transmission, leaks.
Alternator, starter, hybrid battery replacement, hybrid battery related systems, regular battery, battery cables, engine harness, coil, ignition switch, electronic ignition, spark plugs and wires failure, auto stop/start.
Sensors (O₂, or oxygen, sensor), emission-control devices (includes EGR), fuel-injection system, fuel gauge/sender, fuel pump, problems filling up the tank.
AC compressor, blower (fan) motor, condenser, evaporator, heater system, automatic climate system, electrical failure, refrigerant leakage.
Accessory belts and pulleys, engine computer, engine mounts, engine knock or ping, fuel leaks, oil leaks.
Cruise control, clock, warning lights, body control module, keyless entry, wiper motor or washer, tire pressure monitor, interior or exterior lights, horn, gauges, 12V power plug, USB ports, alarm or security system, remote engine start, heated or cooled seats, heated steering wheel, headlights, automatic headlights, automatic wipers, wireless charging pad.
Engine rebuild or replacement, cylinder head, head gasket, turbocharger or supercharger, timing chain or belt.
Paint (fading, chalking, peeling, or cracking), loose interior or exterior trim or moldings, rust.
Driveshaft or axle, CV joint, differential, transfer case, four-wheel-drive/all-wheel-drive components, driveline vibration, electrical failure, traction control, electronic stability control.
Transmission rebuild or replacement, torque converter, premature clutch replacement.
Muffler, pipes, catalytic converter, exhaust manifold, heat shields, leaks.
Squeaks, rattles, wind noises, seals and/or weather stripping, air and water leaks.
Premature pad/rotor wear, pulsation or vibration, antilock system, parking brake, master cylinder, calipers, squeaking, brake failure, regenerative braking.
Radiator, cooling fan, water pump, thermostat, antifreeze leaks, overheating.
Shocks or struts, ball joints, tie rods, wheel bearings, alignment, steering linkage (includes rack and pinion), power steering (pumps and hoses, leaks), wheel balance, springs or torsion bars, bushings, electronic or air suspension.
Windows, locks and latches, doors or sliding doors, tailgate, trunk or hatch, mirrors, seat controls (power or manual), seat belts, sunroof, convertible top, glass defect.