EXPERT REVIEW · COMPACT SUV

2026 Kia Sportage review

Kia Sportage: a sensible pick with a few compromises. Illustrative review

7.9/10 OffLot expert score

The 2026 Kia Sportage is a strong contender in its class. Roomy second row and flexible cargo floor; standard driver-assist suite. Third row (where offered) is for kids and touch-only climate controls on some trims, so test the trim you'd actually buy. Starting around $29,000, it undercuts most direct rivals.

What's good

  • Roomy second row and flexible cargo floor
  • Standard driver-assist suite
  • Easy to see out of and park

What to check

  • Third row (where offered) is for kids
  • Touch-only climate controls on some trims

Best for: Buyers who want low running costs without giving up comfort. Starting MSRP: $29,000.

Owner reviews · 4.0 of 5 from 3 owners

★★★★☆Camille B. · Kansas City, MO · 26 months owned
Great daily driver

Bought it for the school runs and road trips and it has handled everything so far. Fuel economy has been close to the sticker in mixed driving.

★★★★☆Jake G. · Portland, OR · 5 months owned
Exactly what we needed

The cargo room is the standout. My only gripe is the touchscreen climate controls, which I knew going in.

★★★★☆Victor K. · Corpus Christi, TX · 26 months owned
Great daily driver

The cargo room is the standout. My only gripe is the touchscreen climate controls, which I knew going in.

Price trend · used Kia Sportage, 12 months

$18.0k$18.4k$18.9k$19.4k$19.8kNov 25Jan 26Mar 26May 26Jul 26Sep 26

Average used asking price in the OffLot demo index: $19,025 · -2.76% last 30 days · +4.1% year over year.

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