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2023 Kia Sportage
Starting at $27.615
Highs Spacious cabin, forgiving ride, generous list of standard and optional tech features.
Lows Four-cylinder could use a bit more power, boring driving dynamics, exterior styling isn't for everyone.
Verdict The new Sportage proves it has what it takes to compete with segment stalwarts and does so with flair.
Overview
The 2023 Kia Sportage separates itself from the throng of compact crossovers with its extroverted styling. The Kia's unconventional face features a set of alien-looking headlights and a distinct grille design. Its bolder bodywork is also dimensionally bigger than before, which translates to more cargo space and a roomier interior. Inside, the new Sportage is both attractive and packed with tech that includes a massive dash-mounted screen. Motivation comes from a 187-hp four-cylinder, but a hybrid and a plug-in-hybrid are also offered (reviewed separately). Competition is tough from segment stalwarts such as the Mazda CX-5 and the Honda CR-V, but the 2023 Sportage proves it has more to offer than just a wild-looking exterior.
What's New for 2023?
The Sportage enters a new generation for the 2023 model year and shares its platform, technology, and powertrains with the Hyundai Tucson, which was redesigned for 2022.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
LX: $27,615
EX: $29,615
X-Line: $32,415
SX: $33,115
SX Prestige: $35,115
X-Pro: $36,615
X-Pro Prestige: $38,415
The mid-range EX appears to offer the most value here, adding desirable features such as the larger 12.3-inch infotainment screen, wireless smartphone charging, and heated front seats.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The Sportage's default powertrain is a 187-hp 2.5-liter four-cylinder that mates to an eight-speed automatic transmission and either front- or all-wheel drive. We sampled both the base four-cylinder and the hybrid powertrain during our initial test drive and were more satisfied with the latter than the former. At our test track, the nonhybrid Sportage needed 8.6 seconds to hit 60 mph versus only 7.4 seconds for the hybrid. The Sportage rides on a new platform with a longer wheelbase than the previous generation and ride comfort is improved as a result. The introduction of rugged-looking trims such as the X-Line gives the compact ute an off-road vibe, but the X-Pro actually has some equipment to help tackle the rough stuff. It rides on black 17-inch rims and all-terrain tires, and features a selection of drive modes.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
The Sportage is rated for 25 mpg city and 32 mpg highway when equipped with front-wheel drive; all-wheel drive models are rated for 23 mpg city and 28 mpg highway by the EPA. We haven't yet taken the Sportage on our 75-mph fuel-economy route, but when we do we'll update this story with test results. For more information about the Sportage's fuel economy, visit the EPA's website.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
Inside, the Sportage makes an impression with a snazzy design highlighted by a huge digital display on the dashboard and other various eye-catching details. The interior is available in an attractive two-tone color scheme as an option, but if you prefer an all-black cabin that's available too. The center console boasts a rotary shift knob, a push-to-start button, and a myriad of other controls that blend into the piano-black bezel. Thanks to bigger dimensions overall as well as a longer wheelbase, the Sportage has more rear-seat legroom and 40 cubic feet of cargo space behind the back seat. There's also a dual-level cargo floor for even more versatility.
Infotainment and Connectivity
On the infotainment front, the Sportage comes standard with desirable features such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. An 8.0-inch infotainment display is standard and all models come with a digital gauge display, too. We'd suggest upgrading to the larger infotainment display, though, which measures 12.3 inches in diameter and provides more connectivity and crisper graphics. There are also neat touch-sensitive controls below the infotainment interface that alternate between the climate system and the stereo. An upgraded Harman/Kardon unit is available as well as a wireless phone charger and a subscription-based Wi-Fi hotspot.
Read More www.caranddriver.com/kia/spor...
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