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Cars in Taylor Swift Music Videos2026 Kia Sportage Review
With bold styling, hybrid options, and serious cargo space, the 2026 Kia Sportage is built for drivers who want comfort, capability, and a little adventure.
Overview
The 2026 Kia Sportage blends rugged design with hybrid efficiency and a roomy interior. This compact SUV is built for road trips, daily commutes, and everything in between.
Carsforsale.com Score
8.5/10
Powertrain
Score
8.5/10
Interior
Score
8.5/10
Technology
Score
9/10
Value
Score
8.25/10
2026 Kia Sportage Powertrain 8.5/10
The 2026 Kia Sportage offers a versatile lineup of powertrains to suit a wide range of driving needs. The standard gas-powered engine is a 2.5-liter inline-4 that delivers 187 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. This setup provides a solid balance of performance and efficiency, achieving an estimated 25 MPG in the city and 33 MPG on the highway with front-wheel drive.
The Sportage Hybrid features a 1.6-liter turbocharged engine combined with an electric motor. This hybrid system produces a total of 232 horsepower and 271 lb-ft of torque, mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission. Impressively, it returns up to 42 MPG in the city and 44 MPG on the highway.
The plug-in hybrid variant takes things a step further, pairing the same 1.6-liter turbocharged engine with a more powerful electric motor and complemented with a 6-speed automatic transmission. This configuration boosts output to 261 horsepower and 271 lb-ft of torque, while also offering an estimated 34 miles of electric-only driving range.
No matter which powertrain you choose, the Sportage offers a smooth and composed ride. All-wheel drive is available across the lineup, enhancing traction and confidence in all weather conditions. For those with a taste for adventure, the X-Pro trims add all-terrain tires and an off-road-tuned suspension, giving the Sportage some light off-roading chops when the pavement runs out.
2026 Kia Sportage Interior 8.5/10
The 2026 Kia Sportage offers a thoughtfully designed interior that prioritizes comfort and practicality. With two rows of seating, it provides ample space for up to five passengers. Rear-seat passengers benefit from an impressive 41.3 inches of legroom, making long drives more comfortable for everyone. Depending on the trim, buyers can choose between durable SynTex upholstery or premium leather, with upper trims offering heated and ventilated front seats for added luxury.
Cargo space is another strong point for the Sportage. Behind the second row, it offers 39.6 cubic feet of storage. When the rear seats are folded down, that space expands to a generous 74.1 cubic feet, making it one of the more spacious options in the compact SUV segment.
2026 Kia Sportage Technology 9/10
The 2026 Kia Sportage comes well-equipped with a suite of modern technology features that enhance both convenience and safety. The standard infotainment setup includes an 8-inch touchscreen, while higher trims offer a striking dual 12.3-inch panoramic display setup that stretches across the dashboard. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard on the base screen, though the larger displays require a wired connection. For audiophiles, an available Harman Kardon premium audio system delivers rich, immersive sound.
In terms of driver assistance, the Sportage includes a robust list of standard features such as forward collision avoidance, lane-keeping assist, and driver attention warning. Higher trims add advanced options like a blind spot view monitor, highway driving assist, and a surround view monitor for easier parking and maneuvering. Kia Connect services are available for remote access and vehicle monitoring, and SiriusXM satellite radio is available on upper trims, rounding out a well-connected driving experience.
2026 Kia Sportage Value 8.25/10
The 2026 Kia Sportage delivers strong value across its lineup, starting with the base LX trim at $28,690. This entry-level model includes LED headlights, an 8-inch touchscreen, and a suite of advanced driver aids.
The EX Hybrid trim is widely recommended for its balance of features and efficiency. Starting at $33,590, it adds dual 12.3-inch displays, a hybrid powertrain, front and rear USB-C charging ports, leather wrapped steering wheel, and heated front seats.
At the top of the range, the X-Pro Prestige trim starts at $47,190 and caters to drivers who want rugged capability and luxury in one package. It includes the plug-in hybrid powertrain, all-terrain tires, a surround view monitor, premium Harmon-Kardon sound system, and heated seats throughout the cabin.
Compared to rivals like the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and Subaru Forester, the Sportage holds is priced competitively and offers a standout warranty. However, these competitors are among the most reliable vehicles on sale today, and Toyota’s hybrid system is more efficient, which is something to consider.
Trims & Pricing
2026 Kia Sportage Final Score 8.5/10
The 2026 Kia Sportage is an okay choice in the compact SUV segment. There are lots of options to pick from, and even mid-level trims have a touch of luxury. However, the Sportage competes in a crowded segment, and it ranks behind other choices like the RAV4 or the Honda CRV.
