2026 Kia Sportage
The 2026 Kia Sportage is a SUV priced from $28,790 to $39,690 with 9 available trims. This page brings together safety ratings from NHTSA and IIHS, fuel economy data from the EPA, reliability scores from RepairPal, ownership cost estimates from AAA, and manufacturer specifications. Every number below is sourced from its original publisher and can be independently verified.
Among 95 value SUVs, the 2026 Kia Sportage earns a A for fuel cost. NHTSA rates it at 5 stars. RepairPal gives it 4.0 out of 5 for reliability. NHTSA has 1 recall campaign on file, fewer than the 1.8 average for SUVs.
What the published data indicates
Compared with similar SUVs in our dataset, the clearest positive signals for the 2026 Kia Sportage are high published crash-test results and lower estimated fuel cost, with an above-average RepairPal reliability rating.
- safety
- fuel cost
- reliability
Strongest published signals
- Safety: 5-star NHTSA + IIHS TSP+. Safest SUVs 2026 →
- Fuel: Top 20% cheapest to fuel among gas SUVs. Best-case annual fuel cost is $1,550. Cheapest SUVs to fuel 2026 →
- Reliability: RepairPal 4.0/5 from RepairPal. Most reliable SUVs 2026 →
Comparable models
- Starting MSRP
- $28,790 - $39,690
- EPA Combined MPG
- 24-28 MPG
- NHTSA Safety Rating
- 5-Star (Highest)
- IIHS Award
- Top Safety Pick+
- Est. Annual Fuel Cost
- $1,550 - $1,800/yr
- Recalls on File
- 1 recall on file
- Owner Complaints
- 5 on file
- Brand Origin
- South Korea
How Safe Is the 2026 Kia Sportage?
With both a 5-star NHTSA rating and an IIHS TSP+ designation, the 2026 Kia Sportage has passed the two most rigorous crash test programs in the United States. Among SUVs, 82% earned the top NHTSA score. Source: NHTSA.
Overall Safety
82% of SUVs share this top rating
| Category | Rating |
|---|---|
| Frontal Crash | |
| Side Crash | |
| Rollover |
Rollover Risk: 16.9%
NHTSA evaluates frontal, side, and rollover performance. IIHS adds small overlap and roof strength tests. Both sets of results are shown here.
How Did the 2026 Kia Sportage Perform in IIHS Crash Tests?
IIHS awarded the 2026 Kia Sportage a TSP+ designation, which requires good or acceptable ratings in all crashworthiness categories plus effective front crash prevention. IIHS tests are independent of NHTSA and use different crash configurations. Source: IIHS.
| Test | Rating |
|---|---|
| Small Overlap Front | G Good |
| Moderate Overlap Front | G Good |
| Side | G Good |
| Headlights | G Good |
| Front Crash Prevention (Vehicle) | G Good |
| Front Crash Prevention (Pedestrian) | G Good |
| Seat Belt Reminders | G Good |
| Child Seat Anchors (LATCH) | A Acceptable |
IIHS vehicle class: Small SUVs
Crash tests measure how a vehicle performs in a collision. Recall data reveals whether the manufacturer or NHTSA has found safety defects requiring correction.
Does the 2026 Kia Sportage Have Any Recalls?
NHTSA has 1 recall campaign on file for the 2026 Kia Sportage, affecting ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER/PANEL. This is fewer than the 1.8 average for SUVs. Recalls address safety-related defects identified by the manufacturer or NHTSA. Repairs for recalled vehicles are free at authorized dealers. Source: NHTSA.
1 recall campaign on file with NHTSA.
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER/PANEL
Most recent: January 2026
Units affected: 682,832
Owner-Reported Problems
NHTSA has 5 owner complaints on file for the 2026 Kia Sportage. The average for 2026 SUVs is 8 complaints. Owner complaints are self-reported and unverified, but patterns across many reports can indicate real issues.
3 in the last 90 days · most recent filed 2026-02-20
Most-reported problem areas
- Fuel System1
- Visibility1
- ADAS / Safety Tech1
- Electrical1
Source: NHTSA Vehicle Complaints Database. Data last refreshed 2026-03-07.
Safety data covered, the next consideration is what this vehicle costs to run. Fuel economy is where most owners feel the difference between trims.
What Is the 2026 Kia Sportage Fuel Economy?
The 2026 Kia Sportage achieves up to 28 combined MPG according to EPA testing, with an estimated annual fuel cost of $1,550. That is $154 more per year than the $1,396 average for value SUVs. EPA estimates are based on standardized laboratory tests. Source: EPA (fueleconomy.gov).
Ranges from 24 to 28 combined MPG depending on trim and drivetrain.
| Trim | Combined | City | Highway | Annual Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LX FWD GAS | 28 MPG | 25 | 33 | $1,550/yr |
| EX FWD GAS | 28 MPG | 25 | 33 | $1,550/yr |
| LX AWD GAS | 26 MPG | 24 | 30 | $1,700/yr |
| EX AWD GAS | 26 MPG | 24 | 30 | $1,700/yr |
| X-Line AWD GAS | 26 MPG | 24 | 30 | $1,700/yr |
| SX FWD GAS | 28 MPG | 25 | 33 | $1,550/yr |
| SX-Prestige FWD GAS | 28 MPG | 25 | 33 | $1,550/yr |
| SX-Prestige AWD GAS | 26 MPG | 24 | 30 | $1,700/yr |
| X-Pro Prestige AWD GAS | 24 MPG | 23 | 26 | $1,800/yr |
Fuel costs are predictable from EPA data. The less visible costs, insurance, maintenance, and depreciation, are estimated by AAA for this vehicle class.
What Does the 2026 Kia Sportage Cost to Own?
Estimated 5-year total ownership cost for the 2026 Kia Sportage ranges from $71,670 to $100,085 depending on trim, based on AAA's Your Driving Costs study for the Compact SUV class. This includes insurance, maintenance, depreciation, registration, and financing. These are class averages, not specific to this model. Source: AAA.
| Maintenance | $1,746/yr |
|---|---|
| Insurance | $1,726/yr |
| Depreciation | $3,554/yr |
| Registration & Taxes | $641/yr |
| Financing | $898/yr |
| Total (excluding fuel) | $10,279/yr |
| Cost per mile | $0.69/mi |
With 9 trims available, the cost and equipment differences are worth examining. The comparison below shows how price, fuel economy, and features vary.
How Do the 2026 Kia Sportage Trims Compare?
With 9 trims priced from $28,790 to $39,690, the 2026 Kia Sportage offers a range of equipment levels. All trims use a Gasoline powertrain. MSRP figures below do not include destination, taxes, or dealer fees.
| Trim | Base MSRP | Combined MPG | Est. Annual Fuel Cost | Drive Type | Curb Weight | Est. 5-Year Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| LX FWD GAS | $28,790 | 28 MPG | $1,550/yr | FWD | 3,697 lbs | $71,670 |
| EX FWD GAS | $30,590 | 28 MPG | $1,550/yr | FWD | 3,697 lbs | $73,470 |
| LX AWD GAS | $30,590 | 26 MPG | $1,700/yr | AWD | 3,827 lbs | $90,485 |
| EX AWD GAS | $32,390 | 26 MPG | $1,700/yr | AWD | 3,827 lbs | $92,285 |
| X-Line AWD GAS | $33,090 | 26 MPG | $1,700/yr | AWD | 3,827 lbs | $92,985 |
| SX FWD GAS | $34,390 | 28 MPG | $1,550/yr | FWD | 3,697 lbs | $77,270 |
| SX-Prestige FWD GAS | $36,390 | 28 MPG | $1,550/yr | FWD | 3,697 lbs | $79,270 |
| SX-Prestige AWD GAS | $38,190 | 26 MPG | $1,700/yr | AWD | 3,827 lbs | $98,085 |
| X-Pro Prestige AWD GAS | $39,690 | 24 MPG | $1,800/yr | AWD | 3,827 lbs | $100,085 |
The Kia Sportage lineup has contracted from 10 trims in 2024 to 9 trims in 2026. The entry price has increased $1,700 since 2024.
Trims no longer available
- X-Pro AWD GAS (last available 2025)
Price changes since 2024
- SX FWD GAS $32,590 (2024) → $34,390 (2026) +$1,800
- SX-Prestige FWD GAS $34,590 (2024) → $36,390 (2026) +$1,800
- SX-Prestige AWD GAS $36,390 (2024) → $38,190 (2026) +$1,800
- X-Pro Prestige AWD GAS $37,890 (2024) → $39,690 (2026) +$1,800
- LX FWD GAS $27,090 (2024) → $28,790 (2026) +$1,700
- LX AWD GAS $28,890 (2024) → $30,590 (2026) +$1,700
- EX FWD GAS $29,090 (2024) → $30,590 (2026) +$1,500
- EX AWD GAS $30,890 (2024) → $32,390 (2026) +$1,500
- X-Line AWD GAS $31,890 (2024) → $33,090 (2026) +$1,200
View full trim timeline (2024–2026)
| Trim | 2024 | 2025 | 2026 |
|---|---|---|---|
| LX FWD GAS | $27,090 28 MPG | $27,390 28 MPG | $28,790 28 MPG |
| LX AWD GAS | $28,890 25 MPG | $29,190 25 MPG | $30,590 26 MPG |
| EX FWD GAS | $29,090 28 MPG | $29,490 28 MPG | $30,590 28 MPG |
| EX AWD GAS | $30,890 25 MPG | $31,290 25 MPG | $32,390 26 MPG |
| X-Line AWD GAS | $31,890 25 MPG | $32,290 25 MPG | $33,090 26 MPG |
| SX FWD GAS | $32,590 28 MPG | $32,990 28 MPG | $34,390 28 MPG |
| SX-Prestige FWD GAS | $34,590 28 MPG | $34,990 28 MPG | $36,390 28 MPG |
| X-Pro AWD GAS | $36,090 26 MPG | $36,490 26 MPG | — |
| SX-Prestige AWD GAS | $36,390 25 MPG | $36,790 25 MPG | $38,190 26 MPG |
| X-Pro Prestige AWD GAS | $37,890 26 MPG | $38,290 26 MPG | $39,690 24 MPG |
Compare Trim Costs
Select two trims and adjust your driving and financing to see how monthly costs compare. Only costs we can compute from EPA data and your inputs are shown. No estimates, no guesses.
Your driving & financing
Beyond the purchase decision, the next question is long-term dependability. Here is the reliability rating currently available for this vehicle.
How Reliable Is the 2026 Kia Sportage?
With a 4.0/5.0 reliability score from RepairPal, the 2026 Kia Sportage rates above average for value SUVs. Fewer shop visits and lower repair costs are expected compared to peers. Source: RepairPal.
Kia backs this vehicle with the following warranty terms. Coverage begins from the original purchase date.
What Warranty Does the 2026 Kia Sportage Come With?
Kia provides the following warranty coverage for the 2026 Sportage. Warranty terms are published by the manufacturer and apply to all trims. Coverage begins from the date of original purchase. Warranty terms shown here reflect the most recently published manufacturer data.
| Basic Warranty | 5yr/60k |
|---|---|
| Powertrain Warranty | 10yr/100k |
| Corrosion Warranty | 5yr/100k |
| Roadside Assistance | 5yr/60k |
What Are the 2026 Kia Sportage Specs?
Detailed specifications for the 2026 Kia Sportage as reported by the manufacturer. Specifications may vary by trim, market, and production date. Source: manufacturer-reported data.
| Engine | 2.5L I4 |
|---|---|
| Horsepower | 187 hp |
| Torque | 178 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drive Type | Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive |
| Fuel Type | regular unleaded |
| Fuel Tank | 14.3 gal |
| Length | 184.4 in |
|---|---|
| Width | 73.4 in |
| Height | 65.4 - 66.9 in |
| Wheelbase | 108.5 in |
| Curb Weight | 3,697 - 3,827 lbs |
What Changed for the 2026 Kia Sportage?
- Number of available trims changed
- Pricing changed across one or more trims
- EPA fuel economy ratings changed
That is the complete data picture for the 2026 Kia Sportage based on published data from EPA, NHTSA, IIHS, AAA, manufacturers, and selected third-party references as of the dates shown above. If any of these agencies publishes updated data, this page will reflect those changes automatically. For questions about how this data is collected and verified, see our methodology page.
2026 Kia Sportage FAQ
How does the 2026 Kia Sportage compare to other suvs?
Based on published data, the 2026 Kia Sportage has a safety grade of A, a fuel cost grade of A, a RepairPal reliability score of 4.0/5, and only 1 recall on file. These grades compare it against similar suvs in its price range. No single metric tells the whole story, so we recommend reviewing each section on this page. See our Safest SUVs 2026 list.
Which 2026 Kia Sportage trim has the lowest ownership cost?
Among 9 available trims, the LX FWD GAS has the lowest estimated five-year ownership cost at $71,670, starting at $28,790 MSRP. The most expensive trim to own is about $100,085. See the full trim comparison table above for a side-by-side breakdown.
How much does 2026 Kia Sportage insurance cost?
AAA estimates the annual insurance cost for the Compact SUV class at $1,726 per year, or about $144 per month. This is a class-level average, not specific to the 2026 Kia Sportage. Your actual premium will depend on your driving history, location, and coverage choices. Source: AAA Your Driving Costs study.
How much does 2026 Kia Sportage maintenance cost per year?
AAA estimates average annual maintenance for the Compact SUV class at $1,746 per year. This covers routine services, wear items, and unscheduled repairs. Combined with insurance ($1,726/yr) and depreciation ($3,554/yr), total non-fuel ownership costs run about $10,279 per year. These are class averages from the AAA Your Driving Costs study.
How fast does a 2026 Kia Sportage depreciate?
AAA estimates the Compact SUV class depreciates about $3,554 per year, or roughly $17,770 over five years. On a base MSRP of $28,790, that represents about 62% of the purchase price. These are class averages and actual depreciation varies by trim, condition, mileage, and market demand. Source: AAA.
How much will I spend on gas with a 2026 Kia Sportage?
The most efficient 2026 Kia Sportage trim costs an estimated $1,550 per year in fuel, or about $129 per month, based on EPA ratings and national average fuel prices. That is about $154 more than the average for similar suvs. See our Cheapest SUVs to fuel 2026 list.
What vehicles compete with the 2026 Kia Sportage?
Based on price range, body type, and segment positioning, the closest competitors to the 2026 Kia Sportage include 2026 Nissan Rogue, 2026 Hyundai Tucson, and 2026 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross. Each of those pages includes the same safety, fuel cost, reliability, and recall data so you can compare directly. Browse all 2026 SUVs.
What changed on the 2026 Kia Sportage from last year?
Compared to the previous model year, 1 trim was dropped and the entry price increased by $1,700 for the Kia Sportage lineup. See the trim evolution timeline above for full year-by-year pricing and availability details.
How much does a 2026 Kia Sportage cost per month to own?
Excluding your car payment, estimated monthly costs for the 2026 Kia Sportage include about $857 for insurance, maintenance, depreciation, and fees, plus roughly $129 for fuel. That puts non-payment running costs around $986 per month. These are estimates based on AAA class averages and EPA fuel data. Actual costs depend on your driving, location, and coverage.
Is the 2026 Kia Sportage safe for families?
The 2026 Kia Sportage earned NHTSA's highest 5-star overall safety rating, which evaluates frontal crash, side crash, and rollover resistance. It also earned IIHS TSP+ recognition, which tests different crash scenarios. A 5-star rating does not guarantee safety in every situation but indicates strong performance in standardized crash tests. See our Safest SUVs 2026 list.
Compare to Similar Vehicles
Other Model Years
Data on this page is compiled from government agencies and independent research organizations. It is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, purchasing, or safety advice. Verify all data with the original source before making decisions.