The 2017 Kia Sportage lasts around 150,000 miles with serious engine and transmission issues reported. At $13,900 to $19,900, it’s cheap, but still not worth the money when you’ll wind up spending thousands fixing problems as it ages.
Is the 2017 Kia Sportage a Good Used SUV?
- Overall Rating 7/10 – 2017 is a bad year for the Kia Sportage since there are tons of mechanical problems, making it one to avoid. Owner reviews complain about expensive repairs, a firm suspension, and sudden breakdowns while driving.
- Interior, Comfort & Cargo 8/10 – Interior materials are more luxurious than many competitors, the seats are comfortable, although cargo space is slightly limited.
- Reliability 6/10 – There are a lot of serious engine problems found on the 2017 Kia Sportage. Avoid models from 2017–2018, and go with a 2019–2022 which are more dependable.
- Performance 7/10 – Performance is okay from either of the four-cylinder engine options, although they’re not as fast as some of the other small SUVs on the market.
- Safety 8/10 – The 2017 Sportage is safe, earning a perfect 5-star rating in government crash tests. It comes standard with a rearview camera. Optional upgrades include automatic emergency braking, lane change assist, along with pedestrian detection.
- Gas Mileage 7/10 – Fuel economy is okay at up to 23 MPG, giving 377 miles of range from the 16.4 gallon tank. Gas costs are $6 higher than average, at $225 per month.
- Value 7/10 – The 2017 Kia Sportage is cheaper than many other SUVs on the market, although it has a lot of widespread engine problems, making it a bad value out of warranty.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Do Critics Say About the Kia Sportage?
- Consumer Reports says the 2017 Kia Sportage offers more civilized road manners than earlier models, with average owner satisfaction scores as it ages.
- Edmunds rates the Sportage at 4.3/5, enjoying the smooth suspension, but doesn’t like the relatively low fuel economy.
- Kelley Blue Book users give the Sportage a 4.5/5, praising all of the latest safety features, but owners don’t like the limited room in the rear seats.
What Common Problems Does the 2017 Kia Sportage Have?
Common problems found on the 2017 Kia Sportage include engine failures, the transmission slipping out of gear, along with broken window regulators. Overall, these problems are worse than other small SUVs on the market, leading to higher repair bills as the Sportage ages.
Engine failures are the most widespread and serious complaint from 2017 Sportage owners, showing up at around 90,000 miles. The problem is very widespread across many Kia models from this year. If you catch the engine failure before the warranty expires then Kia will replace it for free. If it’s out of warranty, then a new engine costs over $5,000.
The transmission slipping out of gear is another problem found on the 2017 Sportage at around 40,000 miles. The problem is usually caused by damage to the gears inside of the transmission. Some owners can have the transmission rebuilt for around $2,000, while others replace it for $3,500.
Broken window regulators have also been reported on some Sportage models at roughly 45,000 miles. If your windows do not roll up and down normally, then it’s usually a sign of a problem with the regulator. Replacing the window motor and regulator fixes the problem, and costs around $450, depending on local labor rates.
There are four recalls on the 2017 Kia Sportage, which is similar to other SUVs on the market. The most serious recall is for a potential engine compartment fire caused by the hydraulic electric control unit (HECU). Kia will replace the HECU on affected models for free. Other recalls cover a towing hitch harness fire, along with a high pressure fuel pipe leak. Kia will also replace those parts for free.
How Long Will the 2017 Kia Sportage Last?
A well-maintained 2017 Kia Sportage can last around 150,000 miles, which is only half as long as the popular Toyota RAV4. Regular annual maintenance costs are similar to other compact SUVs, according to data provided by Repair Pal, at $359 per year.
As a used 2017 Sportage reaches 100,000 miles, and depending on the vehicle history, owners should be prepared to replace the windshield washer fluid reservoir for $175, timing belt tensioner costing $400, along with the brake master cylinder which costs over $500.
None that I have been able to find. Quite the opposite, it is one of the best cars I have ever purchased and it is my second Kia.
No issues very reliable vehicle had it 2 years no problems runs great everything works great no issues with navigation or backup camera.
It is reliable but it jerks a lot and revs up after some time and not as much trunk space as I thought.
I haven't had any issues other than a flat tire. I have taken it in for a recall issue but that's all.
It is very reliable, I have had no issues with it. It’s a very good family vehicle. Maintenance is a little pricey as it takes full synthetic oil
No problems for the almost 3 years and 47,000 miles... The only repairs I have had to do is replace seat belt sensor...
It is reliable. The gas meter is always accurate, I've never run out of fuel. The car alerts you if any tires have dangerous or abnormal pressures, which is great for car noobs like me, as I wouldn’t be checking otherwise. No real problems, it’s just not super high end.
Yes, it’s very reliable. I've had no issues with it in the past two years. It requires minimal maintenance.
How Is the Technology?
Entertainment technology is decent, offering a standard 5-inch touchscreen stereo system. Optional upgrades include a larger touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Standard safety technology is okay, offering a rearview camera.
Optional driver assistance features include:
- Lane departure warning
- Automatic emergency braking
- Pedestrian detection
- Front parking sensors
- Rear parking sensors
- Blind spot monitoring
- Lane change assist
- Rear cross traffic alert
Is the 2017 Kia Sportage a Good Value?
No, the 2017 Kia Sportage is a bad value since there are a lot of engine failures reported, making it more expensive to own than other SUVs. The blue book fair purchase price ranges from $13,900 to $19,900, making it less than a Subaru Crosstrek or Honda CR-V. When new, the price range was $23,200 to $34,200. Depreciation is worse than other SUVs, losing about 15% of its current value per year.
What are the Different Models of the Kia Sportage?
There are three models of the 2017 Kia Sportage offered, from the entry-level LX all the way through to the more powerful SX Turbo. The Sportage comes standard with front-wheel drive, while all-wheel drive is available as an optional upgrade.
LX is the entry-level model with:
- 17-inch alloy wheels
- LED running lights and automatic headlights
- Rear privacy-tinted windows
- Tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel
- Rear climate vents
- 60/40-split folding rear seatbacks
- 5-inch touchscreen display
- Bluetooth connectivity
- Six-speaker sound system with USB port, auxiliary input jack, and satellite radio
- Popular package option: adds roof rails, heated mirrors, windshield-wiper de-icer, power driver’s seat, heated front seats, and illuminated vanity mirrors
- Cool and Connected package option: adds 7-inch touchscreen with Uvo and automatic climate control
EX is a step up, adding:
- 18-inch wheels
- Fog Lights, heated mirrors, and roof rails
- Gloss-black grille and windshield-wiper de-icer
- Dual illuminated vanity mirrors
- Keyless entry and ignition
- Leather upholstery and heated front seats
- Eight-way power driver seat (with power lumbar)
- Leather-wrapped steering wheel
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
- Rear USB charging port
- 7-inch touchscreen with latest version of Kia’s Uvo infotainment system (including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto)
- Premium package option: adds panoramic sunroof, power-folding mirrors, auto-dimming, rearview mirror, LED interior lighting, and heated steering wheel
- Technology package option: adds automatic high beams, hands-free power tailgate, ventilated front seats, power passenger seat, 8-inch touchscreen, and Harman Kardon audio system
SX Turbo is the flagship model which has:
- 19-inch wheels
- Adaptive xenon headlights, automatic high beams, LED fog lights, and taillights
- Power-folding mirrors with LED turn signals
- Sport-tuned suspension
- Hands-free power tailgate
- Panoramic sunroof and LED interior lighting
- Auto-dimming rearview mirror
- Heated flat-bottom steering wheel with paddle shifters
- Upgraded driver information display
- Eight-way power passenger seat
- Ventilated front seats, dashboard accent stitching, and gloss-black interior accents
- 8-inch touchscreen interface with a navigation system
- Eight-speaker Harman Kardon audio system
What Engines Come In the Kia Sportage?
The 2017 Kia Sportage comes with two different engine options:
- The base engine is a 4-liter four-cylinder that produces 181 horsepower while getting 23 MPG. This engine comes paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. The 0-60 mph time with this engine is around 9.2 seconds.
- The more powerful option is a 0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that delivers 240 horsepower at up to 21 MPG. This engine also uses a six-speed automatic transmission. The 0-60 mph time for the turbocharged engine is quicker, at around 6.7 seconds.
What Colors Does the Kia Sportage Come In?
How Comfortable Is the Kia Sportage?
The 2017 Kia Sportage places a strong emphasis on comfort, making it a pleasant choice for both short drives and long journeys. The SUV offers a smooth and quiet ride, thanks to its well-tuned suspension that absorbs most road imperfections, and noise insulation that keeps wind and tire noise at bay. The seats in the Sportage are supportive and comfortable. Both the front and back seats provide ample legroom and headroom, accommodating taller passengers comfortably.
The driver’s seat includes power adjustment features in higher trims for personalized comfort. The high-quality materials used in the cabin, from soft-touch surfaces to the durable upholstery, add to the overall comfort and luxury feel. Additionally, the easy-to-use infotainment system and the logical layout of controls contribute to a stress-free driving experience. Whether it’s for city commuting or cross-country road trips, the 2017 Kia Sportage delivers a level of comfort that is a standout in its class.
How Much Storage Space Does the Kia Sportage Have?
The 2017 Kia Sportage offers a generous amount of storage space for a compact SUV. With all seats in place, you get 30.7 cubic feet of cargo space. That’s enough room to comfortably fit several pieces of luggage, sports equipment like a couple of golf bags, or a full load of groceries. If you need to transport large items or go on an extended road trip, the rear seats fold down to expand the cargo area to an impressive 60.1 cubic feet.
This extra room could accommodate larger items like a bicycle, a small piece of furniture, or even a flat-screen TV. So, whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, moving into a new apartment, or just running errands, the 2017 Kia Sportage can handle a lot of cargo.
What Are the Differences Between Years?
The fourth generation of the Kia Sportage was introduced for the 2017 model year.
2015: Minor reshuffling of available options packages.
2016: Touchscreen added to LX Popular Package, standard leather on EX and SX models.
2017: Fully redesigned for the fourth generation with new, exterior, interior, technology, and engines.
2018: New stain-resistant cloth upholstery, along with available EX Sport Appearance package.
2019: No major changes from earlier years.
2020: Minor styling changes, more standard safety features, and a standard 8-inch touchscreen.
2021: S Sunroof and Premium packages replaced by the Nightfall and Nightfall Edition Premium packages.
How Does the Kia Sportage Compare to the Competition?
The 2017 Kia Sportage is a bad compact SUV since it suffers from serious engine and transmission problems as it ages, making it one buyers should avoid on the used market, especially when it’s out of warranty.
The Hyundai Tucson is a competitor which is available for about $1,000 more. Both the Kia Sportage and Hyundai Tucson are built on the same platform, although interior materials are better in the Hyundai Tucson. We recommend avoiding both models for 2017 since they suffer from the same mechanical problems.
The Toyota RAV4 is another small SUV which is around $3,500 more. Long-term reliability ratings are much better in the Toyota RAV4, while the Kia Sportage has a slightly nicer interior. We recommend the Toyota RAV4 since they last longer, and are more affordable to own as they age.
Do Owners Recommend the Kia Sportage?
Yes. It is comfortable, stable, easy to enter and exit and has many features I appreciate. It has a smooth ride, heated seats (I love them) and hands free for my cell phone.
Yes awesome SUV great vehicle does awesome in snow great luxury vehicle heated and cooling seats panoramic sunroof remote start very dependable great gas mileage.
Kind of is, kind of is not because it revs up for no reason sometimes and jerks every so often so it scares me.
Very good for my family. Big enough for trips but not too big for in town. Drives smooth and easy to clean.
Yes, it has good gas mileage and is very reliable. It drives smooth. Owned it for 3 months but have had no issues
Great, It's comfortable and responsive to emergency situations along with good gas mileage. Styling is also a plus...
Yeah! It’s pretty cool! It’s easy handling and a pleasure to drive. It can connect to my phone and most importantly, it has a backup camera, which I use everytime I drive.
Yes it handles well and is very comfortable. It gets decent mileage and handles well in snow. I like the size of it as well.