2026 Kia Sportage: NHTSA & IIHS Safety Ratings, Price
— NHTSA, IIHS, EPA, AAA, RepairPal
The 2026 Kia Sportage scores well across safety, fuel cost, and reliability, with NHTSA's 5-star rating and IIHS Top Safety Pick+ designation compared to 95 other value SUVs. NHTSA has 1 recall campaign on file, fewer than the 1.7 average for SUVs.
- Starting MSRP
- $28,790 - $39,690
- EPA Combined MPG
- 26-28 MPG
- NHTSA Safety Rating
- 5-Star (Highest)
- IIHS Award
- Top Safety Pick+
- Est. Annual Fuel Cost
- $2,150 - $2,300 per year
- EPA GHG Score
- 5 / 10
- Recalls on File
- 1 recall on file
- Owner Complaints
- 9 on file
- Est. Monthly Cost (with fuel)
- $1,036 per month
- Est. Cost per Mile (with fuel)
- $0.69
- Brand Origin
- South Korea
The 2026 Kia Sportage is a SUV priced from $28,790 to $39,690 with 9 trims. For a vehicle your family depends on, the safety, recall, and long-term cost data below is where the decision starts.
- Avg repair cost $216 per year below SUV average
- 5-year ownership cost $5,059 below value SUVs average
- IIHS Top Safety Pick+
2026 Kia Sportage at a Glance
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
Strengths in the data
- Safety: 5-star NHTSA + IIHS TSP+. Safest SUVs 2026 →
- Fuel: Top 20% cheapest to fuel among gas SUVs. Best-case annual fuel cost is $2,150. Cheapest SUVs to fuel 2026 →
- Reliability: RepairPal 4.0/5 from RepairPal. Most reliable SUVs 2026 →
Similar vehicles to compare
How Safe Is the 2026 Kia Sportage?
With both a 5-star NHTSA rating and an IIHS TSP+ designation, the 2026 Kia Sportage has been tested by both NHTSA and IIHS crash test programs. 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 focuses on how the vehicle protects occupants in government-standard crashes. IIHS also evaluates crash avoidance technology and headlight performance, which matter for preventing collisions in the first place.
How Did the 2026 Kia Sportage Perform in IIHS Crash Tests?
The 2026 Kia Sportage earned an IIHS TSP+. To qualify, a vehicle must score well across all crash test categories and demonstrate effective crash prevention technology. 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
Once you are comfortable with the crash test picture, the next thing to check is whether any safety-related defects have been found. All recall repairs are free at authorized Kia dealers.
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 1.7 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
What Do 2026 Kia Sportage Owners Report to NHTSA?
NHTSA has 9 owner complaints on file for the 2026 Kia Sportage. The average for 2026 SUVs is 9 complaints. Owner complaints are self-reported and unverified, but patterns across many reports can indicate real issues.
5 in the last 90 days · most recent filed 2026-03-21
Safety-relevant complaints: At least one complaint includes crash reported. Review individual reports on NHTSA.gov for details.
Most-reported problem areas
- Fuel System3
- ADAS / Safety Tech3
- Electrical2
- Brakes2
- Structure1
Source: NHTSA Vehicle Complaints Database. Data last refreshed 2026-04-16.
For a vehicle your family depends on daily, fuel cost adds up fast. The EPA data below shows how the 2026 Kia Sportage's efficiency compares to other SUVs in its price range.
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 $2,150. That is $258 more per year than the $1,892 average for value SUVs. EPA estimates are based on standardized laboratory tests. Source: EPA (fueleconomy.gov).
Ranges from 26 to 28 combined MPG depending on trim and drivetrain.
| Trim | Combined | City | Highway | Annual Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LX FWD GAS | 28 MPG | 25 | 33 | $2,150 per year |
| EX FWD GAS | 28 MPG | 25 | 33 | $2,150 per year |
| LX AWD GAS | 26 MPG | 24 | 30 | $2,300 per year |
| EX AWD GAS | 26 MPG | 24 | 30 | $2,300 per year |
| X-Line AWD GAS | 26 MPG | 24 | 30 | $2,300 per year |
| SX FWD GAS | 28 MPG | 25 | 33 | $2,150 per year |
| SX-Prestige FWD GAS | 28 MPG | 25 | 33 | $2,150 per year |
| SX-Prestige AWD GAS | 26 MPG | 24 | 30 | $2,300 per year |
| X-Pro Prestige AWD GAS | 26 MPG | 24 | 30 | $2,300 per year |
Estimated 5-year fuel costs range from $10,750 to $11,500 depending on trim.
The most efficient trim ranks in the top 36% for fuel cost within its EPA vehicle class.
Fuel is the cost you plan for. Insurance, maintenance, and depreciation are the costs that surprise you three years in. For a vehicle your family depends on daily, the full ownership picture matters.
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 per year |
|---|---|
| Insurance | $1,726 per year |
| Depreciation | $3,554 per year |
| Registration & Taxes | $641 per year |
| Financing | $898 per year |
| Total (excluding fuel) | $10,279 per year |
| Cost per mile | $0.69 per mile |
For a family vehicle, the trim choice comes down to which safety features, space, and cost level fit your household. The comparison below shows all 9 options side by side.
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 | $2,150 per year | FWD | 3,697 lbs | $71,670 |
| EX FWD GAS | $30,590 | 28 MPG | $2,150 per year | FWD | 3,697 lbs | $73,470 |
| LX AWD GAS | $30,590 | 26 MPG | $2,300 per year | AWD | 3,827 lbs | $90,485 |
| EX AWD GAS | $32,390 | 26 MPG | $2,300 per year | AWD | 3,827 lbs | $92,285 |
| X-Line AWD GAS | $33,090 | 26 MPG | $2,300 per year | AWD | 3,827 lbs | $92,985 |
| SX FWD GAS | $34,390 | 28 MPG | $2,150 per year | FWD | 3,697 lbs | $77,270 |
| SX-Prestige FWD GAS | $36,390 | 28 MPG | $2,150 per year | FWD | 3,697 lbs | $79,270 |
| SX-Prestige AWD GAS | $38,190 | 26 MPG | $2,300 per year | AWD | 3,827 lbs | $98,085 |
| X-Pro Prestige AWD GAS | $39,690 | 26 MPG | $2,300 per year | 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
last available 2025
- X-Pro AWD GAS
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 25 MPG | $36,490 25 MPG | — |
| SX-Prestige AWD GAS | $36,390 25 MPG | $36,790 25 MPG | $38,190 26 MPG |
| X-Pro Prestige AWD GAS | $37,890 25 MPG | $38,290 25 MPG | $39,690 26 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
Buying the right trim is the short-term decision. The reliability section below addresses the long-term one: how often will this vehicle need repairs, and how much will they cost?
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.
How confident is Kia in the 2026 Sportage? The warranty terms below show exactly what they are willing to cover and for how long.
What Warranty Does the 2026 Kia Sportage Come With?
Kia provides the following warranty coverage for the 2026 Sportage. Coverage periods start from the original purchase date and vary by component. Source: manufacturer-published warranty terms.
| Basic Warranty | 5yr/60k |
|---|---|
| Powertrain Warranty | 10yr/100k |
| Corrosion Warranty | 5yr/100k |
| Roadside Assistance | 5yr/60k |
What Are the 2026 Kia Sportage Specs?
Core specifications for the 2026 Kia Sportage as reported by the manufacturer. Figures may vary by trim, option packages, and production date. Source: manufacturer data.
EPA vehicle class: Compact SUV
| Engine | 2.5L I4 |
|---|---|
| Horsepower | 187 hp |
| Power-to-Weight | 101.2 hp per ton |
| Price per HP | $154 - $212 |
| 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 |
| Est. Range per Tank | 400 miles per tank (EPA combined) |
| 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. For a family vehicle, the safety ratings, recall history, and long-term cost data above are the sections that matter most. Data is refreshed periodically.
Source links
Verify this data
2026 Kia Sportage FAQ
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.
What vehicles compete with the 2026 Kia Sportage?
The 2026 Kia Sportage competes with 2026 Nissan Rogue, 2026 Hyundai Tucson, and 2026 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross based on price, size, and segment. Each of those vehicles has its own fact sheet with the same EPA, NHTSA, IIHS, and cost data shown here. 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 $179 for fuel. That puts non-payment running costs around $1,036 per month. These are estimates based on AAA class averages and EPA fuel data. Actual costs depend on your driving, location, and coverage.
Where is Kia based?
Kia is a South Korea-based automaker. The 2026 Kia Sportage may be assembled in a different country than where Kia is headquartered. Check the window sticker or VIN decoder for the specific assembly location of any individual vehicle. See our South Korea-brand cars 2026 list.
What other Kia models are available for 2026?
Each 2026 Kia model on this site has its own fact sheet covering available safety, fuel, reliability, cost, and recall data. Visit our Kia models page for the full lineup.
What is the 2026 Kia Sportage safety rating?
The 2026 Kia Sportage earned a 5-star overall safety rating from NHTSA and has 1 recall campaign on file. See the safety and recall sections above for the full breakdown, including IIHS results and specific recall details.
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.