Kia Sportage Review 2024

Kia Sportage At A Glance

5/5
Honest John Overall Rating
The Kia Sportage continues to represent excellent value for money thanks to its generous kit levels. It does everything a family SUV needs to do with its practical interior, impressive list of standard safety features and a comprehensive line-up of engines that won't cost a lot to run.

+Extremely comprehensive engine line-up including petrol, diesel and hybrid power. Impressive cabin with sharp infotainment. Seven-year warranty.

-Hybrid models are surprisingly noisy. Top-spec models are difficult to justify. Has a face only a mother could love.

New prices start from £27,160, brokers can source from £25,282
On average it achieves 0% of the official MPG figure

Remember when the last-generation Kia Sportage looked pretty outlandish? It still sold by the bucketload, we soon started to see them everywhere and now, if anything, it looks a bit bland. Well, there’s no danger of the new Kia Sportage blending in. It’s even bolder in design than the new Hyundai Tucson – which is saying something – while SUV competitors like the Nissan Qashqai, Skoda Karoq and Peugeot 3008 aren’t going to turn heads like the new Sportage. Just how good the rest of the car is we'll explore in our Kia Sportage review. 

You can decide for yourself if you like how the new Kia Sportage looks but we’d suggest it’s worth remaining open-minded until you’ve sat in the cabin. In there, you get a fancy dual-screen infotainment system (on mid-spec models and above), as well as comfortable seats and a whole heap of standard equipment for your cash.

While the Kia Sportage’s near-£27,000 start price means it isn’t exactly a budget option any more, you do get a lot of kit for your money. The range kicks off with the Kia Sportage 2, which comes with an eight-inch touchscreen media system, a reversing camera, cruise control and 17-inch alloy wheels.

The Kia Sportage GT-Line is meant to be a sportier choice, which explains the 19-inch alloy wheels and gloss black exterior highlights, while we reckon the mid-spec Kia Sportage 3 represents the sweet spot in the range. This features 18-inch alloy wheels, a 12.3-inch navigation system and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. You also get part-faux-leather seats and a heated steering wheel.

Sitting above this is the Kia Sportage 4, which comes with a panoramic sunroof, Harman Kardon sound system and a wireless phone charger, while the range is topped up with the pricey Kia Sportage GT-Line S. This is fully-loaded, with standard equipment including bespoke exterior styling, 19-inch alloys (18-inch on the hybrid), part-artificial leather and ventilated front seats. You also get an electric tailgate.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed with choice already, wait until we get onto the engine line-up. We’ll cover this in-depth in the engine section (click the 'driving' tab above), but it includes petrol, diesel, mild-hybrid, hybrid and plug-in hybrid power. You can’t buy an electric Kia Sportage – if that’s what you’re after, take a look at the Kia EV6 instead.

Kia also offers the Sportage with a variety of manual and automatic transmissions, and you can get it with four-wheel drive if you really must. We wouldn’t bother unless you live in the Scottish Highlands. And, even then, a set of winter tyres might be a better investment.

So far, we’ve sampled the entry-level 1.6-litre T-GDi petrol and, while the hybrid options certainly make a lot of sense in 2024, there’s a lot to be said for straightforward petrol power. It’s powerful enough for most drivers, while the six-speed manual gearbox is perfectly functional.

Where we think the Kia Sportage makes less sense is the higher-spec, more complex (i.e. hybrid) models. These are more expensive to buy and it could take a while for private buyers to recoup the cost in fuel savings.

Still, there’s a lot going for the Kia Sportage and it really should be high up on your shortlist compared to the likes of the Vauxhall Grandland, Volkswagen Tiguan and Ford Kuga.

Kia Sportage handling and engines

Driving Rating
The Kia Sportage comes with an extensive engine line-up including petrol, diesel, mild-hybrid, hybrid and plug-in hybrid models. There's little surprising in the way it handles, but that's not necessarily a bad thing. There's a comprehensive list of standard safety and driver-assist functions, too.

Kia Sportage 2024: Handling and ride quality

The Kia Sportage strikes a slightly annoying middle ground in the way it drives. It's neither as soft as a Skoda Karoq nor as agile as a SEAT Ateca or Mazda CX-5. Out of town, it doesn't lean much in corners, while there's a reassuring amount of grip on offer. While the light steering is great in a city centre, it's pretty numb on the open road, and the firm ride means you'll be dodging potholes like they're grenades.

Still, its vanilla approach to handling is no worse than a Nissan Qashqai or Hyundai Tucson. And as the Sportage's footprint is barely bigger than a Volkswagen Golf's, it's not as intimidating to drive as bigger SUVs like the Kia Sorento.

You get the usual mix of drives mode in the Kia Sportage, meaning you can dial up the sportiness if you feel the need. There's also a new Terrain mode, which is fitted on all hybrid and plug-in hybrid all-wheel-drive models. It features 'mud', 'snow' and 'sand' settings, optimising things like the throttle response and transmission to help you keep going when the going gets tough. We haven't tried the Sportage in particularly challenging conditions, but four-wheel-drive variants should be more than up to the job of tackling a snowy back road.

Kia Sportage 2024: Engines

While rivals like the Nissan Qashqai offer a fairly limited engine line-up, the Kia Sportage really does cater for every driver. Kicking off the range is a turbocharged petrol unit which, actually, we reckon will suit a lot of buyers. It's punchy enough (with 150PS on tap) and the six-speed manual gearbox is perfectly fine, even though we tend to prefer automatic transmissions in cars like this.


The same engine is available with 48-volt mild-hybrid tech and a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. We’re yet to try the MHEV Sportage, but the battery setup improves fuel economy and provides a small power boost - just don’t expect to drive any significant distance under electric power.

The Kia Sportage Hybrid is a ‘self-charging’ hybrid, which combines the 1.6-litre petrol with a 1.5kWh battery and an electric motor. On paper, this is pretty powerful, but it doesn’t feel quite as quick as you’d expect for a 229PS petrol-electric SUV. Even though it uses a traditional six-speed torque-converter automatic transmission (unlike the CVT gearbox favoured by rivals), it’s surprisingly noisy, especially during harsh acceleration. Maybe we need to spend more time with the Kia Sportage Hybrid but, so far, it’s perhaps the weakling in the range.

There’s a plug-in hybrid on its way, again combining the 1.6-litre petrol engine with a bigger 13.8kWh battery and an electric motor. There’s also a diesel - a 1.6 CRDi available with or without mild-hybrid assistance, and with a six-speed manual or seven-speed auto gearbox.

Although most Kia Sportage buyers are expected to buy a front-wheel-drive model, high-spec cars (including petrol, hybrid and diesel versions) are offered with all-wheel-drive. The PHEV, meanwhile, will be exclusively four-wheel drive.

Kia Sportage 2024: Safety

As you’d expect for a family SUV, the Kia Sportage is packed with technology intended to prevent a crash or, at least, reduce the severity of a collision. Highlights include the Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist system, which will apply the brakes if it detects an impending collision with another car, pedestrian or cyclist.

The top-of-the-range models come with a 360-degree parking camera, as well as a blind-spot warning system.

The new Kia Sportage is yet to be crash-tested by Euro NCAP.

Kia Sportage 2024: Towing

Petrol, diesel and hybrid Kia Sportage models are able to tow braked loads weighing up to 1650kg. This should be efficient for a small- to medium-sized caravan.

Engine MPG 0-62 CO2
1.6 CRDi - 11.7 s 138 g/km
1.6 CRDI - 11.7 s 138 g/km
1.6 CRDI 113 - 11.7 s 138 g/km
1.6 CRDI Automatic - 11.2 s 135 g/km
1.6 CRDI Automatic 4WD - 11.2 s 148 g/km
1.6 T-GDI - 9.4–9.9 s 154 g/km
1.6 T-GDi 157 - - 146 g/km
1.6 T-GDi 157 DCT - - 146–147 g/km
1.6 T-GDi 207 Hybrid - - 129–146 g/km
1.6 T-GDi 241 PHEV - - 25 g/km
1.6 T-GDI Automatic - 9.3 s 146 g/km
1.6 T-GDI Automatic 4WD - 9.3 s 158 g/km
1.6 T-GDI Hybrid - 7.7 s 129–146 g/km
PHEV - 7.9 s 25 g/km

Kia Sportage interior

Interior Rating
The Kia Sportage's interior looks the part and feels the part, while standard equipment is generous. It's practical enough for family life, too, with a bigger boot than the new Nissan Qashqai.
Dimensions
Length 4515 mm
Width 2080 mm
Height 1645–1650 mm
Wheelbase 2680 mm

Full specifications

Kia Sportage 2024: Practicality

The Kia Sportage gets a 591-litre boot, which is broadly the same as you'll get in a Skoda Karoq and only slightly smaller than a Hyundai Tucson.

Access to the boot is typically high for an SUV, but at least a false floor reduces the lip for lifting heavy shopping over. The boot’s a very usable shape, while tie-down points mean you can add a luggage net to keep things in place, if you wish. The rear seats can be dropped easily using levers in the boot providing a properly flat floor and up to 1780 litres of luggage space.

Most passenger will be pretty content in the rear seats of the new Kia Sportage. It’s spacious enough, while kids will enjoy the high seating position and the ability to recline the backrest. Access is fine for loading in a child seat, while Isofix mounting points will also make life easier for parents.

In the front, there’s loads of space, and enough adjustment in the seat to provide high or low seating positions depending on your tastes. There’s the usual mix of stowage areas, although the door bins aren’t cavernous and neither is the cubby box underneath the armrest.

Kia Sportage 2024: Quality and finish

While the Kia Sportage doesn't feel quite as posh inside as premium alternatives like the Audi Q3, it's certainly far from bargain basement. We've sampled a mid-spec Kia Sportage 3, which comes with a load of features which make it feel more expensive than it really is – including part-faux-leather seats (heated in the front and rear) as well as a heated steering wheel.

You don't have to worry about the Kia Sportage being too plush for family life, though. It's got hard, wipe-clean plastics in all the right places while, if it's anything like the last Kia Sportage, we've no doubt it'll stand the test of time.

Kia Sportage 2024: Infotainment

A highlight of the new Kia Sportage's interior is the slick curved twin-screen display which stretches across the dashboard. Standard on Sportage 3, 4 and GT-Line S trim levels, not only does this look the part but it's also pretty simple to use. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, giving you the ability to mirror apps from your phone, while buyers also get a free seven-year subscription to Kia Connect. This includes online services such as navigation with live updates.

As with a lot of new cars, one criticism we have is that the infotainment requires leaning forwards to make inputs, which isn't a problem on cars with a rotary controller like the excellent Mazda CX-5. The row of touch-sensitive buttons beneath the nav system means you can adjust the climate control with minimal effort, though.

Lower-spec Kia Sportage models come with a more basic eight-inch touchscreen display and 4.2-inch digital instrument cluster. High-spec Kia Sportage 4 and GT-Line S trim levels come with a premium Harman Kardon sound system.

Kia Sportage value for money

Value for Money Rating
The Kia Sportage is no longer a budget option, but it still represents good value for money. You get a generous amount of standard kit, and there's no real need to spend serious cash on more expensive models.

Kia Sportage 2024: Prices

Prices start from £26,745 for a Kia Sportage 2 with the 1.6-litre petrol engine, while a mid-spec Kia Sportage 3 with the same engine is close to £31,000. The cheapest diesel is the Kia Sportage 3 1.6 CRDi, which is priced from £31,945.

Hybrid models start from £33,245 in GT-Line trim, while the plug-in hybrid is priced from £38,395.

The range tops out at more than £40,000 for fully-loaded models, including the Kia Sportage GT-Line S  hybrids and plug-in hybrids.

Kia Sportage 2024: Running Costs

While buyers get a wide range of engines to choose from, no Kia Sportage is going to break the bank in terms of running costs.

Fuel economy figures for the Kia Sportage plug-in hybrid are yet to be announced, but it's likely to have an official electric range of around 32 miles. That means you can plug it in at home and cover the commute or school run without the petrol engine kicking in.

Don't want the faff of having to charge a car? The hybrid Kia Sportage returns up to 49.6mpg according to WLTP fuel economy tests, while the four-wheel-drive version is good for 44.1mpg.

For drivers who regularly cover long-distance schleps, the Kia Sportage CRDi diesel officially returns up to 54.3mpg.

For everyone else, the petrol Kia Sportage has an official fuel economy figure of up to 42.2mpg, while the mild-hybrid model returns 44.1mpg in official tests.

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Kia Sportage models and specs

Kia Sportage 2 models come with an eight-inch touchscreen infotainment system with DAB radio, a reversing camera, front and rear parking sensors, cruise control and 17-inch alloy wheels.

The Kia Sportage GT-Line adds 19-inch alloy wheels (18-inch on the hybrid), chrome exterior highlights and a gloss black radiator grille, side sills and wheel arch mouldings. Rear privacy glass is standard, while inside there's a 12.3-inch navigation system, suede leather seats, sports pedals and a D-shaped perforated leather steering wheel. 

The Kia Sportage 3 builds on the 2 spec with 18-inch alloy wheels, rear privacy glass and LED front fog lights. Inside, there's black cloth and faux-leather seats, a heated steering wheel, heated front and rear outer seats, a 12.3-inch navigation system and a 12.3-inch digital instrument display.

Standard equipment on the Kia Sportage 4 includes a panoramic sunroof, Harman Kardon premium sound system, a wireless phone charger, a wide range of driver-assist tech, LED tail lights and ambient interior lighting. Cosmetic exterior highlights include a gloss black radiator grille and chrome garnishes.

The Kia Sportage GT-Line S tops the range with bespoke exterior styling, 19-inch alloy wheels (18-inch on the hybrid), artificial leather and suede upholstery and ventilated front seats with 10-way power adjustment. There's also an electric tailgate and an optional two-tone black roof.

Dimensions
Length 4515 mm
Width 2080 mm
Height 1645–1650 mm
Wheelbase 2680 mm
Miscellaneous
Kerb Weight 1526–1905 kg
Boot Space -
Warranty
Servicing -
Costs
List Price £27,160–£45,045
Insurance Groups -
Road Tax Bands A–G
Official MPG -
Euro NCAP Safety Ratings
Adult -
Child -
Pedestrian -
Overall -

Currently on sale

SUV
Version List Price MPG 0-62
2 T-GDi 157 2WD MHEV 48v ISG Start/Stop 5dr - - -
3 T-GDi 157 2WD MHEV 48v DCT Auto ISG Start/Stop 5dr - - -
3 T-GDi 157 2WD MHEV 48v ISG Start/Stop 5dr - - -
3 T-GDi 212 S/C Auto Start/Stop 5dr - - -
3 T-GDi 248 67kw 13.8kWh Battery Auto Start/Stop 5dr - - -
GT Line S T-GDi 157 2WD MHEV 48v DCT Auto ISG Start/Stop 5dr - - -
GT Line S T-GDi 212 S/C Auto Start/Stop 5dr - - -
GT Line S T-GDi 212 S/C Auto Start/Stop 5dr - - -
GT Line S T-GDi 248 67kw 13.8kWh Battery Auto Start/Stop 5dr - - -
GT Line T-GDi 157 2WD MHEV 48v DCT Auto ISG Start/Stop 5dr - - -
GT Line T-GDi 157 2WD MHEV 48v ISG Start/Stop 5dr - - -
GT Line T-GDi 212 S/C Auto Start/Stop 5dr - - -
GT Line T-GDi 248 67kw 13.8kWh Battery Auto Start/Stop 5dr - - -
Shadow T-GDi 212 S/C Auto Start/Stop 5dr - - -

On sale until May 2024

SUV
Version List Price MPG 0-62
2 T-GDi 148 2WD ISG Start/Stop 5dr £27,160 - 9.9 s
3 T-GDi 148 2WD ISG Start/Stop 5dr £30,810 - 9.9 s
3 T-GDi 148 2WD MHEV DCT Auto ISG Start/Stop 5dr £32,380 - 9.3 s
3 T-GDi 226 S/C Auto Start/Stop 5dr £34,220 - 7.7 s
3 T-GDi 261 67kw 13.8kWh Battery Auto Start/Stop 5dr £41,345 - 7.9 s
GT Line S T-GDi 148 2WD MHEV DCT Auto ISG Start/Stop 5dr £37,625 - -
GT Line S T-GDi 148 4WD MHEV DCT Auto ISG Start/Stop 5dr £38,870 - 9.3 s
GT Line S T-GDi 226 S/C Auto Start/Stop 5dr £39,675 - 7.7 s
GT Line S T-GDi 226 S/C Auto Start/Stop 5dr £41,275 - 7.7 s
GT Line S T-GDi 261 67kw 13.8kWh Battery Auto Start/Stop 5dr £45,045 - 7.9 s
GT Line T-GDi 148 2WD ISG Start/Stop 5dr £29,135 - 9.9 s
GT Line T-GDi 148 2WD MHEV DCT Auto ISG Start/Stop 5dr £32,425 - 9.3 s
GT Line T-GDi 226 S/C Auto Start/Stop 5dr £33,020 - 7.7 s
GT Line T-GDi 261 67kw 13.8kWh Battery Auto Start/Stop 5dr £39,845 - 7.9 s

On sale until December 2022

SUV
Version List Price MPG 0-62
2 CRDi 113 2WD ISG Start/Stop 5dr - - 11.7 s
3 CRDi 113 2WD ISG Start/Stop 5dr - - 11.7 s
3 CRDi 134 2WD MHEV DCT Auto ISG Start/Stop 5dr - - 11.2 s
4 CRDi 134 4WD MHEV DCT Auto ISG Start/Stop 5dr - - 11.2 s
4 T-GDi 148 4WD MHEV DCT Auto ISG Start/Stop 5dr - - 9.3 s
4 T-GDi 226 S/C Auto Start/Stop 5dr - - 7.7 s
4 T-GDi 261 67kw 13.8kWh Battery Auto Start/Stop 5dr - - 7.9 s
GT Line CRDi 113 2WD ISG Start/Stop 5dr - - 11.7 s
GT Line CRDi 134 2WD MHEV DCT Auto ISG Start/Stop 5dr - - 11.2 s
Launch Edition T-GDi 148 2WD ISG Start/Stop 5dr - - 9.4 s

Model History

January 0001

14-09-2021 Kia Sportage revealed

Kia has revealed the European Sportage. It combines a sleek yet muscular and modern exterior design with a cutting-edge premium interior featuring a swooping integrated curved display that houses the very latest advancements in connectivity tech.

The European Sportage is a perfect fit for European requirements, underscoring its everyday practicality and usability. Luggage capacity, headroom and legroom all being substantially increased over the outgoing Sportage model, with best-in-class legroom for the second-row passengers.

A plug-in hybrid (PHEV) model represents a first for the European Sportage, realizing emissions-free electric-only driving that can cover most daily trips from the home to work or for daily shopping needs. Petrol and diesel engines are also available.

The new Sportage debuts innovations, including Electronic Controlled Suspension (ECS) and a Terrain Mode gives the Sportage outstanding ride capabilities in conditions such as snow, mud and sand.

Safety featuring both passive and active high-tech systems DriveWise – including Kia’s world-renowned comprehensive suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS).

The new European version of the Sportage is an addition to the all-new fifth-generation family, of which the first member – a long-wheelbase variant, built for non-European markets – was unveiled in July.

December 2021

New Kia Sportage priced from £26,745

Ahead of its arrival in showrooms early in 2022, Kia UK has announced pricing and specifications for the all-new Sportage. The launch of the new car signals the widest range of powertrains ever, with customers able to choose from mild hybrid, hybrid, petrol, and diesel. Plug-in hybrid variants will join the line-up towards the end of Q1 2022, with all other iterations available from launch. UK order books for the new model open on 15 December.

The all-new Sportage delivers a brand-new design identity that gives the new car superb on-road presence. A dedicated design, especially for Europe, indicates the level of importance and significance that Kia places on the fifth generation Sportage. The medium SUV is not only the best-selling Kia model in the UK, but also in Europe and globally. The design is sleek yet muscular and combines with a cutting-edge premium interior that includes a curvaceous integrated display incorporating the latest in connectivity technology, including Kia Connect.

Developed using a new architecture, the latest Sportage has been developed in Europe for European buyers. In the car’s 28-year history, this is the first time that a separate model has been engineered exclusively for Europe. The packaging of the new car offers greater interior space while maintaining the relatively compact dimensions that make it ideal for European roads. Boot space, head- and leg-room are all substantially increased compared to the previous-generation car, with best-in-class legroom for rear seat occupants.

With two high-definition 12.3-inch displays available on ‘3’ models and above, they put the driver at the centre of the action. The latest Sportage is fully connected with access to over-the-air software and map updates, while the Kia Connect smartphone app – available on ‘3’ and ‘GT-Line’ grades and higher – allows owners to interact with their car without having to be in it.

The line-up includes a brand new HEV (Hybrid Electric Vehicle) for the first time, with a 1.6-litre T-GDi (Turbocharged-Gasoline Direct injection) engine, developing 226bhp. This will be joined by a Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) alternative towards the end of Q1 2022, offering 261bhp – another first for Sportage.

A selection of 1.6-litre internal combustion engines complete the range, with both petrol and diesel power on offer, underlining that this Sportage model is the most comprehensive yet. Available with and without Kia’s 48-volt mild hybrid technology, the latest Sportage is offered with a six-speed manual or seven-speed automatic dual-clutch transmission. A six-speed automatic transmission is offered on all HEV and PHEV variants.

The UK line-up for the all-new Sportage follows the same straightforward grade structure that characterises every model that Kia sells in the UK.

The line-up begins with the ‘2’ model, with a comprehensive specification and a choice of two powertrains. Firstly, there’s the 1.6-litre T-GDi petrol engine with two-wheel-drive, developing 148bhp and priced from £26,745. This is joined by a 113bhp 1.6-litre CRDi diesel engine with two-wheel-drive, priced from £27,745. Both are equipped with a six-speed manual transmission.

Equipment highlights include:

  • 17-inch alloy wheels
  • LED headlamps and daytime running lights
  • Front and rear parking sensors with reversing camera system
  • Android Auto TM , Apple CarPlay TM and Bluetooth connectivity
  • Cruise control with speed limiter
  • Electrically folding, adjustable and heated door mirrors
  • 8-inch touchscreen with DAB radio and MP3 compatibility
  • Electronic chromic rear view mirror
  • 40:20:40 split/folding rear seats
  • Automatic headlight control and rain sensors
  • Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA) with city, pedestrian, cyclist and junction covering
  • Lane Following Assist (LFA) and Lane Keep Assist (LKA)
  • Intelligent Speed Limit Assist (ISLA) and Hill-start Assist Control (HAC)
  • Silver roof rails

Adding a sporty flavour to proceedings is the ‘GT-Line’ edition, available with a choice of five powertrains. As well as 1.6-litre T-GDi petrol (£29,745) and 1.6-litre CRDi diesel (£30,745) choices, there’s the addition of a 148bhp 1.6-litre T-GDi 48-volt mild hybrid petrol powertrain with seven-speed automatic Dual-Clutch Transmission (7DCT) (from £31,445). Joining it is a 134bhp 1.6-litre CRDi diesel engine with mild hybrid technology and a seven-speed automatic dual-clutch transmission (£32,945). A 226bhp 1.6 T-GDi HEV model is also offered, with a six-speed automatic transmission (6AT), from £33,245. From launch, all ‘GT-Line’ models come exclusively with two-wheel drive. ‘GT-Line’ PHEV models will add all-wheel drive capability when launched in late Q1 2022, priced from £38,395.

For ‘GT-Line’ models, additional equipment over ‘2’ specification includes:

  • ‘GT-Line’ styling
  • 19-inch alloy wheels (18-inch alloy wheels on HEV)
  • 12.3-inch display with navigation system and Kia Connect
  • Rear privacy glass
  • Suede leather upholstery
  • Smart entry system with engine start/stop button
  • D-shaped perforated leather steering wheel
  • Sports pedals and aluminium pattern finish to fascia and door garnishes
  • LED front fog lamps and LED taillights
  • Gloss black radiator grille, side sills and wheel arch mouldings for a sportier appearance
  • Chrome front and rear skid plates

Grade ‘3’ also takes level ‘2’ as its basis for equipment, but shares the same engine range as the ‘GT-Line’ line-up, including HEV and – later in Q1 – PHEV models. The ‘3’ line-up includes a 148bhp 1.6-litre T-GDi unit with manual transmission (from £30,945), and a 48-volt mild hybrid 148bhp 1.6-litre T-GDi powerplant with 7DCT (from £32,645). Two diesel options are available: a 113bhp 1.6-litre CRDi diesel engine with manual gearbox (from £31,945); and a 134bhp 48-volt mild hybrid 1.6-litre CRDi diesel engine with 7DCT (from £34,145). Completing the list of available powertrains is the 226bhp 1.6-litre T-GDi HEV unit, paired with a six-speed automatic gearbox (priced from £34,445). All Sportage ‘3’ models feature two-wheel drive, with PHEV models available exclusively with all-wheel drive when sales commence (from £39,595).

For ‘3’ models, additional equipment in addition to grade ‘2’ includes:

  • 18-inch alloy wheels
  • 12.3-inch display with navigation system and Kia Connect
  • 12.3-inch colour cluster display
  • Rear privacy glass
  • Black cloth and faux leather upholstery
  • Heated front and rear outer seats
  • Heated steering wheel
  • Smart entry system with engine start/stop button
  • Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go functionality and Highway Driving Assist (HDA) – DCT versions only
  • Paddle-shifters (DCT versions only)
  • Front power adjustable seats
  • LED front fog lamps
  • Silver door and radiator upper garnishes
  • Silver rear skid plate

‘4’ specification gains 48-volt mild hybrid technology for all the internal combustion engine options, and come with all-wheel drive.. The hybrid version features two-wheel drive, while PHEV models will offer all-wheel drive. Both the 148bhp 1.6-litre T-GDi engine and 134bhp 1.6-litre CRDi engine feature 48-volt mild hybrid technology and are paired with Kia’s 7DCT, priced from £36,445 and £37,945, respectively. The 226bhp 1.6-litre T-GDi hybrid variant features a six-speed automatic gearbox and two-wheel drive, and is priced from £36,645. All-wheel drive PHEV models will be priced from £41,795.

‘4’ models feature the following additional equipment over ‘3’ models:

  • Panorama sunroof
  • Harman Kardon® premium sound system
  • Wireless mobile phone charger
  • 360-degree Around View Monitor
  • Blind-Spot View Monitor (BVM)
  • Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist (BCA)
  • Parking Collision-Avoidance Assist (PCA)
  • Remote Smart Parking Assist (RSPA) on HEV and PHEV versions
  • Dual LED adaptive headlamps
  • LED taillight clusters
  • Ambient lighting
  • Gloss black radiator grille, side sills, wheel arch mouldings and roof rails
  • Matt chrome door and radiator upper garnishes
  • Hyper silver rear skid plate

At the pinnacle of the all-new Sportage line-up is ‘GT-Line S’ specification. This is offered with the 148bhp 1.6-litre T-GDi engine with 7DCT and 48-volt mild hybrid technology and all-wheel-drive as standard, priced from £38,445. In addition, two 226bhp 1.6-litre T-GDi hybrid options are offered, with a choice of two-wheel drive (from £38,645) and all-wheel drive (from £40,245). Sportage PHEV ‘GT-Line S’ models, with all-wheel drive, represent the peak of the range, priced from £43,795.

The sporty appearance of the ‘GT-Line S’ takes the ‘4’ model as its basis and adds the following:

  • ‘GT-Line’ styling
  • 19-inch alloy wheels (18-inch alloy wheels on HEV)
  • Artificial leather and suede upholstery
  • Front ventilated seats
  • Optional two-tone black roof
  • 10-way driver’s and 8-way front passenger’s power adjustable seat
  • Smart power tailgate
  • Driver memory seats

The all-new Sportage

Price

Power

bhp

Torque

Nm

‘2’ 1.6 T-GDi 6-speed manual ISG

£26,745

148

250

‘2’ 1.6 CRDi 6-speed manual ISG

£27,745

113

280

‘GT-Line’ 1.6 T-GDi 6-speed manual ISG

£29,745

148

250

‘GT-Line’ 1.6 T-GDi 48V 7-speed auto DCT ISG

£31,445

148

250

‘GT-Line’ 1.6 CRDi 6-speed manual ISG

£30,745

113

280

‘GT-Line’ 1.6 CRDi 48V 7-speed auto DCT ISG

£32,945

134

320

‘3’ 1.6 T-GDi 6-speed manual ISG

£30,945

148

250

‘3’ 1.6 T-GDi 48V 7-speed auto DCT ISG

£32,645

148

250

‘3’ 1.6 CRDi 6-speed manual ISG

£31,945

113

280

‘3’ 1.6 CRDi 48V 7-speed auto DCT ISG

£34,145

134

320

‘4’ 1.6 T-GDi 48V 7-speed auto DCT ISG AWD

£36,445

148

250

‘4’ 1.6 CRDi 48V 7-speed auto DCT ISG AWD

£37,945

134

320

‘GT-Line S’ 1.6 T-GDi 48V 7-speed auto DCT ISG AWD

£38,445

148

250

The all-new Sportage Hybrid (HEV)

Price

Power bhp

Torque

Nm

‘GT-Line’ 1.6 T-GDi 6-speed auto HEV

£33,245

226

400

‘3’ 1.6 T-GDi 6-speed auto HEV

£34,445

226

400

‘4’ 1.6 T-GDi 6-speed auto HEV

£36,645

226

400

‘GT-Line S’ 1.6 T-GDi 6-speed auto HEV

£38,645

226

400

‘GT-Line S’ 1.6 T-GDi 6-speed auto HEV AWD

£40,245

226

400

The all-new Sportage Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV)

Price

Power bhp

Torque Nm

‘GT-Line’ 1.6 T-GDi 6-speed auto PHEV AWD

£38,395

261

TBC

‘3’ 1.6 T-GDi 6-speed auto PHEV AWD

£39,595

261

TBC

‘4’ 1.6 T-GDi 6-speed auto PHEV AWD

£41,795

261

TBC

‘GT-Line S’ 1.6 T-GDi 6-speed auto PHEV AWD

£43,795

261

TBC

March 2022

Kia Sportage Plug-in Hybrid revealed with 43-mile electric range

Kia has revealed full details of the all-new Sportage Plug-in Hybrid, including its low BIK tax band thanks to low CO2 emissions and long electric range.

Kia says the new Sportage Plug-in Hybrid blends power and performance with an exceptional combined fuel economy of 252mpg, and an emissions-free driving range of up to 43 miles (WLTP), rising to 48 miles on the WLTP City Cycle – enough to cover most daily commutes and shopping needs.

The Kia Sportage Plug-in Hybrid features a 1.6-litre T-GDi engine that works with a 66.9kW electric motor and a 13.8kWh lithium-ion polymer battery pack. The high-voltage battery sits centrally between the two axles under the body of the SUV, ensuring a balanced weight distribution and an interior space that is practical, comfortable and versatile.

Together, this powertrain combination delivers a total of 265PS and 350Nm of torque, a 0-60mph time of just 7.9 seconds, and a top speed of 119mph. A smooth and quick-shifting six-speed automatic transmission ensures drivers can make swift, effortless progress in all conditions.

The Plug-in Hybrid’s four-cylinder petrol engine features several measures designed to ensure optimum fuel efficiency in all operating conditions. These include a new and optimised combustion process, cooling technologies and key friction reduction measures, including an advanced integrated thermal management system and the use of a low-friction ball bearing. As a result, the new Sportage Plug-in Hybrid emits just 25g/km of CO2 on the weighted combined cycle.

As well as attracting £0 VED first-year tax after registration, the combination of low CO2 and long electric range means a Benefit-in-Kind (BIK) tax rate of 7 per cent for the current 2021/22 tax year, rising to 8 per cent for the next three tax years to 2024/25. As a result, the new model costs less to run than almost all of its rivals, despite its premium interior, strong performance and generous standard equipment levels.

The Sportage Plug-in Hybrid also includes Kia’s latest high-efficiency, high-performance Hybrid Starter Generator (HSG) module and Hybrid Power Control Unit (HPCU). Combined, these enhance efficiency, performance and reduce NVH levels when driving. The efficient on-board charger (OBC) system is rated at 7.2kW, making it the fastest-charging Kia PHEV to-date. The battery can complete a full charge in just 1hr 45m.

Attention to detail has resulted in a package that offers highly impressive legroom, headroom and luggage capacity. Second-row passengers benefit from 955mm of legroom and 998mm of headroom, while luggage capacity is a commodious 540 litres (VDA) with the rear seats in place. To maximize convenience, users have the option of folding the rear seats in a 40:20:40 split, an action that results in 1,715 litres of cargo space.

The Sportage Plug-in Hybrid features the same sleek and muscular exterior design as other fifth-generation Sportage models. Riding on stylish 19-inch alloy wheels, the Sportage Plug-in Hybrid is available across the ‘GT-Line’, ‘3’, ‘4’ and ‘GT-Line S’ grades with prices starting from £38,395 OTR.

The first UK customer deliveries of the all-new Sportage Plug-in Hybrid commence in April 2022.

 

CO2 (g/km)*

Economy (mpg)*

EV range (miles)

BIK %

(2022/23)

OTR

'GT-Line' 1.6 T-GDI 261bhp 6-speed auto PHEV AWD

25

252

43

8

£38,395

'3' 1.6 T-GDI 261bhp 6-speed auto PHEV AWD

25

252

43

8

£39,595

'4' 1.6 T-GDI 261bhp 6-speed auto PHEV AWD

25

252

43

8

£41,795

'GT-Line S' 1.6 T-GDI 261bhp 6-speed auto PHEV AWD

25

252

43

8

£43,795

June 2024

Kia Sportage hybrid Shadow special edition announced, priced from £36,485

Kia has announced a Shadow special edition of the Sportage family SUV. Shadow models are based on the Sportage 3 model, but add more features, exclusive interior colours and premium paint as standard.

The Sportage Shadow is available exclusively on hybrid models, and costs the same £36,485 as the Sportage 3 on which it's based.

Sportage Shadow models get a new Midnight Green interior pack, gloss black window and spoiler trim, a dark chrome finish to the front, rear, side and skid plate, and the choice of Experience Green, Phantom Black or Wolf Grey paint.

Prices for the Sportage Shadow start at £36,485.

What does the Kia Sportage cost?

Buy new from £25,282(list price from £29,400)