Kia Sportage

The redesigned 2023 Sportage is larger and better equipped than the previous model. It looks to appeal to more shoppers with three new adventure-themed trim levels, a generous roster of active safety equipment, and available upscale amenities, like a large dash display, panoramic roof, and heated windshield. It is available in front- and all-wheel drive. The standard engine is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder with an eight-speed automatic transmission. A hybrid version is available and is powered by a 1.6-liter turbo four-cylinder engine, which together with its electric drive yields 227 hp. Most controls are easy to use, though the touch-capacitive panel for climate and media systems is annoying. Each Sportage comes with FCW, AEB with pedestrian and cyclist detection, LKA, LCA, automatic high beams, rear occupant reminder, and rear parking obstruction warning. Options include BSW, RCTW with rear automatic braking and collision avoidance, and ACC.

The redesigned Sportage is a stylish and mildly sporty choice among small SUVs. Most versions are equipped with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder, and the top-trim SX version sports a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder. Both are mated to a smooth six-speed automatic transmission. Though a touch firm, the ride is composed and handling is responsive. Unlike the similar Hyundai Tucson, the Sportage benefits from the pairing of a larger engine and a conventional automatic transmission, which combine to give it smoother power delivery. The rear seat is roomy and the controls are easy to use, but visibility to the rear and side is difficult. The new Sportage scored a Good in the IIHS small-overlap crash test. The Sportage was freshened for 2020. Forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking and pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, and lane keeping assistance are standard equipment across all trims. Blind spot warning and rear cross traffic warning are standard on all, except on the base trim, where those items are optional.

Kia got a toehold in the growing small-SUV segment when it introduced its trucklike Sportage in 1995. The Sportage is made in the mold of the Geo Tracker and Suzuki Sidekick, with a body-on-frame chassis instead of the carlike unibody construction that's become common on small SUVs. A shorter-wheelbase, two-door soft-top model expanded the model range in 1998. The Sportage has an uncomfortable ride, clumsy handling, and a noisy, unrefined powertrain. It offers only a part-time 4WD system that can't be used on dry roads. Overall, it's not nearly as good as the Toyota RAV4 or Honda CR-V. Discontinued after the 2002 model year, the Sportage was revived for 2005.