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2017 Kia Sportage Test: Our View
The Kia Sportage: Redefining Excellence in the Compact SUV Segment
In the fiercely competitive compact SUV market, the Kia Sportage emerges as a standout contender, combining sophisticated design, impressive performance, and premium features that rival more expensive luxury models. This comprehensive review examines why the Sportage deserves serious consideration from discerning buyers.
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Key Takeaways
- Complete redesign elevates every aspect of the driving experience
- Two potent engine options including a 240-hp turbocharged variant
- Class-leading 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty
- Available advanced safety suite with pedestrian detection
- Spacious interior with premium materials in higher trims
Evolution of a Champion: The Sportage's Fourth Generation
As Kia's longest-running nameplate, the Sportage represents the culmination of decades of refinement. The current generation marks a significant leap forward, addressing previous shortcomings while introducing premium features typically found in more expensive segments.
The transformation extends beyond cosmetic updates, with engineering improvements that enhance driving dynamics, comfort, and safety. From its redesigned chassis to the available advanced driver assistance systems, every aspect has been meticulously considered.
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Trim Level Breakdown
| Trim | Engine | Key Features | Starting Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| LX | 2.4L 4-cylinder (181 hp) | 17" alloys, 5" touchscreen, rearview camera | $24,795 |
| EX | 2.4L 4-cylinder (181 hp) | 18" alloys, leather seats, dual-zone climate | $28,495 |
| SX Turbo | 2.0L Turbo 4-cylinder (240 hp) | 19" alloys, navigation, ventilated seats | $33,395 |
Exterior Design: Bold Styling with Functional Benefits
The Sportage's dramatic redesign features Kia's signature "tiger nose" grille flanked by distinctive headlight clusters. While the vehicle actually grew slightly in dimensions, clever styling creates a more planted, athletic stance.
Notable Exterior Features:
- LED lighting across all trims (daytime running lights, taillights)
- 18-inch alloy wheels standard on EX, 19-inch on SX Turbo
- Panoramic moonroof available on higher trims
- Gloss black accents and dual exhaust on SX Turbo
The repositioned rear license plate from bumper to liftgate wasn't just a styling choice - it reduces lift-over height by 1.2 inches for easier cargo loading.
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Performance and Driving Dynamics
Kia offers two well-matched engine options to suit different driving preferences and budgets:
Engine Specifications
- Base Engine: 2.4L 4-cylinder (181 hp @ 6,000 rpm, 175 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm)
- Turbocharged Option: 2.0L 4-cylinder (240 hp @ 6,000 rpm, 260 lb-ft @ 1,450-3,500 rpm)
The turbocharged engine delivers particularly impressive performance, with peak torque available across a broad rpm range for responsive acceleration in all driving situations. Both engines pair with a well-calibrated six-speed automatic transmission.
All-Wheel Drive System
The available AWD system represents a significant upgrade over previous generations, featuring:
- 50/50 locking differential for challenging conditions
- Torque vectoring to individual wheels
- Automatic disconnection when not needed to preserve fuel economy
During testing, the system demonstrated remarkable composure on loose surfaces, maintaining traction without perceptible wheel slip. Interestingly, the front-wheel-drive models offer slightly sharper initial acceleration, though the AWD versions provide superior all-weather capability.
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Interior Comfort and Technology
The Sportage's cabin represents a quantum leap in quality, with available premium materials that challenge luxury competitors. Thoughtful ergonomics and generous passenger space make it ideal for both daily commutes and long-distance travel.
Interior Highlights:
- Driver-focused cockpit with 7.2-degree angled center stack
- Expansive glass area for improved visibility
- Class-leading headroom in both rows
- Available panoramic moonroof (4.1" longer than previous model)
The redesigned seating position lowers the hip point by 1.6 inches while maintaining comfortable ingress/egress. High-quality leather upholstery and available ventilated front seats enhance comfort in all conditions.
Infotainment and Connectivity
Kia's UVO3 system represents one of the most user-friendly interfaces in the segment, with:
- Standard Android Auto and available Apple CarPlay
- 7-inch touchscreen (EX) or 8-inch with navigation (SX Turbo)
- 10-year complimentary UVO eServices including emergency assistance
- Available Harman Kardon premium audio system
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Cargo and Practicality
While not class-leading in sheer volume, the Sportage offers clever cargo solutions:
| Configuration | Cargo Volume |
|---|---|
| Rear seats up | 30.7 cu ft |
| Rear seats folded | 60.1 cu ft |
Innovative features include:
- Dual-level cargo floor (lowers 3 inches for additional space)
- Hands-free power liftgate (no kicking required)
- 40/20/40 split-folding rear seat for flexible configurations
Safety and Driver Assistance
The Sportage earned top marks from the IIHS, including "Good" ratings in all crash tests. Available advanced safety features include:
Available Safety Technologies
- Forward Collision Warning with Automatic Emergency Braking (0-112 mph operating range)
- Pedestrian Detection system
- Lane Departure Warning
- Blind Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
- Front and Rear Parking Sensors
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These systems come standard on SX Turbo models and are available in packages for EX trims. All models include a standard rearview camera.
Competitive Landscape and Value Proposition
When compared segment leaders, the Sportage holds its own:
| Model | Base Price | Max Cargo (cu ft) | Top Engine HP |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kia Sportage | $24,795 | 60.1 | 240 |
| Honda CR-V | $26,800 | 70.9 | 190 |
| Toyota RAV4 | $27,375 | 73.4 | 203 |
While the Sportage trails slightly in cargo capacity, it offers superior standard power and available performance. The SX Turbo's premium features compare favorably against more expensive luxury-brand competitors.
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Final Verdict: Who Should Consider the Sportage?
The Kia Sportage represents an outstanding choice for:
- Driving enthusiasts who want engaging dynamics in an SUV package
- Families seeking premium comfort and safety
- Value-conscious buyers who appreciate Kia's industry-leading warranty
- Urban dwellers needing maneuverability with available AWD capability
With its combination of style, performance, and value, the Sportage deserves a spot on every compact SUV shopper's consideration list. The SX Turbo model in particular offers near-luxury features at mainstream prices, while the LX represents one of the segment's best values.
Motorveroben
Last Updated On May, 30-2025