Feature article
Kia Sportage Review: Buying Guide
The Kia Sportage is the Korean brand’s entry into the busy mid-sized SUV market.
Last updated: 2 December 2024
The Kia Sportage is the Korean brand’s entry into the busy mid-sized SUV market. This is New Zealand’s most popular segment, and so Kia has many variants to choose from. The Sportage boasts a bold design, practical accommodations and a good safety fit out. There are a range of engine options and spec grades to suit diverse needs.
Kia Sportage NZ line-up
There are petrol, diesel and hybrid options in the Sportage line-up, and the choice of two- and four-wheel drive. All told, there are 11 Sportage models, with pricing starting at just over $40k for the LX Urban. These entry-level models are front drivers with a 115kW/192Nm 2.0-litre petrol using a six-speed auto. The turbos, a 1.6 petrol with 132kW/265Nm and a 2.0-litre diesel with 137kW/426Nm, gain the option of AWD, the 1.6 using a seven-speed twin-clutch and the diesel utilising an eight-speed auto. These range in price from $49k to $64k. There is also a hybrid version, which runs a 1.6T petrol matched with a 44kW motor for a combined output of 169kW and 350Nm. This is priced at the $54k mark.
Even the entry level Sportage is well equipped, most models have a 12-inch touchscreen and all have CarPlay and Android Auto, some offering wireless integration.
Top models gain extras like powered, heated and leather clad seats, a powered sunroof, bi-LED lighting, a premium sound system, surround view monitor and wireless charge pad.
What is the Sportage’s safety rating?
All Sportage models have a five-star ANCAP rating, tested to 2022 standards. Safety features include added crash avoidance systems, actively steering or braking the Sportage to help prevent an accident. The active cruise, complete with stop and go, is easy to operate. Also fitted are lane keeping assist, blind spot monitoring and plenty of air bags.
A practical family SUV
Sportage looks sharp, the front end with its distinctive light signature, the rear treatment smart too. It’s about as dynamic as you can make a run-of-the-mill medium SUV look.
New Sportage is now much larger than the old model, which translates to more passenger space all around. Three kids across the back seat is no problem and the boot area is generous, the well formed hold swallowing up the grocery shop and all the kids’ stuff. For a connected lifestyle, the charge pad, USB, USB-c and 12V plugs are all easily accessible. Plus there’s plenty of cabin storage.
Sportage real world fuel use
As to fuel use, the 2.0-litre model will consume around 9-10L/100km in real world use (quoted average being 8.1L/100km). The diesel model is good for around 7-8L100km (claim 6.3L/100km), while the hybrid will return 6L/100km (5.4L/100km the official figure). We like the hybrid model best for its mix of easy electric torque, big range (700km to a tank) and lower overall emissions thanks to its ability to switch off its engine regularly, especially in traffic. For towing, the diesel has a higher rating with max of 1900kg, while the others are rated to 1650kg braked.
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Author
Kyle has been reviewing cars since starting at NZ Autocar magazine in 2003 and has been editor since 2009. In that time he’s become an expert on what makes for a good vehicle while also gaining insights into the local automotive industry.
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