2026 Kia Sportage Plug-In Hybrid
This page covers the 2026 Kia Sportage Plug-In Hybrid, a SUV available in 2 trims from $40,490 to $47,190. Below you will find crash test ratings, fuel cost data, reliability scores, recall history, ownership costs, and manufacturer specifications, each sourced and linked to the original publisher.
The 2026 Kia Sportage Plug-In Hybrid earns a B for fuel cost among mid-range SUVs. NHTSA has no recall campaigns on file for this vehicle.
What the published data indicates
Published crash-test coverage is incomplete for the 2026 Kia Sportage Plug-In Hybrid. Within the currently available data, the clearest positive signals are an above-average RepairPal reliability rating and lower estimated fuel cost, with lower estimated five-year cost.
- reliability
- fuel cost
- estimated 5-year cost
Strongest published signals
- Reliability: RepairPal 4.0/5 from RepairPal. Most reliable SUVs 2026 →
- Fuel: Below-average fuel cost among hybrid SUVs. Best-case annual fuel cost is $1,200. Cheapest SUVs to fuel 2026 →
- Best estimated five-year cost in the lineup is about $10,615 below the similar-vehicle average. Lowest cost to own 2026 →
Limits and cautions
- Crash-test coverage is incomplete: NHTSA data is not available for this model yet.
Comparable models
- Starting MSRP
- $40,490 - $47,190
- EPA Combined MPG
- 36 MPG
- IIHS Award
- Top Safety Pick+
- Est. Annual Fuel Cost
- $1,200/yr
- Recalls on File
- No recalls on file
- EPA: vs Avg Vehicle
- Save $2,500 over 5 yrs
- Brand Origin
- South Korea
NHTSA and IIHS test vehicles independently using different crash scenarios. Together, they provide the most complete picture of a vehicle's crashworthiness.
How Did the 2026 Kia Sportage Plug-In Hybrid Perform in IIHS Crash Tests?
IIHS awarded the 2026 Kia Sportage Plug-In Hybrid 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
Beyond crash test performance, the recall record shows whether the manufacturer has identified and addressed any safety-related defects after the vehicle went on sale.
Does the 2026 Kia Sportage Plug-In Hybrid Have Any Recalls?
NHTSA has no recall campaigns on file for the 2026 Kia Sportage Plug-In Hybrid. For context, the average SUV has 1.8 recall campaigns. Recalls can be issued at any time as new issues are identified. Source: NHTSA.
No recalls on file with NHTSA
Owner-Reported Problems
NHTSA complaint data is not available for the 2026 Kia Sportage Plug-In Hybrid. This does not mean there are no complaints. The model may not yet be tracked in the NHTSA database.
Source: NHTSA Vehicle Complaints Database. Data last refreshed 2026-03-07.
With the safety picture established, the next question is cost. Fuel is typically the largest variable expense for most drivers.
What Is the 2026 Kia Sportage Plug-In Hybrid Fuel Economy?
The most fuel-efficient 2026 Kia Sportage Plug-In Hybrid trim achieves 36 combined MPG, with an estimated annual fuel cost of $1,200. That is $508 less per year than the $1,708 average for mid-range SUVs. Actual fuel economy depends on driving conditions and habits. Source: EPA (fueleconomy.gov).
| Trim | Combined | City | Highway | Annual Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| X-Line | 36 MPG | 35 | 36 | $1,200/yr |
| X-Line Prestige | 36 MPG | 35 | 36 | $1,200/yr |
Fuel is only one part of the ownership cost equation. AAA estimates the full picture: insurance, maintenance, depreciation, and financing.
What Does the 2026 Kia Sportage Plug-In Hybrid Cost to Own?
Estimated 5-year total ownership cost for the 2026 Kia Sportage Plug-In Hybrid ranges from $82,125 to $88,825 depending on trim, based on AAA's Your Driving Costs study for the Compact SUV (Hybrid) class. This includes insurance, maintenance, depreciation, registration, and financing. These are class averages, not specific to this model. Source: AAA.
| Maintenance | $1,491/yr |
|---|---|
| Insurance | $1,771/yr |
| Depreciation | $3,865/yr |
| Registration & Taxes | $779/yr |
| Financing | $1,086/yr |
| Total (excluding fuel) | $10,340/yr |
Total cost varies significantly by trim. The table below breaks down each trim so you can see exactly where your money goes.
How Do the 2026 Kia Sportage Plug-In Hybrid Trims Compare?
The 2026 Kia Sportage Plug-In Hybrid is available in 2 trims, with base prices ranging from $40,490 to $47,190. All trims use a Plug-In Hybrid powertrain. The table below compares key specifications and costs across all available trims. Prices shown are manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) and do not include destination charges, dealer fees, taxes, or incentives.
X-Line
| Base MSRP | $40,490 |
|---|---|
| Combined MPG | 36 MPG |
| EV Range (mi) | 470 mi |
| Est. Annual Fuel Cost | $1,200/yr |
| Drive Type | All-Wheel Drive |
| Horsepower | 268 hp |
| Est. 5-Year Cost | $82,125 |
X-Line Prestige
| Base MSRP | $47,190 |
|---|---|
| Combined MPG | 36 MPG |
| EV Range (mi) | 470 mi |
| Est. Annual Fuel Cost | $1,200/yr |
| Drive Type | All-Wheel Drive |
| Horsepower | 268 hp |
| Est. 5-Year Cost | $88,825 |
The entry price has increased $900 since 2024.
Price changes since 2024
- X-Line Prestige $44,090 (2024) → $47,190 (2026) +$3,100
- X-Line $39,590 (2024) → $40,490 (2026) +$900
View full trim timeline (2024–2026)
| Trim | 2024 | 2025 | 2026 |
|---|---|---|---|
| X-Line | $39,590 35 MPG | $39,890 35 MPG | $40,490 36 MPG |
| X-Line Prestige | $44,090 35 MPG | $44,390 35 MPG | $47,190 36 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
Choosing a trim is also about long-term dependability. The section below shows the third-party reliability rating available for this model.
How Reliable Is the 2026 Kia Sportage Plug-In Hybrid?
RepairPal rates the 2026 Kia Sportage Plug-In Hybrid at 4.0 out of 5.0 for reliability, above average for mid-range SUVs. This means lower expected repair frequency and cost compared to similar vehicles. Source: RepairPal.
The manufacturer's warranty provides a baseline of coverage. Here is what Kia includes.
What Warranty Does the 2026 Kia Sportage Plug-In Hybrid Come With?
Kia provides the following warranty coverage for the 2026 Sportage Plug-In Hybrid. 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 Plug-In Hybrid Specs?
Detailed specifications for the 2026 Kia Sportage Plug-In Hybrid as reported by the manufacturer. Specifications may vary by trim, market, and production date. Source: manufacturer-reported data.
| Engine | 1.6L I4 |
|---|---|
| Horsepower | 268 hp |
| Torque | 271 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drive Type | All-Wheel Drive |
| Fuel Type | regular unleaded |
| Fuel Tank | 11.1 gal |
| Length | 184.4 in |
|---|---|
| Width | 73.4 in |
| Height | 66.9 in |
| Wheelbase | 108.5 in |
| Curb Weight | 4,307 lbs |
What Changed for the 2026 Kia Sportage Plug-In Hybrid?
- Pricing changed across one or more trims
- EPA fuel economy ratings changed
Data Coverage
The following data categories are not yet available for the 2026 Kia Sportage Plug-In Hybrid: NHTSA has not yet published crash test results for this vehicle. Learn how we collect, verify, and present vehicle data.
All data shown for the 2026 Kia Sportage Plug-In Hybrid comes from EPA, NHTSA, IIHS, AAA, manufacturers, and selected third-party references. This page updates automatically when source agencies publish new information. See our methodology page for details on data collection and verification.
2026 Kia Sportage Plug-In Hybrid FAQ
How does the 2026 Kia Sportage Plug-In Hybrid compare to other suvs?
Based on published data, the 2026 Kia Sportage Plug-In Hybrid has a fuel cost grade of B, a RepairPal reliability score of 4.0/5, and zero recalls 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.
How much does 2026 Kia Sportage Plug-In Hybrid insurance cost?
AAA estimates the annual insurance cost for the Compact SUV (Hybrid) class at $1,771 per year, or about $148 per month. This is a class-level average, not specific to the 2026 Kia Sportage Plug-In Hybrid. 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 Plug-In Hybrid maintenance cost per year?
AAA estimates average annual maintenance for the Compact SUV (Hybrid) class at $1,491 per year. This covers routine services, wear items, and unscheduled repairs. Combined with insurance ($1,771/yr) and depreciation ($3,865/yr), total non-fuel ownership costs run about $10,340 per year. These are class averages from the AAA Your Driving Costs study.
How fast does a 2026 Kia Sportage Plug-In Hybrid depreciate?
AAA estimates the Compact SUV (Hybrid) class depreciates about $3,865 per year, or roughly $19,325 over five years. On a base MSRP of $40,490, that represents about 48% 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 Plug-In Hybrid?
The most efficient 2026 Kia Sportage Plug-In Hybrid trim costs an estimated $1,200 per year in fuel, or about $100 per month, based on EPA ratings and national average fuel prices. That is about $508 less than the average for similar suvs. See our Cheapest SUVs to fuel 2026 list.
What vehicles compete with the 2026 Kia Sportage Plug-In Hybrid?
Based on price range, body type, and segment positioning, the closest competitors to the 2026 Kia Sportage Plug-In Hybrid include 2026 Subaru Ascent, 2026 Chevrolet Traverse, and 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee L. 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 Plug-In Hybrid from last year?
Compared to the previous model year, the entry price increased by $900 for the Kia Sportage Plug-In Hybrid lineup. See the trim evolution timeline above for full year-by-year pricing and availability details.
How much does a 2026 Kia Sportage Plug-In Hybrid cost per month to own?
Excluding your car payment, estimated monthly costs for the 2026 Kia Sportage Plug-In Hybrid include about $862 for insurance, maintenance, depreciation, and fees, plus roughly $100 for fuel. That puts non-payment running costs around $962 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 Plug-In Hybrid a plug-in hybrid?
The 2026 Kia Sportage Plug-In Hybrid is a plug-in hybrid (PHEV), which means it can drive on electric power alone for short distances and then switches to a gas-electric hybrid mode. EPA rates it at 36 MPG. Plug-in hybrids offer the best fuel savings when charged regularly. See our Plug-in hybrids 2026 list.
Has the 2026 Kia Sportage Plug-In Hybrid been recalled?
No. As of this writing, NHTSA has zero recall campaigns on file for the 2026 Kia Sportage Plug-In Hybrid. Recalls can be issued at any time, so this status may change. You can check for updates on the NHTSA website. See our Zero-recall cars 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.