Kia Sportage 2024: technology, modernity and safety without the fun

The Kia Sportage returns in 2024 virtually unchanged from the previous year. Nevertheless, its futuristic looks and modern interior remain up to date.

Like the Ford Escape, Hyundai Tucson and Toyota RAV4, the Sportage offers three engine options (gasoline, hybrid and plug-in hybrid) to meet the diverse needs of consumers. What's more, those who want to keep their vehicle for a long time can benefit from one of the best basic warranties on the market. It covers a period of 5 years over a distance of 100,000 km, whichever comes first.

In short, among the compact SUV's extensive line-up, we tested the gasoline-powered X-Line Limited model, which sits at the top of the range. It boasts an adventurous design characterized by stronger bumpers, ladder roof rails and unique 19-inch wheels. The interior is enhanced by sage-green synthetic leather upholstery.

Modern interior

The interior of the Sportage is both spacious and ergonomic. Occupants sit on comfortable seats that could do with more lateral support. Leg and shoulder room are generous. On the practical side, the wide opening of the luggage compartment and the tray positioned at the same height as the trunk sill make it easy to load large items.

For travel, the roof rails can support up to 220 lb of equipment. Alternatively, the Sportage can tow 1,653 lb, and even 2,500 lb with a braked trailer.

The cockpit features a curved interface that combines the multimedia system and instrument panel, both measuring 12.3 inches. The simple, brightly colored display is pleasing to the eye. The main infotainment menu features a multitude of functions and gadgets, perhaps even too many.

While all the controls on the steering wheel and buttons on the center console are ergonomic, the touchpad for the air conditioning and radio is not. It's not possible to control both simultaneously. Instead, you have to toggle between the two using a button next to the left-hand dial. Fortunately, it doesn't take long to get the hang of it, but we question the relevance of this integration.

Efficient all-wheel drive

Don't expect a particularly inspiring ride in the Sportage, which prioritizes comfort over dynamism. As a result, the seats are well cushioned and the suspension is supple enough to absorb road imperfections. This is a vehicle that's easy to drive, even if the steering, though sufficiently precise, proves light and over-assisted.

The SUV employs a 4-cylinder, 2.5-liter naturally-aspirated engine of honest performance. Its 187 hp and 178 lb-ft of torque are adequate for most trips, but acceleration suffers at high speeds. The engine works with an eight-speed transmission, which is much more pleasant than a continuously variable gearbox. However, it doesn't always fully engage the right gears when the vehicle is travelling at over 80 km/h. To remedy this, simply engage the gearshift in manual mode.

And while we're on the subject of the gasoline-powered model, it comes with two drivetrains: front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive. We were able to try out four-wheel drive in the middle of a snowstorm to see just how effective the system is. We were well equipped with Continental VikingContact 7 tires. What's more, versions with all-wheel drive have their ground clearance raised by 210 mm rather than 181 mm. This is an interesting argument when there's a lot of snow.

Finally, we obtained a fuel consumption rating of 9 L/100 km during our test week. Hybrid and plug-in hybrid models will reduce this figure to 6.2 and 6.7 L/100 km respectively.

A safe vehicle

The Sportage uses the same third-generation N3 platform as the larger Sorento. According to the manufacturer, this platform offers greater rigidity and improved handling compared to the previous model. Soundproofing is also improved by the addition of more insulating materials.

In terms of safety, the fifth iteration of the Korean SUV boasts numerous active and passive features - following the industry trend. In crash tests, the Sportage was awarded the honorable mention Top Safety Pick + by the U.S.-based Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) in 2023.

For 2024, reinforcements have been added to the B-pillar and door. Rear passengers benefit from an additional airbag that deploys at chest level.

In short, driving the Kia Sportage doesn't raise passions. Instead, it's a rational vehicle with a lot to offer. Its many variants and engines, as well as its cutting-edge technological and safety features, are just some of its strengths.

Even so, it fails to stand out advantageously from many of its competitors, even its non-identical twin, the Hyundai Tucson. And that's a shame!