2023 Kia Sportage Review: Stepping Up Its Game
The Kia Sportage has received a complete overhaul for the new year, entering its fifth generation with slightly larger dimensions, updated safety features, and a new engine. However, it is not only available as a purely gas-powered SUV but also a hybrid, with both standard and plug-in hybrid alternatives. This positions it well to contend with competitors like the Toyota RAV4 and Hyundai Tucson. The new 2.5L inline-four now comes with an eight-speed automatic transmission, making 187 horsepower to get the compact vehicle moving more easily. However, both hybrids are significantly more powerful. For more outdoorsy, adventurous types, the new X-Line and X-Pro trims come with standard AWD, a Snow driving mode, and other practical extras that add some welcome ruggedness to Kia's family-friendly crossover.
What's the Price of the 2023 Kia Sportage?
Pricing specs for the Kia Sportage trims range from exceptionally affordable to quite expensive in the case of the PHEVs.
The starting price of the 2023 Kia Sportage is extremely affordable at just $26,290 for the LX, which increases to $27,490 if you want the hybrid. The cheapest way to get great value is the EX trim, which starts at $28,290, or $31,190 for the hybrid. That's followed by the X-Line at $31,090 and the SX at $31,790, though the PHEV X-Line increases significantly to $38,690. The SX Prestige is also available as a gas-powered car for $33,790 or a hybrid for $36,390.
The more rugged X-Pro trims start at $35,290 and top out at $37,090 for the X-Line Prestige. The only model with a higher price is the new Kia Sportage X-Line Prestige, which is a PHEV only, at $43,190. The LX, EX, SX, and SX Prestige can all upgrade from FWD to AWD for an additional $1,800. These Kia Sportage prices are MSRP and do not include the destination charge of $1,325.
2023 Sportage Exterior
Dimensions
| Length | Wheelbase | Height | Max Width | Front Width | Rear Width | Curb Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 183.5 in | 108.5 in | 65.4 in | 73.4 in | 63.8 in | 64.1 in | 3,373.0 lbs |
2023 Sportage Performance
2023 Kia Sportage Handling And Driving Impressions
There are plenty of crossovers in the USA, and they all need to meet certain expectations to be successful. This starts with a comfortable ride quality and easy driving dynamics, and while many build on this with some engaging qualities, the Sportage doubles down on what it's good at, especially with its longer wheelbase. While the new base engine is technically more powerful, 187 hp isn't enough to make the vehicle feel even slightly sporty, and the same goes for the secure but uninvolving handling. Then again, ride quality is easily more important in this segment, and the Sportage excels in this respect.
Top-tier models do get multi-terrain drive modes and standard all-wheel drive with a center-locking differential, all of which make the Sportage a little more capable when venturing off the beaten path. We'd also recommend the Sportage Hybrid (227 hp) or Sportage PHEV (261 hp) as the extra power makes a marked difference. However, do note that the PHEV is a lot more expensive as it isn't available in lower trim levels.
2023 Sportage Interior
2023 Sportage Trunk and Cargo Space
Warranty
| Basic | Drivetrain | Corrosion | Roadside Assistance |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 Years / 60,000 Miles | 10 Years / 100,000 Miles | 5 Years / 100,000 Miles | 5 Years / 60,000 Miles |
Verdict: Is The 2023 Kia Sportage A Good SUV?
It's hard to criticize the 2023 Kia Sportage. The mildly upgraded engine could definitely be stronger, but it does a great job of improving fuel efficiency, though you can always opt for one of the hybrid models if that is a higher priority for you. You'll need to pay a lot more for the PHEV model, but outside of that one, you get a car that is jam-packed with value, from its base safety systems to its newly upgraded infotainment suite. A bit of extra length with a longer wheelbase has helped the Sportage catch up to leading rivals with more legroom and cargo capacity, and the ride is even more comfortable, which is exactly what most people want from this type of vehicle. If you're looking for fun, though, look elsewhere, as this little Kia is all about that city lifestyle. It isn't well-equipped to deal with corners at high speeds. That being said, it can go off-road, at least a little bit, thanks to some extra ground clearance and additional multi-terrain features. In our review, we found the Kia Sportage is a great car in its latest iteration, having shored up some of its weaknesses and added some extra padding in areas where it already excelled. It's also highly affordable in its lower-tier configurations and is offered with hybrid powertrains for those who don't mind investing more now to save later.
What 2023 Kia Sportage Model Should I Buy?
In terms of sheer value for your money, the EX is the clear winner, as it adds a number of desirable features such as dual-zone climate control, a power-adjustable driver's seat, and heated front seats, along with the next-gen infotainment suite, all at a very nominal increase in price. It also gets a few nice-to-have safety enhancements. However, if you want to see the best fuel economy, you will have to look at the upper end of the range for one of the plug-in hybrid Kia Sportage models, which all cost considerably more.