Here's a comprehensive breakdown of the 2025 Kia Sportage Hybrid (HEV) test drive review, including its real-world driving performance and hybrid technology:
Overview & Key Details
Type: Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV)
Category: Compact SUV
Price: Starts around $28,000 (base) to $38,000 (fully loaded trims)
Available Trims: LX, EX, SX Prestige, and X-Line models
Colors: Multiple options including Snow White Pearl, Steel Gray, Fusion Black, Vesta Blue, and Jungle Green.
Performance & Efficiency
Engine Size: 1.6L Turbocharged Inline-4 Hybrid
Horsepower:
Gas engine: 177 hp
Electric motor: 59 hp
Combined system output: 227 hp
Torque: Up to 258 lb-ft (combined).
Transmission: 6-speed automatic transmission.
Fuel Consumption:
City/Highway: 39 MPG city / 38 MPG highway (EPA-estimated).
Towing Capacity: Up to 2,000 lbs when properly equipped.
Range: Approximately 500 miles with a full tank.
Fuel Tank Size: 13.7 gallons.
Hybrid System & Battery
Battery Type: Lithium-Ion Polymer
Battery Size: 1.49 kWh.
Regenerative Braking: Enhances efficiency during deceleration.
Cold Weather Performance: Fuel efficiency drops by ~10-15% in freezing temperatures.
Hot Weather Performance: Minimal impact when using A/C, but range reduces slightly.
Safety & Technology
Safety Features:
Forward Collision Avoidance
Blind Spot Monitoring
Lane Keeping Assist
Adaptive Cruise Control
360-degree camera.
Crash Ratings: Expected 5-star safety rating.
Entertainment System:
12.3-inch dual panoramic display.
Premium Harman Kardon sound system with 8 speakers.
Dimensions
Wheelbase: 108.5 inches.
Length: 183.5 inches.
Width: 73.4 inches.
Height: 66.1 inches.
Ground Clearance: 8.3 inches.
Turning Circle Diameter: 37.4 feet.
Base Curb Weight: 3,646 lbs.
Comfort & Capacity
Seating Capacity: Up to 5 passengers.
Cargo Space:
39.6 cubic feet (behind 2nd row).
74.1 cubic feet (with 2nd row folded).
Interior Features:
Heated and ventilated front seats.
Leather upholstery (available on higher trims).
Panoramic sunroof (optional).
Maintenance & Warranty
Annual Maintenance Cost: Approximately $400-$600.
Insurance Prices: Around $1,400/year, depending on location and coverage.
Warranty:
10-year/100,000-mile limited powertrain.
5-year/60,000-mile basic warranty.
Service Periods: Oil changes every 10,000 miles, hybrid system checks every 30,000 miles.
Tires & Wheels
Tire Sizes: 17 to 19-inch options (depending on trim).
Wheel Material: Alloy with optional black finish.
Why It’s Better
Pros:
Excellent fuel economy for its class.
Smooth hybrid powertrain with strong acceleration.
Generous safety and tech features.
Spacious cabin and cargo area.
Cons:
Smaller battery compared to plug-in hybrids.
Moderate towing capacity for heavy loads.
Advantages Over Competitors:
More affordable than the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid.
Better tech integration compared to the Hyundai Tucson Hybrid.
Superior warranty package.
Additional Notes
Superstructure: Built on Kia’s N3 platform, improving crash safety and ride quality.
Country of Manufacture: South Korea.
Real-World Performance: Quiet operation in city driving and smooth power delivery on highways.
Youtube
Overview & Key Details
Type: Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV)
Category: Compact SUV
Price: Starts around $28,000 (base) to $38,000 (fully loaded trims)
Available Trims: LX, EX, SX Prestige, and X-Line models
Colors: Multiple options including Snow White Pearl, Steel Gray, Fusion Black, Vesta Blue, and Jungle Green.
Performance & Efficiency
Engine Size: 1.6L Turbocharged Inline-4 Hybrid
Horsepower:
Gas engine: 177 hp
Electric motor: 59 hp
Combined system output: 227 hp
Torque: Up to 258 lb-ft (combined).
Transmission: 6-speed automatic transmission.
Fuel Consumption:
City/Highway: 39 MPG city / 38 MPG highway (EPA-estimated).
Towing Capacity: Up to 2,000 lbs when properly equipped.
Range: Approximately 500 miles with a full tank.
Fuel Tank Size: 13.7 gallons.
Hybrid System & Battery
Battery Type: Lithium-Ion Polymer
Battery Size: 1.49 kWh.
Regenerative Braking: Enhances efficiency during deceleration.
Cold Weather Performance: Fuel efficiency drops by ~10-15% in freezing temperatures.
Hot Weather Performance: Minimal impact when using A/C, but range reduces slightly.
Safety & Technology
Safety Features:
Forward Collision Avoidance
Blind Spot Monitoring
Lane Keeping Assist
Adaptive Cruise Control
360-degree camera.
Crash Ratings: Expected 5-star safety rating.
Entertainment System:
12.3-inch dual panoramic display.
Premium Harman Kardon sound system with 8 speakers.
Dimensions
Wheelbase: 108.5 inches.
Length: 183.5 inches.
Width: 73.4 inches.
Height: 66.1 inches.
Ground Clearance: 8.3 inches.
Turning Circle Diameter: 37.4 feet.
Base Curb Weight: 3,646 lbs.
Comfort & Capacity
Seating Capacity: Up to 5 passengers.
Cargo Space:
39.6 cubic feet (behind 2nd row).
74.1 cubic feet (with 2nd row folded).
Interior Features:
Heated and ventilated front seats.
Leather upholstery (available on higher trims).
Panoramic sunroof (optional).
Maintenance & Warranty
Annual Maintenance Cost: Approximately $400-$600.
Insurance Prices: Around $1,400/year, depending on location and coverage.
Warranty:
10-year/100,000-mile limited powertrain.
5-year/60,000-mile basic warranty.
Service Periods: Oil changes every 10,000 miles, hybrid system checks every 30,000 miles.
Tires & Wheels
Tire Sizes: 17 to 19-inch options (depending on trim).
Wheel Material: Alloy with optional black finish.
Why It’s Better
Pros:
Excellent fuel economy for its class.
Smooth hybrid powertrain with strong acceleration.
Generous safety and tech features.
Spacious cabin and cargo area.
Cons:
Smaller battery compared to plug-in hybrids.
Moderate towing capacity for heavy loads.
Advantages Over Competitors:
More affordable than the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid.
Better tech integration compared to the Hyundai Tucson Hybrid.
Superior warranty package.
Additional Notes
Superstructure: Built on Kia’s N3 platform, improving crash safety and ride quality.
Country of Manufacture: South Korea.
Real-World Performance: Quiet operation in city driving and smooth power delivery on highways.
Youtube