DecodedCars2023 Kia Sportage
Trims, performance, features, fuel economy, safety and known problems — with the pros and cons against similar 2023 models.
- Class
- Small Sport Utility Vehicle 2WD
- Body styles
- AWD 4dr SUV, FWD 4dr SUV
- Engines
- 1.6L 4-cyl turbo, 2.5L 4-cyl
- Horsepower
- 177–188 hp
- Transmission
- 8-speed automatic
- Drivetrain
- Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
- Seats
- 5
- Fuel
- Hybrid, Plug-in Hybrid, Regular Gasoline
- MPG (best)
- 43 combined · 42 city / 44 hwy
- Length
- 183.5 in
- Curb weight
- 3,373–3,543 lb
- NHTSA rating
- ★★★★★
- Recalls
- 7 campaigns
Pros & cons
What's good
- Excellent fuel economyUp to 43 MPG combined — 57% better than the average 2023 small SUV (27.4 MPG).
- Hybrid version availableOffered as a hybrid and plug-in hybrid as well as gas.
- AWD / 4WD available
- 5-star NHTSA safety ratingTop overall score in federal crash tests.
- Lots of standard safety tech5 of 5 key driver aids standard on the versions we checked.
Watch out for
- Many owner complaints309 complaints filed with NHTSA versus about 65 for similar models — most often about the electrical system.
- "Park outside" recallCheck that the recall repair was done before buying or driving.
Calculated from EPA, NHTSA and vPIC data against 36 similar 2023 models — not a review. How we calculate this →
Overview
The 2023 Kia Sportage is a small SUV offered with 2 engines (1.6L 4-cyl turbo and 2.5L 4-cyl), including a hybrid version and front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive.
It measures about 184 inches long and 74 inches wide on a 109-inch wheelbase, with a curb weight of roughly 3,543 lb (AWD 4dr SUV).
EPA rates its most efficient version at 43 MPG combined (42 city / 44 highway), 57% better than the 2023 small SUV average of 27.4 MPG, for an estimated $1,550 a year in fuel.
In NHTSA crash testing it earned the top 5-star overall rating.
It has 7 recall campaigns on file and owners have filed 309 complaints with NHTSA since 2015, most often about the electrical system.
What changed for 2023
- New body dimensions: 7.1 in longer, wheelbase +3.6 in — most likely a redesign or new generation
- New hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions
- Engines added: 1.6L 4-cyl turbo and 2.5L 4-cyl
- Engines dropped: 2.4L 4-cyl and 2.0L 4-cyl turbo
- Best combined MPG up from 26 to 43
Compared with 2022; trim, feature and price changes aren't covered. See the 2022 Sportage →
Trims, performance & features
Engine177 hpturbo 4-cyl hybrid
Engine188 hp2.5L 4-cyl
Transmission8-speed automatic
DriveAWD/4WD
Seating5 seats · 2 rows
Trims
EXX-LINESX-PRESTIGE or SX-PLX
Safety & driver-assist features
Automatic emergency brakingStandard
Pedestrian emergency brakingStandard
Forward collision warningStandard
Blind-spot monitoringStandard
Blind-spot interventionStandard
Rear cross-traffic alertStandard
Rear automatic brakingStandard
Lane departure warningStandard
Lane keeping assistStandard
Lane centeringStandard
Adaptive cruise controlStandard
Backup cameraStandard
Automatic high beamsStandard
Keyless startStandard
LED headlightsYes
Built in: Gwang-Ju, South Korea · West Point, Georgia
NHTSA vPIC, as reported by the manufacturer for 5 2023 Sportage configurations; may not list every trim. How we calculate this →
Dimensions & weight
| Body | Length | Width | Height | Wheelbase | Track F / R | Curb weight | Weight F/R |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| AWD 4dr SUV | 183.5 in | 73.6 in | 65.7 in | 108.7 in | 63.8 / 64.2 in | 3,543 lb | 58/42 |
| FWD 4dr SUV | 183.5 in | 73.6 in | 65.7 in | 108.7 in | 63.8 / 64.2 in | 3,373 lb | 58/42 |
Transport Canada CVS (Open Government Licence – Canada), Canadian-market figures.
Will it fit your garage? Check with your measurements →Engines, MPG & running costs
| Version | Engine | Transmission | Drive | City / Hwy / Comb | vs. class | Fuel / yr | CO₂ g/mi |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sportage Hybrid FWD Hybrid | 1.6L 4-cyl turbo | Automatic (AM-S6) | Front-Wheel Drive | 42 / 44 / 43 | +57% | $1,550 | 206 |
| Sportage Hybrid AWD Hybrid | 1.6L 4-cyl turbo | Automatic (AM-S6) | All-Wheel Drive | 38 / 38 / 38 | +52% | $1,750 | 233 |
| Sportage Plug-in Hybrid Plug-in Hybrid | 1.6L 4-cyl turbo | Automatic (AM-S6) | All-Wheel Drive | 36 / 35 / 35 | +40% | $1,900 | 96 |
| Sportage FWD | 2.5L 4-cyl | Automatic (S8) | Front-Wheel Drive | 25 / 32 / 28 | +2% | $2,400 | 322 |
| Sportage AWD | 2.5L 4-cyl | Automatic (S8) | All-Wheel Drive | 23 / 28 / 25 | 0% | $2,700 | 357 |
9/10EPA fuel economy score (best version)
10/10EPA greenhouse gas score
Save $5,500Fuel over 5 years vs. average new car
27.4 MPG2023 Small Sport Utility Vehicle 2WD average
EPA estimates; "vs. class" is combined MPG against the 2023 EPA class average. How we calculate this →
Safety ratings & technology
| Version | Overall | Frontal | Driver / passenger | Side | Side pole | Rollover | Rollover risk |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 Kia Sportage SUV AWD | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | 5★ / 5★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | 16.9% |
| 2023 Kia Sportage SUV FWD | Not rated | ★★★★★ | 5★ / 5★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | Not rated | – |
StandardElectronic stability control
StandardForward collision warning
StandardLane departure warning
Similar 2023 small SUVs
| Model | Best MPG / range | NHTSA overall | Recalls |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 Kia Sportage (this car) | 43 MPG | ★★★★★ | 7 |
| 2023 Toyota RAV4 | 40 MPG | ★★★★★ | 3 |
| 2023 Toyota RAV4 Prime | 38 MPG | ★★★★★ | 2 |
| 2023 Honda CR-V | 40 MPG | ★★★★★ | 8 |
| 2023 Toyota 4Runner | 17 MPG | ★★★★★ | 1 |
| 2023 Hyundai Tucson | 38 MPG | ★★★★★ | 2 |
| 2023 Subaru Forester | 29 MPG | ★★★★★ | 1 |
Recalls (7)
Safety advisory: 1 recall for this model year carries a "Do Not Drive" or "Park Outside" warning. Check your VIN now.
Trailer Hitches · Dec 17, 2025
NHTSA campaign 25V874000 · 5,046 vehicles
- Problem
- Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2023-2025 Sportage Plug-In Hybrid Electric (PHEV) and 2024-2025 Sportage vehicles equipped with a 4.2" screen and a Genuine Kia tow hitch harness accessory. Due to a software error, the instrument panel screen may fail. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 101, "Controls and Displays."
- Risk
- An instrument panel screen that fails to display critical safety information, such as the speedometer or warning lights, can increase the risk of a crash.
- Fix
- Dealers will replace the tow hitch harness control module, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 13, 2026. Owners may contact Kia Customer Service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC359. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will be searchable on NHTSA.gov beginning December 31, 2025.
Structure › Body › Roof And Pillars · Jan 18, 2024
NHTSA campaign 24V025000 · 101,049 vehicles
- Problem
- Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2023-2024 Sportage and 2022-2024 Carnival vehicles. The roof molding may loosen and detach.
- Risk
- A detached roof molding can create a road hazard for other vehicles, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Fix
- Dealers will inspect the roof molding and replace or secure it as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 15, 2024. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC292.
Power Train › Automatic Transmission › Fluid/Lubricant › Pump · Jul 31, 2023 Park outside
NHTSA campaign 23V531000 · 39,765 vehicles
- Problem
- Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2023 Soul, Sportage, and 2023-2024 Seltos vehicles. The electronic controller for the Idle Stop & Go oil pump assembly may contain damaged electrical components that can cause the pump to overheat.
- Risk
- An electric oil pump assembly that overheats increases the risk of a vehicle fire.
- Fix
- Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will inspect and replace the electric oil pump controller, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed September 28, 2023. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC275.
Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Power Assist · Jun 7, 2023
NHTSA campaign 23V410000 · 98,944 vehicles
- Problem
- Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2023 Sportage vehicles. The brake booster diaphragm may become misaligned and cause an internal vacuum leak, which can result in a loss of power brake assist.
- Risk
- A loss of power brake assist can extend the distance required to stop, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Fix
- Dealers will inspect and replace the brake booster as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 21, 2023. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC272.
Electrical System › Instrument Cluster/Panel · Apr 26, 2023
NHTSA campaign 23V298000 · 108,936 vehicles
- Problem
- Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2023 Sportage, Sportage Hybrid, Sportage Plug-in Hybrid, Niro Hybrid, Niro Plug-in Hybrid, Soul, and Telluride vehicles equipped with a digital instrument cluster containing a 4.2" LCD screen.  The instrument cluster may fail to display any information when the vehicle is started.  As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard numbers 101, "Control and Displays," and 138, "Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems."
- Risk
- A blank instrument cluster display will not show critical information, such as tire pressure, warning messages, and warning lights, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Fix
- Dealers will update the instrument cluster software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 26, 2023. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC270.
Air Bags › Side/Window › Curtain · Nov 28, 2022
NHTSA campaign 22V878000 · 76,918 vehicles
- Problem
- Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2023 Sportage vehicles. The side curtain air bags may have been twisted during installation.
- Risk
- A twisted air bag can deploy improperly, increasing the risk of injury.
- Fix
- Dealers will inspect and reinstall the side curtain air bags as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 28, 2022. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC257.
Electrical System › Alternator/Generator/Regulator · Aug 29, 2022
NHTSA campaign 22V651000 · 19,701 vehicles
- Problem
- Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2023 Sportage vehicles. The alternator battery positive terminal nut may loosen, which can result in an engine stall or an electrical surge.
- Risk
- An engine stall increases the risk of a crash, and an electrical surge increases the risk of a fire.
- Fix
- Dealers will inspect and tighten the alternator battery positive terminal nut, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 23, 2022. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC248.
Not every 2023 Kia Sportage is affected — only a VIN check confirms your car.
Owner-reported problems
309Complaints to NHTSA since 2015
28Involved a crash
1Involved a fire
18Injuries reported
16,800 miTypical mileage at failure
Unverified owner reports; best-sellers collect more.
Used 2023 Kia Sportage buyer's checklist
- Run the VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. 7 recalls this year — ask for proof of repairs.
- Safety-critical recall. At least one recall carries a "Do Not Drive" or "Park Outside" warning. Do not buy until the VIN shows it was repaired.
- Electrical System — 82 owner reports. Test every window, lock, light, screen and USB port; check the battery age.
- Engine — 68 owner reports. Cold-start the engine, listen for knocking, and watch for warning lights or hesitation on acceleration.
- Service Brakes — 42 owner reports. Brake firmly from speed; check for pulling, pulsing pedal or ABS warning light.
- Mileage to watch. Owners typically reported problems around 16,800 miles; ask what was repaired near that point.
- Hybrid system. Check for hybrid-system warning lights and ask whether the high-voltage battery has been replaced or is still under warranty.
- Before you pay: service records, a history report and an independent inspection.
Generated by DecodedCars from NHTSA recalls and owner complaints for the 2023 Kia Sportage. Not a substitute for a professional inspection.
Other Sportage years
Compare all years →| Year | MPG (best) | Length | Overall | Recalls | Complaints |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2027 Sportage | 41 | 184.3 in | Not rated | 0 | 1 |
| 2026 Sportage | 42 | 184.3 in | Not rated | 1 | 40 |
| 2025 Sportage | 43 | 183.5 in | ★★★★★ | 1 | 75 |
| 2024 Sportage | 43 | 183.5 in | ★★★★★ | 3 | 110 |
| 2022 Sportage | 26 | 176.4 in | ★★★★★ | 1 | 46 |
| 2021 Sportage | 26 | 176.4 in | ★★★★★ | 2 | 54 |
| 2020 Sportage | 26 | 176.4 in | ★★★★★ | 2 | 164 |
| 2019 Sportage | 25 | 176.4 in | ★★★★★ | 2 | 71 |
| 2018 Sportage | 26 | 176.4 in | ★★★★★ | 3 | 165 |
| 2017 Sportage | 26 | 176.4 in | ★★★★★ | 4 | 404 |
| 2016 Sportage | 23 | 174.8 in | ★★★★★ | 2 | 134 |
| 2015 Sportage | 23 | 174.8 in | ★★★★★ | 2 | 146 |
Sources: EPA, NHTSA, Transport Canada, Wikimedia Commons. Not affiliated with NHTSA, the EPA or Kia. How we calculate this →