Auto Guide
2026 Kia Sportage
New Expert recommended

Review and specifications

2026 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.

Market value
$29,963
Fuel
Conventional
Transmission
Automatic
Seats
5
View listings Find dealers
Model year 2026
Owner rating Not rated
Reliability 4/5
Data updated June 4, 2026

At a glance

Model data

Overview

Powertrain
Conventional
Body style
4-door SUV
Drive type
AWD
Transmission
Automatic, 8-speed
Category
Compact SUVs
Generation began
2023

Pricing

Current retail median
$29,963
Retail value range
$24,375 - $34,975
Original MSRP range
$28,790 - $39,690
Trade-in range
$23,460 - $34,935

Ratings

Road test score
78/100
Reliability
4/5
Expert recommendation
Recommended

Fuel economy

EPA city
23 MPG
EPA highway
26 MPG
EPA combined
25 MPG
Tested city
17 MPG
Tested highway
34 MPG
Tested overall
25 MPG
Annual fuel cost
$1,575
Cruising range
355 miles

Road tests

0-30 mph
3.5 sec
0-60 mph
10 sec
60-0 mph braking
134 ft
Avoidance speed
55.5 mph
Test status
Test Completed

Dimensions

Length
184 in
Width
73 in
Height
65 in
Wheelbase
109 in
Weight
3,610 lb
Maximum load
925 lb
Towing capacity
3,500 lb

Interior

Seating
5 people
Front head room
6 in
Front leg room
43 in
Rear head room
5 in
Rear leg room
30.5 in
Cargo volume
38 cu ft
Luggage
4+2+0

Environmental impact

Air pollution score
6/10
Greenhouse gas score
5/10
SmartWay
No

Brand context

About Kia

<p>For almost any modern vehicle category, there’s a Kia that’s worth considering buying. Among competitive small and midsized sedans, Kia sells the K4 and K5. For small and midsized SUVs, models like the Sportage and Sorento are competitive with nice interiors, good ride comfort, and appropriately powerful engines. Fuel economy across the brand is generally good, but hybrid and plug-in hybrid options are available for even more miles per gallon. Plug-in hybrid options have a useful all-electric driving range. Kia EVs are generally competent, but buyers need to be attentive to reliability. Many new and used Kias earn our recommendation.</p><p><br/></p>

Vehicle ID: 34664 First published: December 4, 2025 Updated: June 4, 2026

Values may vary by trim, options, location, and market conditions.

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