Kia Sportage 2021– review: a mainstream crossover that really sells

Kia Sportage 2021- рр. — is not one car, but in fact two different stages of the model. If we talk about the current meaning of Sportage on the market, what matters is the U.S. version for 2023-2025: the fifth generation, a larger cabin, a big trunk, a base 2.5-liter gasoline engine, and two hybrid options. It is this version that made Sportage one of the most noticeable mainstream crossovers in its class.

The logic of this model is simple: maximum everyday convenience, solid ergonomics, plenty of space in the second row, and a calm character on the move. But it’s important not to mix 2021-2022 with 2023-2025: these are different generations, and the technical figures below apply specifically to the newer vehicle for the U.S. market.

The model and its place in the market

In its class, Sportage sits between a plain family crossover and a vehicle that aims to offer a bit more space and equipment than you expect from the mass segment. People don’t choose it for sportiness, but because it covers everyday tasks without exotic quirks: city driving, kids, shopping, trips out of town, and sometimes light towing.

Who it suits: those who need a roomy cabin, a large trunk, and a straightforward driving position. Who it doesn’t: those expecting the best acceleration in the base version or wanting the lowest fuel consumption without moving to a hybrid.

Generations and model history

For the “2021-” topic, the key nuance is that in 2021-2022 many markets were still selling the previous Sportage. Meanwhile, the fifth generation for the U.S. launched as the 2023 model year, and it’s the one shaping today’s perception of the model.

Engines and transmissions

The base gasoline version has a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 187 hp and 241 N·m. The transmission is an 8-speed automatic, with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. It’s a calm, predictable setup, but it doesn’t make the Sportage feel quick.

Next come two versions that genuinely change the character of the car. The hybrid uses a 1.6-liter turbo engine and delivers a combined 227 hp and 350 N·m, while the plug-in hybrid makes 261 hp and the same 350 N·m. Both use a 6-speed automatic; on the plug-in hybrid, all-wheel drive is standard, and charging from 240 V takes about 2 hours.

Body, dimensions, and chassis

In terms of body, the current Sportage has grown and become one of the roomiest in its segment. For the gasoline version, length is 4661 mm, width 1864 mm, and wheelbase 2756 mm. Height depends on trim: 1661 mm for the front-wheel-drive version without roof rails and 1679 mm for the all-wheel-drive version.

The practically important figures here are: ground clearance of 180 mm for the front-wheel-drive gasoline Sportage or 211 mm for the all-wheel-drive version, trunk volume 649 L behind the second row and 1214 L with it folded, and a turning radius of 5.9 m. That’s enough for rough roads, but it’s still an urban crossover, not a vehicle for serious off-roading.

Interior, comfort, and safety

The interior is one of the Sportage’s main arguments. It’s quiet, the seats provide solid support, and the second row is truly suitable for adults rather than just “in case.” The large trunk adds real value to the model as a family vehicle.

On safety, the package is strong: the vehicle includes ten driver-assistance systems. But on the used market, it’s important to look beyond options. For some 2023-2025 vehicles there were service campaigns, including for roof component fasteners, the brake booster, and certain electronics, so checking the service history and the vehicle identification number is a must.

Everyday use

In the city, the Sportage is convenient thanks to a big cabin without the penalty of clumsy maneuverability: a 5.9 m turning radius is normal for this size. The gasoline version uses about 8.4 L per 100 km in combined driving with front-wheel drive and 9.4 L per 100 km with all-wheel drive, so you can’t call it economical.

The hybrid is much more appealing in daily life: around 5.5-6.2 L per 100 km in the combined cycle and better pull off the line. The plug-in hybrid only makes sense when there’s regular charging; otherwise its advantage shrinks quickly. For trips with gear, the Sportage is also good because the gasoline version can tow up to 1134 kg with trailer brakes, and the hybrids — up to 907 kg.

Strengths and weaknesses

The pros and cons here are fairly straightforward: the Sportage wins on space and convenience, but it doesn’t beat everyone in acceleration, efficiency, or the refinement of small details. That’s why it’s important to choose not just the model, but the right powertrain and the condition of a specific vehicle.

Tuning and accessories

The point of tuning for the Sportage is not to turn it into an off-roader, but to tailor it to everyday use. First of all, that’s protection for the cabin and trunk; next — small things like window deflectors or a roof rack if the car regularly carries equipment.

On the model page, it makes sense to start not with décor, but with accessories that actually work every day.

What to check out for this model

• Rubber floor mats — a basic item for the city, winter, and family use, when dust and moisture show up daily.
• Rubber trunk mat — useful if the trunk regularly carries kids’ items, tools, groceries, or dirty gear.

If the car often goes on vacations, it’s worth taking a separate look at roof cargo solutions. Heavy decorative body kits for this model usually provide less benefit than they seem to in photos.

Conclusion

The current-generation Kia Sportage is a strong fit for those who need a spacious, straightforward family crossover for daily use. The gasoline version is an option for calm driving, and if you want better pull and lower consumption, the hybrid is the one to look at. This material is based on real selection experience, practice, and real-world usage scenarios — and it’s in those scenarios that the Sportage looks most convincing: not as a car for flashy numbers, but as a comfortable everyday vehicle.