2022 Kia Sportage

　　

2022 Kia Sportage Review

byAlex NishimotoCorrespondent

　　Alex Nishimoto has worked in the automotive industry since 2007. He was a staff writer for MotorTrend for 10 years and since then has contributed to CNET, PRI, AutoWise and other publications.

　　The 2022 Kia Sportage is a small SUV that slots between the smaller Seltos and the three-row Sorento in the South Korean automaker's lineup. The 2022 model closes out the fourth generation of Sportage, which was first introduced in 2017. That makes this Sportage one of the older models in its class, but a wide range of features at an affordable price and a smooth ride help it still be a viable pick.

　　

Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2022 Kia Sportage LX 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 6A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.06 per gallon for regular unleaded in North Dakota.

Monthly estimates based on costs in North Dakota

　　$146/mo  for Sportage LX

　　Sportage LX

　　LX 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 6A) (Most Popular) - $24,090 MSRPLX 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl 6A) - $25,590 MSRPNightfall 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 6A) - $28,090 MSRPNightfall 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl 6A) - $29,790 MSRPEX 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 6A) - $28,390 MSRPEX 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl 6A) - $29,890 MSRPSX Turbo 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A) - $33,750 MSRPSX Turbo 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A) - $35,250 MSRP

　　vs

　　$167/mo

　　Avg. Compact SUV

　　However, the Sportage does suffer from underwhelming fuel economy and utility. As such, you might also want to check out class all-stars such as the Honda CR-V, Mazda CX-5, Nissan Rogue and Subaru Forester. Waiting for the redesigned 2023 Sportage, which boasts many improvements and dramatic new styling, is worth considering too. Read our Expert Rating to find out more on how the 2022 Sportage measures up to the competition.

　　zzdcar Expert Rating

　　Our VerdictThe zzdcar Vehicle Testing Team evaluates a fresh batch of vehicles every week, pairing objective assessments at our test track with real-world driving on city streets, freeways and winding roads. The data we gather results in our Expert Ratings. They’re based on 30-plus scores that cover every aspect of the automotive experience.

　　Average

　　7.2

　　out of 10

　　zzdcar TESTED

　　Rated for you by America's best test team.

　　

Performance

6.5/10

　　How does the Sportage drive? The Sportage performs best around town, where its ample low-end torque, smooth braking and nicely weighted steering can shine. But when taken out of its comfort zone, the Kia largely disappoints. Our Sportage test vehicle had the optional turbocharged 2.0-liter engine. With it we managed a 0-60 mph sprint of 9 seconds, which is a poor showing for a small SUV with an upgraded engine. The brake pedal is a little soft, but it's easy to gauge the amount of pressure needed to bring the Sportage to an easy stop.

　　While the ride feels sporty, the suspension feels sloppy on twisty roads. Combined with numb steering and sometimes on-off power delivery, the Sportage reveals itself to be anything but sporty.

　　

Comfort

7.5/10

　　How comfortable is the Sportage? We like the supportive front seats that have plenty of adjustment and above-average heating and cooling capabilities. The climate control system quickly adjusts cabin temperatures too. The interior is well isolated from traffic noise and from road noise over bumps, but tire noise is noticeable at freeway speeds.

　　In keeping with the Sportage name, the ride is a bit firm and sporty. Around town, the suspension does a great job absorbing small bumps, but at higher speeds and over larger bumps, there's noticeable bounciness and rebound. It can be almost boat-like at times.

　　Continue reading zzdcar Expert Rating below