One of the original models from when Kia first entered the U.S. Market, the Kia Sportage continues to be a popular choice in its class. The 2023 Kia Sportage is one of the largest models in the compact crossover SUV class, giving consumers more rear legroom and cargo capacity than other models. Now, several years and generations away from the first models of this SUV, we see a sophisticated, confident, and attractive SUV wearing the Sportage name. Is this version still affordable in its class?

How much does a 2023 Kia Sportage cost?

Seven trim levels make up the Sportage lineup offering a price range that could fit your budget. According to the Kia media page, the pricing for the Sportage is:

• LX trim – $25,990 (FWD), $27,790 (AWD)
• EX trim – $27,990 (FWD), $29,790 (AWD)
• X-Line trim – $30,790 (AWD only)
• SX trim – $31,490 (FWD), $33,290 (AWD)
• SX-Prestige trim – $33,490 (FWD), $35,290 (AWD)
• X-Pro trim – $34,990 (AWD only)
• X-Pro Prestige trim – $36,790 (AWD only)

Comparatively, the 2023 version of the Toyota RAV4 will start at approximately $27,000, making the Sportage a little more affordable.

How spacious is the Sportage SUV?

Not only will you find an affordable SUV when you drive the Kia Sportage, but you’ll find a roomy one. The front legroom for 2023 continues to be 41.4 inches, giving the driver and front passenger plenty of space for their legs. Rear passengers will have 4.12 inches, increasing from 38.2 inches in the 2022 version. According to Kelley Blue Book, this added legroom takes nothing away from the rear cargo space, measuring a cavernous 39.6 cubic feet with the rear seats up.

One bonus you’ll find in the cargo area of the new Sportage is the dual-level cargo floor, which gives you a small area under the upper floor area for items you want to have along in case of an emergency.

What’s new for the 2023 model year?

If you’re waiting to buy your new SUV until the next model year begins, the Sportage could be on top of your list. This SUV brings an all-new design, and it will bring hybrid and PHEV models to the mix in the near future. The new Sportage comes from the Kia plant in West Point, Georgia. A new curved display measuring nearly 25 inches gives you the information you want during a drive. If you’re looking for a large SUV in the compact class, you’ll appreciate the fact that the Sportage is much larger than before.

What are the new X-Pro trims of the Sportage?

When reviewing the pricing list, you see the X-Pro, and X-Pro Prestige trims come with AWD but not FWD. These two trims are new rugged models made for some fun out on the trails. You’ll enjoy an extra 1.5 inches of ground clearance with these trims compared to the rest of the Sportage lineup. These models also bring you BFGoodrich all-terrain tires and a multi-terrain AWD system with dirt-specific settings.

Forget the blind spots with this Kia SUV

The Kia Sportage brings a Blind-Spot View Monitor to the features list as an option. Select this feature, and you’ve got a video feed of your blind area when you activate the turn signal. This feature allows you to see what’s going on in the lane next to you so that you can avoid trouble. Kia gives you Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist to supplement this system, which automatically applies brakes to keep you from changing lanes when you shouldn’t.

Do you want to drive the new Kia Sportage?

If you’re looking for a compact crossover SUV that isn’t as compact as most models, the Kia Sportage is the SUV you want to drive. This vehicle offers the largest cabin in the class. For 2023, the Sportage maintains its affordability while adding more driving dynamics and safety features to the mix. You might see other names that you recognize more easily in this class, but none give you what the new 2023 Sportage brings.