Things we like
- Captivating looks
- 7-year warranty
- Luxurious interior
- Comfortable ride and handling
Not so much
- Sensitive lane-keep system
- Underpowered 2.0L petrol engine
- No wireless Apple Carplay/Android Auto
The fifth-generation Kia Sportage launched in 2021 with their entry-level and top-spec variants. The middle of the range, SX and SX+ however, were are delayed until early 2022.
Since having arrived on our shores they have proved vital in the Sportage range, filling the gap between the S and GT-Line grades.
A consistently popular model in the medium SUV category, the Kia Sportage offers versatility and comfort, in an eye-catching package.
Pricing and features
The SX variant– the second step in the Sportage lineup– starts from $35,350 before on-road costs for the manual transmission.
Opting for the automatic adds $2000. Both versions harness a 2.0-litre petrol engine, delivering 115kW and 192Nm. Essentially, you're looking at high 30's to early 40's pricing for either choice.
A 2.0-litre diesel AWD variant is also available as automatic only for a pricier $42,750 before on-roads and creates 137kW and 416Nm. The diesel is much punchier and uses less fuel than its petrol counterparts.
The SX+ sits above starting at $41,850, and is available in the same 2.0-litre petrol 2WD and diesel AWD offerings.
A new option is available when jumping to the SX+ which is the 1.6-litre turbo engine with a dual clutch transmission increasing petrol power and torque to 132kW/265Nm.
Standard across the Sportage range you'll get:
Adaptive Cruise control | Heated, power-adjusted side mirrors |
Alloy wheels | LED daytime running lights |
Android Auto and Apple CarPlay | Rear parking sensors |
Auto-dimming rear-view mirror | Reversing camera |
Automatic headlamps | Roof rails |
Bluetooth connectivity | Second-row air vents |
Climate control air-conditioning | Seven airbags |
Colour touchscreen | Shark fin antenna |
Front fog-lamps |
The SX loses wireless phone mirroring but adds:
17-inch alloy wheels | LED tail-lights (with indicator bulb) |
4.2-inch digital instrument cluster | Power-adjustable, heated and auto-folding exterior mirrors |
8-inch infotainment system | Rear air vents |
Adaptive cruise control (automatic only) | Rear view camera |
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (wireless) | Single-zone climate control |
Automatic headlights | Six-speaker audio system |
Cloth upholstery | Six-way manually-adjustable driver’s seat |
Leather-wrapped steering wheel | Two USB charging ports (1x USB-A, 1x USB-C) |
LED daytime running lights | Tyre pressure monitoring. |
LED headlights (reflector) |
The SX+ gains further features, including:
19-inch alloy wheels | LED front fog lights |
Auto-dimming rear-view mirror | Hands-free powered tailgate |
Smart key remote and push-button start (petrol only) | Rear privacy glass |
Synthetic leather seats with eight-way powered driver’s seat adjustment | Steering wheel paddle shifters |
Heated front seats | Eight-speaker Harman Kardon premium sound system |
Safety
The entire Sportage range is covered by a 5-star ANCAP rating, based on its recent 2022 testing.
It achieved an 87% score for adult occupant protection, 87% for child occupant protection and 74% for its safety assist features such as lane keep assist and autonomous emergency braking.
The Sportage comes equipped with a comprehensive list of safety features such as rear cross traffic alert, safe exit assist, speed limit assist and lead vehicle departure alert.
In terms of servicing, both the 2.0-litre petrol and diesel variants require a visit to the dealership every 12 months or 15,000 kilometres, whichever occurs first.
The 1.6-litre turbo requires servicing at a shorter 12-month/10,000km interval.
Key rivals
With 21 individual models in the mainstream medium SUV segment there are plenty of competitors to the Sportage. The most notable include:
- Toyota RAV4
- Hyundai Tucson
- Mazda CX-5
- Mitsubishi Outlander
- Nissan X-Trail
- Subaru Forester
- Volkswagen Tiguan
Should I put it on my shortlist?
The 2023 Kia Sportage SX and SX+ is a well-rounded option for those who are after some added creature comforts over the entry Sportage S.
Both offer a balanced mix of design, features and value.
If you're seeking a dependable SUV that doesn't compromise on modern essentials, the Sportage is definitely worth a closer look.
Things we like
- Captivating looks
- 7-year warranty
- Luxurious interior
- Comfortable ride and handling
Not so much
- Sensitive lane-keep system
- Underpowered 2.0L petrol engine
- No wireless Apple Carplay/Android Auto
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