2023 Kia Sportage vs 2022 Kia Sportage

The 2022 Kia Sportage presented a mixed bag in terms of design. While the tiger-nose grille, a signature of Kia's design language, seemed out of place on the Sportage, other elements were more successful. The SUV boasted a stylish four-dot running light signature reminiscent of the Porsche Macan and a symmetrical rear design akin to Volkswagen models. The SX Turbo trim, with its 19-inch wheels, added to the vehicle's planted stance. Inside, the Sportage adopted a Germanic aesthetic with a black dashboard, metallic accents, and clear instrumentation. The interior offered a high-contrast look with available color options and featured user-friendly buttons and knobs for easy control of the stereo and climate settings.

In contrast, the 2023 Kia Sportage underwent a complete redesign, adopting a more exotic and French-inspired appearance. The new model featured striking boomerang-shaped daytime running lights and textured metal trim on the D Pillar, adding a touch of class. The 2023 Sportage offered seven trim levels, including new X-Line, X-Pro, and X-Pro Prestige trims. Inside, Kia replaced leather seating with durable synthetic leather, though the steering wheel and shift knob retained leather wrapping in higher trims. The dashboard was dominated by a large display, enhancing visibility, but the use of hard plastics and touch-sensitive controls for HVAC functions detracted from the overall experience.

The 2022 Kia Sportage offered two engine options. Most models came with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine producing 181 horsepower and 175 lb-ft of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. The SX Turbo trim featured a more powerful 240 hp (237 hp with AWD) engine, delivering 260 lb-ft of torque. This engine provided quick acceleration, especially beneficial at higher elevations. The Sportage's suspension system, with MacPherson struts and multi-link rear suspension, offered a smooth ride, though some body roll was noticeable. The SX Turbo trim included upgraded brakes and exclusive 19-inch wheels, enhancing its sporty character.

The 2023 Kia Sportage introduced a new 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder engine, generating 187 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque. This engine was paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and offered slightly improved fuel efficiency compared to the previous model. However, the absence of a turbocharged engine option, previously available in the 2022 model, was a drawback for those seeking a more dynamic driving experience. The 2023 Sportage introduced the X-Line and X-Pro trims, with the latter offering off-road capabilities such as all-terrain tires and specific drive modes. Despite these enhancements, the naturally aspirated engine struggled to match the performance of turbocharged competitors.

The 2022 Kia Sportage, though compact, provided a surprisingly roomy passenger compartment. The SX Turbo trim offered luxurious features like perforated leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, and heated and ventilated front seats. Rear passengers enjoyed generous legroom and amenities such as air conditioning vents and a USB charging port. However, the cargo space was limited, with 60.1 cubic feet available with the rear seats folded down. The smart liftgate technology added convenience but could be turned off if desired.

The 2023 Kia Sportage grew in size, offering more interior space than its predecessor. Rear-seat legroom increased to an impressive 41.3 inches, and the cargo area expanded to 39.6 cubic feet, with 74.1 cubic feet available with the rear seats folded. The front seats provided ample storage options, but the use of touch-sensitive controls for HVAC functions proved frustrating. The 2023 model's increased size and ground clearance improved its practicality, but the overcomplicated technology detracted from the overall experience.

The 2022 Kia Sportage featured an 8-inch touchscreen display with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Higher trims included UVO Link connected services, satellite radio, and a premium Harman Kardon audio system. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with physical knobs for volume and tuning. However, the UVO Link system lacked advanced features like a WiFi hotspot and wireless smartphone mirroring.

In the 2023 Kia Sportage, technology took a significant leap forward. The EX trim and above featured a 12.3-inch touchscreen interface, complemented by a panoramic driver information display in higher trims. Despite its impressive appearance, the system had some quirks, such as wired Android Auto and Apple CarPlay on higher trims. The icons on the screen were difficult to distinguish, requiring drivers to take their eyes off the road. Nevertheless, the Sportage offered wireless charging, rear USB-C ports, and a Harman Kardon stereo on select trims, providing a technologically advanced experience.

The 2022 Kia Sportage came equipped with a range of safety features, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assistance. Higher trims offered additional features like blind-spot warning and adaptive cruise control. The Sportage received favorable crash-test ratings from NHTSA and IIHS, with the SX Turbo trim earning an Acceptable headlight rating.

The 2023 Kia Sportage continued to prioritize safety with standard collision-avoidance technology, including automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and rear backup sensors. Higher trims added features like blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control. The SX Prestige and X-Pro Prestige trims included advanced safety features like a blind-view monitor and highway driving assist. However, crash-test ratings from NHTSA and IIHS were not yet available for the 2023 model.