Thanks: Greenway Kia of Franklin
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2023 Kia Sportage
Starting at $27.285

Highs Responsive optional hybrid powertrain, forgiving ride, spacious cabin with plenty of tech.
Lows Poky base four-cylinder engine, 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, a 226-hp hybrid powertrain, or a more powerful plug-in-hybrid model with an estimated electric range of 34 miles. 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 offers newly available hybrid and plug-in-hybrid powertrains. The latter addition gives the Kia a competitor to plug-in alternatives such as the Hyundai Tucson plug-in hybrid and the Toyota RAV4 Prime.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
LX. $27,285
LX Hybrid: $28,585
EX: $29,285
X-Line: $32,085
EX Hybrid: $32,285
SX: $32,785
SX Prestige: $34,785
X-Pro: $35,785
SX Prestige Hybrid: $37,485
X-Pro Prestige: $38,085
X Line Hybrid: $39,785
X Line Prestige Hybrid: $44,285

We'd suggest the optional hybrid powertrain, as it feels more responsive on the road and offers improved fuel economy as a bonus. The mid-range EX hybrid 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. The Premium package may also be of interest to some buyers, as it adds a panoramic sunroof, LED interior lighting, and a power liftgate.

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. The hybrid variant mixes a turbocharged 1.6-liter four with a single electric motor that generates a combined 226 horses. Either powertrain can be paired with front- or all-wheel drive. There's also an all-wheel-drive-only plug-in hybrid that shares its gasoline engine with the regular hybrid but adds a more powerful electric motor and a bigger battery pack. 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. The hybrid's extra power and low-end push from the electric motor make it feel much more responsive. When we tested the plug-in hybrid model, it zipped to 60 mph in 6.9 seconds at our test track. The Sportage rides on a new platform with a longer wheelbase 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.

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.
Read More https://www.caranddriver.com/kia/sportage


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