2018 Kia Sportage

The 2018 Kia Sportage gets a lineup with three trims, priced between $23,600-$32,900. The first two trims get a 2.4L 4-cylinder engine that generates 181 HP and 175 lb-ft of torque. With an average acceleration performance, on one hand, the Sportage shows some phenomenal brake and towing abilities on the other. It can tow as much as 2000 pounds and is one of the best in class for the same.

The other engine offering of the Kia Sportage is a 2.0L engine that generates 240 HP and 260 lb-ft of torque. This engine is offered only on the SX Trim, priced at $32,900. The basic trims get a soothing interior which offers decent space both for cargo and passengers. With a rather compact exterior design, the 2018 Sportage offers a perfect score in terms of its safety offering. Overall, this is indeed a value for money option and should be considered.

"The 2018 Kia Sportage earns a good predicted reliability rating, and it boasts a handsome, roomy cabin and a gentle ride." - Cars.USnews

The 2018 Kia Sportage is offered with a lineup of 3 trims and is priced between $23,600-$32,900. With regard to its powertrain, there are two to offer, the basic engine being a 2.4ZL 4-cylinder engine that churns out 181 HP and 175 lb-ft of torque. The other available powertrain is a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine offered only on the SX Trim, capable of generating a whopping 240hp and 260 lb-ft of torque.

With regard to the difference in trims, it is mainly to do with the interior features, this includes day interior materials, cabin comfort, and infotainment offering. Each trim gets an option of two drivetrains to choose from, an AWD and an FWD. The AWD drivetrains are costlier by $1500. As you go up the trim ladder you get better interiors and high-end infotainment features.

Trims	LX	EX	SX Turbo
MSRP(FWD)	$23,600	$26,400	$32,900
MSRP(AWD)	+$1,500	+$1,500	+$1,500
Features	AM/FM/MP3/Sirius 6-Speaker Audio System w/ 5″ Touch-Screen	Features LX Plus: UVO w/ 7″ Touch-Screen Display	Features EX Plus: UVO w/ 8″ Touch-Screen
	Rear-Camera Display	Android Auto and Apple CarPlay	Voice-Command Navigation
	60/40 Split-Folding Rear Seat w/ 17-Step Recline	Blind Spot Detection and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert	Harman/Kardon premium sound with 8 speakers
		Leather Seating with Heated Front Seats	Panoramic Sunroof

We recommend

Despite being the base trim, the LX trim is priced at $23,600 and is loaded with features. However, we would recommend the EX trim at a price of $26,400. It comes equipped with features such as Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, advanced safety features, and premium interiors. The best offering is actually in the high-end trim, the SX, however, is priced above the $30,000 mark and we wouldn't recommend it.

“It’s hard to find style and versatility in the same place, but the redesigned Kia Sportage delivers on both counts. You’ll like the number of features that Kia has packed into this small crossover, too. It’s one of our top choices for 2017.” -Edmunds

Engine and Transmission of the 2018 Kia Sportage

The engine offering of the Kia Sportage sees two powertrains options and two drivetrain options. However, the powertrain options are limited to specific trims and can not be interchanged. While the drivetrain options are available across all three trims in the lineup. The basic engine offering being a 2.4L I-4 engine, offered for the LX, and EX trim. It comes mated to a CVT transmission.

The other engine offering is a 2.0L turbocharged engine that comes with a 6-speed automatic transmission, this engine is capable of generating 240 HP and 260 lb-ft of torque, unlike the basic engine offering that is capable of generating only 181 HP and 175 lb-ft of torque.

Models	2018 Kia Sportage	2018 Hyundai Tucson	2018 Ford Escape	2018 Mazda CX-5
MSRP	$23,600	$22,550	$23,940	$24,450
Engine	2.4 liter DOHC, 16-valve I-4Gas engine	2.0Linline 4 Gas engine	2.5LInline 4 Gas engine	2.5LInline 4 Gas engine
Transmission	CVT automatic	6-speed automatic	6-speed Automatic	6-speed Automatic
Power (hp@RPM)	181hp @ 6000 RPM	164hp @ 6200 RPM	168hp @ 6000 RPM	187hp @ 6000 RPM
Torque (lb-ft@RPM)	175 lb-ft @ 4000 RPM	151 lb-ft @ 4000 RPM	170 lb-ft @ 4500 RPM	185 lb-ft @ 4000 RPM

In comparison with its competition, we have the 2018 Mazda CX-5 that generates 187 HP and 185 lb-ft of torque with its 2.5L inline, gas engine, however, this comes at a higher price tag of $24,450. The other two rivals offer a lower power output; the Hyundai Tucson generates 164 HP while the Ford Escape manages to churn out 168 HP.

Acceleration of the 2018 Kia Sportage

The 2018 Kia Sportage with its basic engine offering isn't very impressive in the front of acceleration. With its 2.4-liter engine, it manages to go from 0-60 mph in 8.8 seconds, a split second faster than the slowest car in consideration. However, the quarter-mile timing of the 2018 Sportage seems to be pretty impressive as it records it in 16.2 seconds. Having the best timing in class due to its maximum power output.

Models	2018 Kia Sportage	2018 Hyundai Tucson	2018 Ford Escape	2018 Mazda CX-5
0-60 MPH (seconds)	8.8 sec	8.3 sec	8.9 sec	8.3 sec
Quarter mile (seconds)	16.2 sec @ 86.4 mph	16.5 sec @ 84 mph	16.6 @ 86 mph	16.3 sec @ 83.8 mph
Engine	2.4L	2.0L	2.5L	2.5L
EmissionTons/yr of CO2 Emissions @ 15K mi/year	6.8	6.8	7.3	6.5

Against its competition, we have a tie for the first position, both the 2018 Hyundai Tucson and the 2018 Mazda CX-5 record the 0-60 mph in 8.3 seconds. It is followed by the Kia Sportage in the second position and subsequently by the 2018 Ford Escape with the timing of 8.9 seconds. In the quarter-mile dash, we see the tables turn, as the Kia ranks first, followed by the Mazda CX-5, with a timing of 16.3 seconds. Following in the third position is the Hyundai Tucson with a timing of 16.5 seconds and a split second later we see the Ford Escape finish at 16.6 seconds.

Ride and Handling of the 2018 Kia Sportage

In terms of driving experience, the basic engine offering of the 2018 Kia Sportage is adequate for running around the city. But, when you go to consider highway cruises the power might not suffice. Equipped with a very good suspension system all the bombs are absorbed and the ride delivered is extremely comforting. Adding to the experience is a sharp steering, linear and sturdy brakes, along a sense of composure that gives sheer confidence to the driver.

Brake performance of the 2018 Kia Sportage

The Kia Sportage doesn't just offer the maximum power output in the segment and stops at that, it further goes ahead to offer a fine set of brakes. Equipped with 12-inch rotors for the front wheels and 11.9-inch rotors for the rear wheels helps the Kia Sportage brings its massive weight of 3596 pounds to a standstill in just 118 feet.

Models	2018 Kia Sportage	2018 Hyundai Tucson	2018 Ford Escape	2018 Mazda CX-5
Brake front(in)	12.0	12.1	12.8	11.7
Brake Rear(in)	11.9	11.9	12	11.9
Curb weight(lbs)	3596	3300	3552	4669
60-0 MPH (ft.)	118	123	123	135

Compared to the rivals Kia weighs the most and yet has the best brake performance to offer. The 2018 Hyundai Tucson and the 2018 Ford Escape rank together in the second position with a stopping distance of 123 feet. Ranking in the last position with a stopping distance of 135 feet we have the 2018 Mazda CX 5, this is probably because it gets the smallest rotors in class.

Towing Capacity of the 2018 Kia Sportage

Equipped with a massive 175 lb-ft of torque along with 181 HP, the 2018 Kia Sportage gets the ability to tow 2000 pounds. However, this figure is not impressive and at the same time, it doesn't disappoint as well. The towing capacity of the computers might just be better than what the Sportage has to offer.

Models	2018 Kia Sportage	2018 Hyundai Tucson	2018 Ford Escape	2018 Mazda CX-5
Towing Capacity (lbs)	2000	1500	1500-3500	2000
Drive Train	AWD	AWD	FWD	AWD
Engine	2.0L	2.0L	2.5L	2.5L

It is only the 2018 Ford Escape that comes equipped with a better ability to tow, with its 168 HP and 170 lb-ft of torque, it gets the ability to tow 3500 pounds. The 2018 Mazda CX-5 offers an identical towing capacity as Sportage, measuring 2000 lbs. The 2018 Hyundai Tucson is capable of towing only 1500 lbs and measures the least in the segment for the same.

"With the base engine, the Kia Sportage’s fuel economy estimates are below average for the class." - Cars.USnews

Kia has always been at the forefront in terms of delivering efficient engines, the 2018 Kia Sportage experiences the same with a fuel economy that is pretty decent when compared with the offering of its rivals. It returns as much as 23 miles to a gallon for city drives, 30 miles to a gallon for Highway cruises, and a combined reading of 26 miles to a gallon.

Models	2018 Kia Sportage	2018 Hyundai Tucson	2018 Ford Escape	2018 Mazda CX-5
MPG (city)	23	23	21	24
MPG (highway)	30	30	29	30
MPG (combined)	26	26	24	26

In competition with its rivals, most of them offer similar fuel efficiencies apart from the 2018 Ford Escape with lacs a little bit. Yet with a decent fuel economy to offer, It returns 21 miles to a gallon for city drives, 29 miles to a gallon for highway cruises, and a combined reading of 24 miles to a gallon.

“What has improved, however, is visibility, thanks to thinner A- and C-pillars and more rear glass, which is a welcome change. … Extending over the back seat was my favorite of the interior features — a massive panoramic moonroof. … When open, it lets in tons of light and air”- Cars.com

Seating and Comfort of the 2018 Kia Sportage

It is a known fact that vehicles from Kia offer the utmost comfort and opulence for their cabin. With an ability to accommodate 5 individuals just like its rivals, the 2018 Kia Sportage also offers an abundance of passenger space. Featuring several infotainments and technological features that add to the existing levels of comfort, the cabin of the Kia Sportage is indeed a fine place to be in.

Models	2018 Kia Sportage	2018 Hyundai Tucson	2018 Ford Escape	2018 Mazda CX-5
Passenger capacity	5	5	5	5
Passenger Volume(ft cube)	98.6	102.2	98.1	103.6
Front (Head/Shoulder/Leg)(In.)	39.3/57.1/41.5	39.6/57.1/41.5	39.9/55.9/43.1	39.7/57.1/41
Second (Head/Shoulder/Leg)(In.)	39.1/55.1/38.2	39.2/55.1/38.2	39/55.3/37.3	39/54.8/39.6

Further, the Kia Sportage also offers an easy entry and exit. The 2018 model also sees an improvement in the interior material used. Compared with its competition, all four cars are extremely alike with regard to the passenger room dimensions offered. Sportage comes with a cloth upholstery as standard, but one can upgrade to a leather upholstery at an additional charge.

Infotainment of the 2018 Kia Sportage

The 2018 Sportage offers the best and most tech features in the class. It comes in handy with smartphone connectivity features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and the infotainment system is easy to use and responds quickly to inputs. There are also some physical controls for audio and climate control.

Cargo Space of the 2018 Kia Sportage

In terms of the cargo space offering, the 2018 Kia Sportage does a decent job, however, it might not be enough to compete with its rivals. It provides 30.7 cubic feet as the standard cargo room, this can further be expanded to 60.1 cubic feet with the second row of seats folded down.

Models	2018 Kia Sportage	2018 Hyundai Tucson	2018 Ford Escape	2018 Mazda CX-5
Behind 2nd row (ft. cube)	30.7	31.0	34.3	30.9
With 2nd row folded (ft. cube)	60.1	61.9	68.0	59.6

In comparison with its competition, we find that the 2018 Ford Escape offers the maximum cargo space in the class with a standard offering of 34.3 cubic feet, and this can be expanded to a room of 68 cubic feet. With a significant margin, the Hyundai Tucson ranks in the second position with an offering of 31 cubic feet as its standard cargo room and maximum space of 61.9 cubic feet. Mazda had a similar offering to that of the Sportage.

"You either like the high-mounted headlights or you don't, so you can make up your own mind there. As for the rest of the stubby little Sportage, we're quite fond of it. The lines are clean and crisp. The "tiger-nose" grille treatment works well here, both aesthetically and in establishing the Sportage as a Kia from first glance" - KBB

Dimensions and Weight of the 2018 Kia Sportage

It need not be said that Kia Sportage stands out for its exterior design. Unlike its competition, it offers a unique body style along with its legendary tiger-nose grille. The 2018 model year gets a slight makeover with some significant changes on the sides making it look well proportioned and sleek. Weighing 3596 pounds makes it one of the heaviest vehicles in consideration, however, its competition isn't far behind.

Models	2018 Kia Sportage	2018 Hyundai Tucson	2018 Ford Escape	2018 Mazda CX-5
Curb weight(lbs)	3596	3300	3552	3693
Length(in)	176.4	176.2	178.1	179.1
Width(in)	73.0	72.8	72.4	72.5
Height(in)	64.4	64.8	66.3	65.3
Ground clearance(in)	6.4	6.4	7.8	7.5
Wheelbase(in)	105.1	105.1	105.9	106.2
Track width(in) F/R	63.5/64	63.3/63.8	61.5/61.6	62.8/6.2

Compared to the competition, the 2018 Mazda CX-5 weighs the most, at 3693 pounds, it is also the longest car in the segment, and with its length comes the best wheelbase on offer. In terms of height, it is the 2018 Ford Escape that is the tallest, measuring 66.3 inches. In terms of width, it is the Kia Sportage at 73 inches. Ford also offers the best in class ground clearance at 7.8 inches.

Exterior features offered for the 2018 Kia Sportage

• Bumper Applique
• Paint Protection Package
• Mud Guards
• Wheel Locks
• Cross Bars
• Tow Hitch

"The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety named the 2018 Sportage a Top Safety Pick and gave it the highest rating of Good in six crash tests." - Cars.USnews

With regard to the safety offering, the 2018 Kia Sportage bags a perfect five on five stars for its overall safety rating. It further goes ahead to receive a five on five-star rating for the Side crash safety test. However, it does lag behind in the aspects of Frontal cash, and Rollover safety tests.

To further confirm and reassure the audience about the safety offering of the 2018 Kia Sportage, we also look into the safety rating as given by IIHS. It gets an overall grading of "Good", and this is an outcome of the majority of the safety aspects getting a "Good" grade but there are a couple of aspects where it gets graded "Acceptable". These aspects are Small overlap front: passenger-side, and Latch ease of use.

Safety features of the 2018 Kia Sportage

• Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
• ABS And Driveline Traction Control
• Side Impact Beams
• Dual Stage Driver And Passenger Seat-Mounted Side Airbags
• Dual Stage Driver And Passenger Front Airbags
• Curtain 1st And 2nd Row Airbags
• Airbag Occupancy Sensor
• Outboard Front Lap And Shoulder Safety Belts -inc Rear Center 3 Point, Height Adjusters and Pretensioners
• Rear Child-Safety Door Locks
• Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH)
• Front and Rear Crumple Zones
   

2018 Kia Sportage Vs 2018 Hyundai Tucson

Both the Hyundai and the Kia come from the same parent company, this is clearly visible when you see the specifications of both their offerings, the Tucson and Sportage. With several similarities across all the aspects, there does exist a major difference in their power output, this is despite getting a similar engine, it further gets similar rotors for their wheels, similar interior specs, and even similar pricing. 

2018 Kia Sportage Vs2018 Mazda CX-5

 When put up against the 2018 Mazda CX-5, which comes priced at $24,450, it is the latter that offers slightly more power than the Sportage, and this translates to better acceleration performance. However, in terms of towing capacity both the vehicles are just the same, with the ability to tow 2000 pounds. Kia Sportage has a better brake performance, while the Mazda comes back with a better fuel economy on offer. In terms of interiors, both the offerings are alike, for a slightly lower price we would suggest the Kia Sportage.

2018 Kia Sportage Vs 2018 Ford Escape

Up against the 2018 Ford Escape, the pricing of both are similar, priced at $23,940, for the Escape and $23,600, for the Sportage. However, in terms of power output, it is the Sportage that is way ahead with an offering of 181hp, while the Ford Escape churns out only 168 HP. Even in terms of fuel efficiency, it is Sportage that has a better offering. Moving on to the interior aspect, we again find that both the vehicles have a similar passenger space to offer. It is pretty clear that the Kia Sportage makes a better buy when compared.

With an average performance in terms of acceleration, power output, and torque generation, the 2018 Kia Sportage is a car that delivers in all aspects to a certain extent. In terms of safety, it scores a perfect 5 out of 5 stars, as awarded by the NHTSA. And the IIHS grades it "Good" for the same. In comparison with its competition, the Sportage seems to offer value for money and should surely be considered.

 

Also read:

• Read about the 2021 Kia Sorento Review: Release Date, Pricing, Specs, and MPG Ratings
• Read about the 2022 Kia Carnival Minivan Review: Expected Release Date, Prices, MPG, And Performance

2018 Kia Sportage FAQs

At what price is the 2018 Kia Sportage offered?

The 2018 Kia Sportage is offered at a price range of $23,600-$32,900.

What is the fuel economy reading of the 2018 Kia Sportage?

The 2018 Kia Sportage returns an average fuel economy of 23/30/36.

How is the cargo space offering of the 2018 Kia Sportage?

The 2018 Kia Sportage offers a cargo space of 30.7 cubic feet and a maximum cargo space of 60.1 cubic feet.

Is the 2018 Kia Sportage a reliable vehicle?

The 2018 Kia Sportage has a warranty offering that includes the following:

• Basic Warranty: 5 yr./ 60000 mi.
• Drivetrain Warranty: 10 yr./ 100000 mi.
• Roadside Warranty: 5 yr./ 60000 mi.
• Rust Warranty: 5 yr./ 100000 mi.