2026 KIA Sportage EX

The 2026 Kia Sportage is a compact SUV that slots between the smaller Seltos and the larger Sorento, offering a blend of style and practicality. It competes directly with the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and Mazda CX-5, standing out with its bold design and available hybrid powertrains. The Sportage drives with a composed, refined feel, and the hybrid versions deliver strong acceleration while keeping fuel costs low. Its ride is smooth and well-controlled over most surfaces, though the larger wheels on upper trims transmit more road imperfections. Inside, the cabin is roomy and modern, with a dual-screen layout and generous cargo space that makes it a practical family choice. The EX adds synthetic leather seating, heated front seats, a power driver's seat, and dual-zone automatic climate control over the base LX. Its 2.5L I4 makes 187 horsepower and pairs with an eight-speed automatic for smooth, predictable power delivery, earning 26 mpg combined. The EX comes standard with front-wheel drive, but this example has all-wheel drive for added traction in rain or snow.