2017 Kia Sportage Review: Unreliable Small SUV With Expensive Repair Costs

Alex Showalter
Jun 16, 2023

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.

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likeFilled The Good
The cabin is very quiet, the seating is comfortable and the steering is responsive and sporty for an SUV.
dislikeFilled The Bad
Cargo space isn’t as good as the competition, the engines are not quick and ownership costs get very high 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 20172018, and go with a 20192022 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

accountCircle WANDA S
It's comfortable but compact and easy to manage. It has a lot of technology. It's fuel efficient and maintenance is low cost.
It's a very good value for the cost and very easy to maintain.
accountCircle Rachel F
Good features, only one minor issue.
The backup camera has really been a lifesaver. I was used to driving a smaller vehicle before, and having this as a standard feature really helped in acclimating myself to backing it up. The seats are spacious and comfortable, with enough arm room in between so that my boyfriend and I do not feel like we're cramped in together. The one problem I have had with the vehicle is that the steering column tends to lock up when I turn it off and the wheels are not perfectly straight. Other than that, it is fairly fuel-efficient, especially with the option to switch to "eco" mode, which lowers some performance, but really saves on fuel. The media package was exactly what I was looking for without going overboard, and I love the built-in Bluetooth capability. It makes taking calls on the road a breeze.
accountCircle Meg L
The Amazing Kia Sportage.
I love my car. It is reliable, comfy and has great gas mileage. I would definitely recommend this car. I have the full sunroof and my son loves to stare out at the rain or stars. The heated seats and steering wheel are wonderful in the winter. The car won't let you lock the keys in the car which is perfect for me
accountCircle JEN L
Reliable and roomy with modern features such as USB chargers
Spacious - has a lot of legroom and trunk space. Very reliable and good gas mileage. I average about 30 miles to the gallon on freeway and 28 miles to the gallon local roads. Has very comfortable seating and good visibility from rear and side mirrors.
accountCircle Susan G
My car is a copper color that is unique. I get compliments on it all the time.
I have had no performance problems with my Kia. It is sporty looking and fun to drive. I am leasing it and would totally lease the same make and model again. When I take it in for maintenance, they are very helpful and friendly. In the three years I have had it the only problem I have had was the tire pressures go low in the cold.
accountCircle Kevin B
Overall very high quality.
It's the perfect size for me. Still gets good gas mileage and able to load bigger items if necessary. Looks nice. Comfortable. I wish it had just a little more power but no big deal.
accountCircle Lindsy W
Larger, but still compact car.
I love this car. I traded in my Kia forte for this Kia Sportage to have a little larger car with 4 wheel drive. It is still compact enough to be considered a compact car, but we have loved the amount of room that we gained. My car has apple CarPlay in it, which I highly recommend as it makes making calls, sending texts, and getting audio to the car very easy and even better, very safe. I highly recommend this car. I go up to the mountains frequently and the amount of safety I feel now is incredible.
accountCircle Allison G
Great SUV good on gas and the price was right.
I just love the way it rides seats are comfortable have a lot of room. I like that it is reliable and it is good on gas.

Negative Owner Reviews

accountCircle Tracy G
My 2017 Kia Sportage and my thoughts on it is performance.
Good car but the monthly payments are ridiculous. I keep having tire pressure issues. Engine light always comes on and there have been several recalls. While it is comfortable, I would love to get something else with a lower payment. The gas mileage is good though.
accountCircle Taylor G
Before and after being rear ended in an accident.
I loved my car before my wreck. I had a girl rear end me about two years ago and it has not driven the same since. I do not know whether to attribute that to Kias actual mechanics that worked on the rear end of my vehicle or to the whole construction of said vehicle.
accountCircle Norm McGillivray
Skid control valve making a clunking noise when resetting.ing
When making a sharp left or right turn from a stop, upon reaching 29 kph speed, the skid control valve makes a clunk noise when resetting because it thought the car was skidding & it activated. The dealer replaced the valve, then apologized because the new valve made the same noise as did another 2017 on their car lot. The 2016, 2017 & 2018 all use the same skid control valve & I was told that I will just have to live with the noise. No response from KIA!
accountCircle Heather P
The Kia Sportage is not worth the money. Find something else. Go Toyota.
It has a rough and bumpy ride. The Bluetooth connections are complicated. The gas mileage is not great. The seating uncomfortable. My kids hate the ride because there is not enough room for seating. It has a noisy engine. Not at all what I hoped it would be.
accountCircle Joyce G
Reason why I will never get another Kia.
Electrical system lights go on when there is nothing wrong with the car. Transmission races, took it to service and they said not to worry about it. Didn't know what it was. Does not feel safe. Will go back to Honda. Engine continues to race erratically. Not comfortable.
accountCircle Evelyn J
Spacious sporty and comfortable SUV.
All is good- ac is never strong enough. The car rides really well and is very spacious. Great gas mileage and reliable car.
accountCircle Andrew C
Great 2017 Kia Sportage great car for your money.
The 2017 Kia Sportage is a great vehicle. Cheap to keep up in basic maintenance. Just keep up with oil changes and other fluid changes along with tune and it will continue to run the same as it did as day one. Gas mileage is great. Easy to clean. Great storage in the trunk. Lots of foot room on the front and back seats. Parts like air filters windshield wipers are cheap to replace even name brand ones.
accountCircle Caitlin C
Kia Sportage is great but needs some work mechanically
Only a few years old and the automatic windows stopped working and the trunk automatic button doesn't work either. I love Kia but they seems cheaply made and quite a few issues within the main mechanical frame. The air condition also takes awhile to cool the car down

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.

accountCircle Meryll W

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.

accountCircle Chad C

No issues very reliable vehicle had it 2 years no problems runs great everything works great no issues with navigation or backup camera.

accountCircle M X

It is reliable but it jerks a lot and revs up after some time and not as much trunk space as I thought.

accountCircle Annette E

I haven't had any issues other than a flat tire. I have taken it in for a recall issue but that's all.

accountCircle Carole E

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

accountCircle Misty W

No problems for the almost 3 years and 47,000 miles... The only repairs I have had to do is replace seat belt sensor...

accountCircle Courtney T

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.

accountCircle Sarah L

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.

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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.

Ranks #8 Compact SUV by Owners

1
car
4.68
2
car
4.67
8
Tie
car
4.5

Do Owners Recommend the Kia Sportage?

accountCircle Meryll W

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.

accountCircle Chad C

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.

accountCircle M X

Kind of is, kind of is not because it revs up for no reason sometimes and jerks every so often so it scares me.

accountCircle Michelle S

Very good for my family. Big enough for trips but not too big for in town. Drives smooth and easy to clean.

accountCircle Zack L

Yes, it has good gas mileage and is very reliable. It drives smooth. Owned it for 3 months but have had no issues

accountCircle Sarah K

Great, It's comfortable and responsive to emergency situations along with good gas mileage. Styling is also a plus...

accountCircle Courtney C

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.

accountCircle Cheryl L

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.

Owner Reviews

accountCircle Heidi D on June 25, 2021
Sweet silver Kia Sportage!
For the most part it runs good, it does however make a settling sound. I do like the heated seats for the harsh winters here. It has a lot of space for storage. It has a wonderful entertainment package, since my eyesight is not the best it has a big screen for the radio.
accountCircle Daniel M on June 20, 2021
Kia Sportage is a great everyday car.
I am very happy with my Sportage. It is a great everyday vehicle to get me to and from work or to run some errands. The car is comfortable and it drives very well. The only negative I have is that for an SUV it is on the smaller side and can be difficult to fit some bigger items in the back, even with the seats down.
accountCircle Stephanie O on June 10, 2021
Kia Sportage: road trip must.
I love the Kia Sportage. It drives great, has very good visibility. It handles the snow very well. My only problem is that it takes a minute to connect to Bluetooth, but this is not really a problem. You can just plug in the phone. I love using this car for long road trips, because it is very comfortable seating.
accountCircle Jennifer T on June 9, 2021
Kia Sportage great family car or car for solo driving.
Seat belt light recall still not fixed after going to dealership multiple times. The car is great in the snow and glides through it. The drive on long trips is comfortable. Sleek design of the body gives a great look on the road. There is a lot of room inside the car for taller people and leaves plenty of room.
accountCircle Richard S on May 28, 2021
After almost 3 years overall performance has been good.
Overall vehicle runs well and has a lot a interesting gadgets. Only problem is mileage/gas relationship which is not that great, I have had this car for almost 3 years and maintenance has been up to now limited to changing oil and rotate tires. SUV can easily carry 5 people and has plenty of space for carrying luggage and/or goods purchases.
accountCircle Laura S on May 20, 2021
Reliability and luxury features for an affordable price tag.
This vehicle is much more roomy on the inside than it looks! The heated steering wheel and heated leather seats are amazing, and the passenger seat has tons of leg room for long car rides! The car made a 4,000 cross country drive without any problems, which is what I call certified reliability. The extended sunroom is a great luxury feature and there is plenty of trunk space. The back seats fold down for more luggage room. One unique feature is the computer, I can plug my phone into the USB, and it will display my phone's GPS on the screen. I drove this car through the mountains and had no issue with the demands of driving up steep inclines with the sport mode engaged.
accountCircle Rhonda H on May 17, 2021
Backup camera siri’s radio.
Has get pick up on highway, plenty of legroom, love the situs radio and backup camera. Do not like that it does not have enough cargo room needs a little bit more. Like fold that the rear seats fold down to add to cargo room but like I said needs a little bit more.
accountCircle Megan M on May 15, 2021
Amazing features for a slightly older vehicle.
I love my Sportage. It has heated seats/steering wheel, a double moon roof, back up camera and more! It takes a hot minute getting used to the button to turn on your vehicle if you are used to your typical key in the ignition vehicle. All in all, I enjoy this vehicle!
accountCircle Dave M on May 15, 2021
An exceptional value and quality product.
Great value, it's very spacious, great acceleration and excellent on gas. Extremely reliable. It has an excellent entertainment system. Bluetooth system is exceptionally excellent. Very easy to manage. I was surprised that even the tires were reasonable and not oversized. Easily the most consistent vehicle I have owned. I would definitely get another one Kia has proven it makes a quality car.
accountCircle Ginger A on May 14, 2021
Love it, it is just some little things.
Love the car does not seem to be as quiet as it use to. Love that the back seats recline a little. Love the backup camera and the storage in the spare tire well area. Tranny seems to be slipping a bit. The downgrade does not seem to engage like it is suppose to. Roomy. Love the color, wish had a sunroof though. Good overall car, not made for off paved, onto rough, hole filled Oklahoma dirt roads.
accountCircle Cory H on May 9, 2021
The perfect size: a mid sized family car that provides room to grow.
The vehicle has tons of storage but when friends and family are in the vehicle we don't feel too far apart. Its roomy but gets great gas mileage. It fits everything you need but you can still park it in the city. The amenities are basic but not distracting from the overall nature of the vehicle.
accountCircle Melanie F on May 5, 2021
The Kia Sportage is a very family friendly, high quality car.
My Kia Sportage has been a very reliable and economical vehicle. It is great on gas and it is a sporty edition. Love the full sunroof. Very family friendly. Never had any mechanical issues. I love the smooth ride and quick stopping distance. I would highly recommend this vehicle.
accountCircle Makayla S on April 25, 2021
All in all, a Kia Sportage is the way to go for professional yet inviting!
My Kia Sportage is great! I am so happy to finally have air conditioning in my car again and be able to drive in the snow. It is very spacious and it looks professional, this is definitely not a car for kids if you want to keep it nice. The engine runs great and so do the tires! I love the tint of the windows it is perfect, not to light or to dark! It's easy to manage and get used to, and the display on the dash tells you the tire pressure constantly! No more guessing! The headlights are nice I can actually see in front of my car now, and I love how all of it is working smoothly!
accountCircle Sara W on April 14, 2021
The Kia Sportage is a fun, easy, low maintenance vehicle!
This vehicle has been very reliable. I have has very few problems with this vehicle. I love the size of this vehicle. It is very comfortable to drive in. My husband is a mechanic and has been very happy with this vehicle. It drives very smooth and nicely. We have taken it on many road trips!
accountCircle Sandra S on April 10, 2021
Smooth ride and roomy inside.
I bought it less than a year ago - pre owned. It's been reliable. No real issues as of yet. I find it very comfortable and roomy inside. Handles well on the highway and I get good gas mileage. Overall performance is a 10. I would definitely recommend this vehicle to other people.
accountCircle Susan N on April 6, 2021
2017 Kia Sportage problems.
It started slowing down and had to be towed to the garage where they ran an update. Then when it happened a second time they replaced the motor. The transmission felt like it was slipping into neutral and then back into drive. The repair shop had to run updates to fix the problem.
accountCircle Olivia M on April 5, 2021
Silver 2017 Kia Sportage owner.
I love the gas mileage! Just hate how it feels so little on the inside. Wish it was a little bigger. One of my biggest pet peeves is the tires take nitrogen so once it start turning cold you have to air up your tires and it is hard to find a place with nitrogen.
accountCircle Tamiya L on April 4, 2021
This vehicle is a great family starter car.
I absolutely love my car! It is literally the perfect size not to big not to small. It is very reliable I haven’t had any real problems and I have had this car since 2016. I would say it is not terrible on gas but it is not the best either. The factory sound system is pretty loud. The car is a great size if your family just consist of husband wife and 2 kids. Car is perfect for road trips near and far.
accountCircle Carol L on April 3, 2021
The Kia Sportage has all of the bells and whistles!
The Kia Sportage is a small SUV. It is a versatile vehicle and can function as a small truck. My car has many options. It has a moonroof, Bluetooth, heated front seats, cooled front seats, backup camera, an excellent sound system, electric windows, And a rear electric back door lift, which is very convenient when you want to open up the back of the car to load in groceries. I have the four-cylinder turbo engine which is extremely fast. My car is a copper color which is very unique and attractive. The Sportage had more options than most cars in its category.
accountCircle Maria A on March 29, 2021
Reliable smooth, gas mileage is awesome!!
We bought the vehicle in 2018, and ever since, we had ZERO problems with our Kia Sportage, it's a great car to go road trip, perfect vehicle for a family like ours, lots of space for the cargo/groceries, we even fold the back seat and put a whole door that we purchased with no problem, very comfy and smooth to drive, overall, we are satisfied with our Kia Sportage, not expensive, and reliable car, all you want in a car to got it from Kia Sportage compact SUV.
accountCircle ronnie f on March 24, 2021
The all wheel drive to get around in any kind of weather
Love the all wheel drive , can drive in any weather, feel safe and secure when driving around town or long distance.
accountCircle Mark H on March 23, 2021
The Sportage is great fun to drive
I like the size and efficiency of my vehicle, and the all wheel drive. I also like the design.
accountCircle James E on March 23, 2021
Distinct car colors, if like me, appreciate varied colors.
It was the color that caught my attention, had not seen this particular color before. It has also been a very good and dependable car so far; been reliable, good and multiple features included in package and pretty much maintenance free, with decent gas mileage.
accountCircle Jasmine G on March 21, 2021
Does really well on gas mileage. Does not cost a lot to fill up the tank.
It is a great car all around! I really enjoy the ease of driving it and all of the technology that is available while driving.
accountCircle Frank S on March 20, 2021
It is comfortable, easy to navigate and offers good visibility.
It is easy to get in and out. Gas mileage equals or exceeds expectation. My wife finds a comfortable for her bad back.
accountCircle Susan G on March 17, 2021
My car is a copper color that is unique. I get compliments on it all the time.
I have had no performance problems with my Kia. It is sporty looking and fun to drive. I am leasing it and would totally lease the same make and model again. When I take it in for maintenance, they are very helpful and friendly. In the three years I have had it the only problem I have had was the tire pressures go low in the cold.
accountCircle Alexandria M on March 15, 2021
Affordable and stylish driving.
My Kia Sportage is a great car. It is cute and really fits me. I always feel safe when driving and it is great on gas. It is also low maintenance which is a plus. Comfortable seating, great ac, and easy to use screen for radio and/or Bluetooth. I must say, this car was worth every penny.
accountCircle Ashton M on March 11, 2021
Just enough SUV without being too much.
This is great car. Has enough space in the trunk for groceries/activities but also does not feel like a huge SUV. Great gas mileage. Comfortable ride. Very reliable. I love the Bluetooth setup and steering wheel controls. This makes it easy to answer the phone if necessary without taking eyes off the road. The only complaint I have about the car is that I feel like it has a lot of road noise. I feel like when I am driving I hear every bump and my tires and the highway during the entire drive. The vehicle itself however, it quiet.
accountCircle Ekaterina C on March 10, 2021
Bang for your buck if needing to rely on a car that can take you on any journey!
I have had no problems with this vehicle whatsoever! The performance driving in Colorado is excellent, handles snow quite well when getting to the mountains. The comfort is always there aside from having leather that is hot during the summer- but that is not such an issue. My car features a huge sunroof that is perfect for ideal weather and stargazing, touch screen dashboard for any GPS and Bluetooth accessibility, and the space in the back for putting a load of stuff at once is perfect. I have done snowboarding and camping with no hassle on bringing everything needed. Recommend this car!
accountCircle Shannon B on March 9, 2021
Lots of great features and details.
What I love about my Kia Sportage is that it has a differential lock so it can be AWD and 4 wheel drive. Also it gets great gas mileage and it is easy to fit a larger car seat in it. It is very comfortable with plenty of legroom in the front and the back. Tall people can fit very comfortably in this vehicle.
accountCircle Kate S on February 25, 2021
Overall safe and reliable!
The vehicle has great safety features. I have noticed technological glitches and when it is cold buttons for the heat and such freeze. I have automatIc door locks and I have noticed that sometimes that glitches as well. The reliability and comfort is great though.
accountCircle Cheyenne L on February 25, 2021
Compact SUV, with a really. Nice turn radius.
I have not had any problems with my car. The features such as Bluetooth, back-up camera are nice. I think my car has a sensor to help alert when I get too close to a car, but I am not sure if the signaling works or if it allows me to get closer than I think. It has a really nice turn radius, making it easier to do u-turns. The seats are really comfortable, but it is a compact SUV so it is not very roomy. I do not have many passengers, so it does not really bother me.
accountCircle Brittany M on February 23, 2021
Spacious but loud sound on startup.
I love the way the inside and outside of my car look so luxurious. I personally have the snow white pearl with the panoramic roof. I love the way it makes the car look. I also love how spacious the front is. Unfortunately there isn't as much room in the back seat of the car, but is definitely manageable for children. Also the trunk has a ton of room and the seats fold completely down which makes for a ton of room. The only negative thing I have to say about the car is the sound on start up. It sounds as if the car is barely going to start and it sounds like it is running hard.
accountCircle Tonya B on February 22, 2021
The Kia Sportage is a great car for all seasons of life.
I love the size of the car. We are empty nesters and it is perfect for just the two of us and also spacious enough for grand babies. The back seats are super comfortable and even recline. Of course the front seats are comfortable also plus heated. Love the heated steering wheel in the winter. It drives smoothly and has a 4 wheel lock in feature. We get a significant amount of snow in the winter and the car handles great with just all weather tires. I was able to put my hullavator kayak racks on the roof and it transports kayaks very well and you barely notice that they are on there unless it is extremely windy. I really cannot say enough great things about this car.
accountCircle Celia F on February 19, 2021
A wheelchair user's guide to a Kia Sportage.
It is adequately reliable and drives smoothly. I like the backup camera included for safety. The gas mileage could be better. I am shorter, and dislike the height of the seats; they need to be adjusted frequently. The back provides ample room for both my wheelchair and groceries.
accountCircle Theresa B on February 18, 2021
It is very safe and very nice to drive. It gets 23 miles to a gallon of gas.
I have a Kia Sportage year 2017. It is black on black. It looks like a new penny when cleaned. It is 4 door with sunroof, all electric with 3 seat compact and black leather seats. The front seats are heated. The wheel covers and bumper are chrome with tolling package.
accountCircle Stephon M on February 16, 2021
Saves on Gas & is reliable
The Kia Sportage is a really nice car with a lot of steering control, with curves and bends. It saves on gas and is a nice car to travel in as far as space. My only dislike about the car is that it hold heat in the summer. The Kia Sportage has nice bright lights at night and nice LED daytime lights.
accountCircle Nancy A on February 14, 2021
I love my fun and attractive car.
It is super comfortable and fun to drive. I have not had it long but I have owned a Kia before and am very happy with my purchase. It is a reliable and attractive car. I would recommend a Sportage or any alia as they are good and reliable. My car also has fun features that I enjoy.
accountCircle Bridget G on February 14, 2021
The perfect car for a small family.
My car is affordable, great quality and reliable. Purchasing this car was easy. My car has an amazing panoramic roof, lots of space, great on gas, perfect for road trips. I have had the car for 4 years and no problems. It has a lot of safe assistance and an awesome stereo for listening to music and connecting to Bluetooth for calls.
accountCircle Tracey W on February 9, 2021
Kia sportage is a great crossover vehicle.
The vehicle is roomy enough for 5. I can get 2 car seats in the backseat and plenty of storage in the very back. The seats are leather for easy cleaning. Very reliable and gets good gas mileage. The navigation is connected to your phone which is good if you have a smartphone.
accountCircle Dee K on February 9, 2021
It is very stylish and easy to drive. There is a control for the heat/AC for the backseat passengers. I have never experienced any mechanical problems.
The heat/AC vents at your feet do not produce enough air to heat or cool your feet. Mechanic looked at it and said that is just the way it is made and there is nothing to do about it. The ride is not smooth. You can feel every bump in the road. This is the second Kia Sportage I have owned and much prefer the 2011 to the 2017. I like the backup camera but liked the back up beeper on the 2011 better.
accountCircle Olivia M on February 6, 2021
Not a soccer mom car but a sporty car.
I love my car. I am 20 years old and take my two brothers to and from football practice so I wanted a big vehicle just not something like a “soccer mom” vehicle. The Kia Sportage is a four door SUV but does not look “mom-ish” at all. Plus it is really good on mpg. I get anywhere between 28-30 mpg in town and 30-35 on interstate.
accountCircle Pamela M on February 6, 2021
On my fifth great Kia vehicle.
The Sportage gets really great gas mileage. It is easy to handle has a great turning radius and I love the electronics package on it. I have owned five different Kia vehicles. I have never had a problem with any of them mechanically I had a Sorento that had 3rd row seating very easy to put up and down. The Sportage is also easy to put the back seat down so you can haul stuff in it.
accountCircle ann M on February 4, 2021
My car is a midair SUV with Bluetooth, psi levels, and drives very well.
I like my car. It runs well and is easy to drive. It has Bluetooth and a good sound system. There is not much I do not like except that I wish it had an automatic start. So that I could turn it on in the winter before I go outside. Other than that I love it.
accountCircle Carrie W on February 2, 2021
Excellent value for a terrific vehicle.
Love the look of my Sportage! Roomy, sporty and comfortable! Enough room in the backseat for 2 car seats and the rear storage area is very roomy. .
accountCircle maria H on February 1, 2021
Awesome fancy car to drive.
I love Kia Sportage drives smoothly, never have a problem with it. I love the sun roof for the summer and road trips. I had a Kia in the past and I cannot complain about their performance and modern look. I cannot complain about this car at all. My last car was 2006 and never gave me any problems, for that reason I decided to buy another Kia and it is this Kia Sportage 2017 with leather seats and sunroof, perfect for kids, because I feel it is easier to take care of the leather seats.
accountCircle Joann P on January 29, 2021
It is worth the money and the warranty. I have owned many.
No complaints I love the way it drives and handles. Have it 2 years no problems. Gas mileage not the best but ok but it is a 6 cylinder. No other complaints.
accountCircle Alejandra G on January 26, 2021
Spacious, comfortable and gas efficient.
The seats are very comfortable, specially the head rest. I like the features for playing music and the radio screen. Something that I do not like is the acceleration pedal, it kind of lags and it is annoyingly to press down on. I like the gas per miles I get. I also like the trunk space.
accountCircle Taylor G on January 23, 2021
Before and after being rear ended in an accident.
I loved my car before my wreck. I had a girl rear end me about two years ago and it has not driven the same since. I do not know whether to attribute that to Kias actual mechanics that worked on the rear end of my vehicle or to the whole construction of said vehicle.
accountCircle Kelly P on January 21, 2021
Overall a good family car, not the best storage.
I really like this car as it is a smaller SUV. I enjoy the reclining feature of the back seats. I was able to recline one side more than the other to make the perfect fit for my daughter's car seat. I wish the trunk was bigger. We often find we do not have enough room for grocery storage or vacation. It's a reliable car, being able to put it in eco mode has saved us money on gas. The fabric seats have held up well against the wear and tear of two young children. Overall a good family car.
avatar Alex Showalter
Alex is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. He brings a wealth of knowledge to Vehicle History as our Staff Writer and has written hundreds of used car reviews helping buyers make informed purchasing decisions. He is a member of the Automotive Press Association, and keeps up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry. Over the years, he has driven hundreds of cars, working on many of them. His mechanical experience evolved from modifying off-road trucks as a teen to focusing on automotive electrical systems as he got older. He now specializes in reviewing used cars as an automotive journalist. Some of his favorite brands are Toyota and BMW. The Toyota Land Cruiser is one of his favorite vehicles of all time since they’re built to last forever and can go anywhere. One of his current cars is a Lexus LX570, built on the same platform as the 200-series Land Cruiser, but it’s a better value in the used market.