2025 Kia Sportage Review: Features, Specs, Performance, and Pricing

Amidst the rapid global shift toward electrification in the automotive market, traditional fuel-powered SUVs continue to hold a significant position. As one of Kia’s best-selling models, the Kia Sportage has built a legendary reputation in the urban SUV segment since its 1993 debut, thanks to its “global car” DNA.

In 2025, this classic model receives a mid-cycle facelift, boosting its market competitiveness through design updates, smart upgrades, and powertrain improvements. For interested buyers, information on the 2025 Kia Sportage—including the 2025 Kia Sportage Price—is becoming increasingly relevant, especially in markets like China, where there are many Chinese cars for sale.

01 Design Evolution

The 2025 Kia Sportage adopts the brand’s latest “Opposites United” design philosophy, with different styling variations offered worldwide.

At the front, it features a larger Tiger Nose grille and matrix LED lighting. Particularly eye-catching is the “Star Map” headlight design, inspired by Kia’s latest EV models, which greatly enhances recognition.

Along the sides, the body features smooth yet sharp lines. With a 2755mm wheelbase, it delivers best-in-class passenger space. Notably, the European market gets an exclusive short-wheelbase version, measuring 4540mm long with a 2680mm wheelbase, offering better agility for city driving.

In China, the 2025 Kia Sportage measures 4670/1865/1680mm (L/W/H) and has a 2755mm wheelbase, ensuring generous legroom and headroom.

02 Interior & Features

Inside, the 2025 Kia Sportage offers a modern, tech-focused cabin. It comes standard with dual 12.3-inch curved displays and a 10-inch head-up display, creating a highly digital environment.

Additionally, higher trims include an 8-speaker Harman Kardon® premium audio system, delivering an immersive sound experience.

In terms of comfort, the 2025 Sportage is equally impressive. For example, the GT-Line S version adds a panoramic sunroof, power-adjustable seats, a heated steering wheel, and ventilated front seats—all enhancing comfort for driver and passengers.

Space is another major advantage. The cargo area offers 545 liters of standard capacity, which expands to 1725 liters with the rear seats folded, easily accommodating family travel needs.

03 Powertrain Performance

The 2025 Kia Sportage offers a wide range of powertrain options tailored to different consumer preferences.

In China, it is available with a 1.5T turbo, a 2.0T turbo gasoline engine, and a 2.0L HEV hybrid system.

The 1.5T engine uses Kia’s fourth-generation CVVD technology, producing 200 horsepower (Ps) and 253 N·m of torque.

Meanwhile, the 2.0T engine delivers stronger performance, with 236 Ps and 353 N·m of torque, enabling a 0–100 km/h sprint in just 7.8 seconds.

The 2.0L HEV hybrid uses Hyundai-Kia’s advanced TMED system, producing up to 200 Ps with a low WLTC combined fuel consumption of 5.6L/100km—balancing power and efficiency.

By contrast, European and American markets mainly offer a 1.6L turbo gasoline engine and a 1.6T hybrid system. The hybrid version produces up to 239 horsepower, while the plug-in hybrid reaches 288 horsepower.

04 Smart Driving & Safety

The 2025 Kia Sportage achieves a leading level of intelligence among fuel-powered SUVs.

In China, models come standard with 10 smart driving aids, including Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA), Lane Following Assist (LFA), and Lane Departure Warning (LDW).

Higher-tier models go further, adding 5 advanced features such as Highway Driving Assist (HDA) and Blind-Spot Collision Warning (BCW), reaching L2+ autonomous driving standards.

Similarly, European and American models include plenty of safety tech, such as Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist, a 360-degree surround-view monitor, and remote smart parking assist.

It is worth noting that Kia secured an L4 autonomous driving road test license in Shanghai in 2023. These technologies are now gradually being applied to mass-production models.

05 Global Price Comparison

The starting price of the 2025 Kia Sportage varies across global markets. Below is a comparison with prices converted to U.S. dollars for reference:

As shown, the 2025 Kia Sportage Price in China offers a clear advantage during promotional periods. This reflects Kia’s high value-for-money strategy in the region. Among Chinese cars for sale, the 2025 Sportage maintains global quality while offering strong price competitiveness.

06 Market Competition Analysis

In the global compact SUV segment, the 2025 Kia Sportage faces tough rivals like the Honda CR-V, Nissan Qashqai (sold as Rogue Sport in some markets), and Volkswagen Tharu.

Nevertheless, the Sportage holds its own with well-rounded capabilities and diverse powertrain options.

It is also worth noting that Kia sold over 3.09 million vehicles globally in 2024, securing a top-three position among global automakers. The Sportage alone contributed nearly 590,000 units, making it a key pillar of Kia’s SUV sales.

This strong brand influence and market reputation provide a solid foundation for the 2025 model’s success.

Conclusion

Overall, the 2025 Kia Sportage stands out as a well-rounded “top performer.” From China and Europe to North America and Australia, it has been carefully tailored to fit each market—showcasing Kia’s engineering expertise and market insight.

If you are looking for a versatile SUV that balances design, space, technology, and performance, the 2025 Kia Sportage deserves strong consideration. When comparing the 2025 Kia Sportage Price against other Chinese cars for sale, its value is clear.

No matter which version you choose, this model—backed by 32 years of heritage—is sure to bring plenty of excitement to your driving experience.