#17

in Affordable Compact SUVs

Based on analysis of 49 Sportage reviews and test drives.

MSRP: $16,995 - $23,495
Invoice: $16,660 - $22,060
MPG: 20 City / 25 Hwy
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U.S.News Scores

Overall:7.7
Performance:6.9
Exterior:8.1
Interior:7.3
Safety:9.9
Reliability:6.0
Research we analyzed for this review
Pros and Cons
  • Responsive steering and handling
  • Stylish interior is roomier than most compact SUVs
  • Great bargain for its class
  • Lengthy powertrain warranty
  • Lackluster performance from the base engine
  • Insurance industry crash test scores are low for its class

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Kia Sportage - What the Auto Press Says

The 2010 Kia Sportage ranks 17 out of 24 Affordable Compact SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 49 published reviews and test drives of the Kia Sportage, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

The Sportage is a great value within its class. Not only does it boast quality materials, driving dynamics and styling that rival leading SUVs -- it also costs thousands less than competitors and features generous warranties.

The 2010 Sportage surprises with its style and refinement. However, several reviewers still cite its underpowered base engine as a low point. Its overall value is also undermined by its fuel economy, which is only about average for its class. "It's not quite in the same league as the Honda CR-V, the Toyota RAV4, and the Ford Escape, but the Sportage has a nicely packaged interior and lots of standard features for the money," writes Automobile Magazine.

Other SUVs to Consider

For better fuel economy and more powerful engine choices, consider the Toyota RAV4 -- but remember that you'll be paying a premium for the extra power. Also consider the Hyundai Tucson, the Sportage's platform-mate, which boasts slightly better fuel economy.

Details: Kia Sportage

The 2010 Sportage comes in base LX or EX trim, along with optional all-wheel drive. Since the 2009 and 2010 models are nearly identical, this review uses research from both model years.

  • "Although the vehicle has to be returned to Kia before summer's end, after all those kilometers spent behind the wheel, the experience was a positive one in general. It's not the best in all aspects, but its overall balance, its high quality for the price and a versatile sound system are definite pros." -- The Car Guide
  • "Lots of standard equipment, decent road manners, good cargo versatility, and a generous warranty make Sportage worth a look." -- Consumer Guide.
  • "While the Sportage sets no new benchmarks in performance or handling, it's hard to ignore the fit, finish, and amenities it offers -- for $1000 to $2000 less than other entry-level SUVs on the market." --Motor Trend.
  • "Sportage is a huge and mainly pleasant surprise from Kia." -- USA Today

Sportage Performance - 6.9 (Mediocre)

Test drivers praise the Sportage's handling and V6 engine option. On the road, the Sportage "provides a carlike ride and relatively sporty handling that makes it a little more fun to drive than many other compact SUVs," says Edmunds. It's capable of being both a good city runabout and a long-distance highway cruiser." However, most test drivers find the SUV's base four-cylinder engine on the sluggish side. Luckily, a V6 option only tacks on $1,000 to the Sportage's base price. Read More

Sportage Exterior - 8.1 (Very Good)

The automotive press finds the 2010 Sportage's exterior cute for an SUV, although it doesn't particularly stand out within its class. "Overall the Sportage gets good marks for a clean and functional exterior look that will not offend anyone and yet has a beguiling look that belies its low cost," writes New Car Test Drive. Read More

Sportage Interior - 7.3 (Good)

The 2010 Kia Sportage surprises many with upscale features, easy-to-use controls, and comfortable seating. However, cabin quality still isn't up to par with top competitors such as the Honda CR-V. "It stops just short of looking cheap, but overall, Sportage trails most of its rivals.," says Consumer Guide. A plus is the standard rear cargo under-floor storage. Read More

Sportage Safety - 9.9 (Excellent)

The 2010 Kia Sportage does quite well in federal government crash tests, but doesn't fare well in insurance industry crash tests. The Sportage's safety equipment includes electronic stability control. Read More

Sportage Reliability - 6.0 (Mediocre)

The 2010 Kia Sportage reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). Like Hyundai, Kia offers a class-leading five-year/60,000-mile limited basic warranty as well as a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty. Read More

Review Last Updated: 5/13/10