2023 Kia Sportage Hybrid

Not only was the Kia Sportage redesigned for the new year, but 2023 brings with it the brand-new Hybrid and Plug-In Hybrid Sportage models, too. The fifth-generation Sportage is much more striking and distinctive, and it's grown in size to provide even more cabin room and cargo space - but that's not all that has expanded. The lineup now includes HEV and PHEV variants, both equipped with a 1.6-liter turbo-four engine supplemented by a single electric motor and high-output battery. In the Hybrid, the powertrain develops up to 227 horsepower, making it more powerful and responsive than the 187-hp four-cylinder engine in the gasoline-only Sportage. The powertrain in the PHEV provides even more grunt, courtesy of a stronger electric motor and battery, and grants the plug-in Sportage 261 hp and a 32-mile all-electric driving range. A six-speed automatic transmission is standard across the board, and while the entry-spec HEV can be had in either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, the rest of the lineup comes exclusively in AWD.

The new Sportage SUV also comes extensively outfitted with comforts, conveniences, and some truly impressive tech, and can tow up to 2,000 pounds when properly equipped. Though some stalwart competitors such as the Hyundai Tucson Hybrid, Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, and even the Ford Escape Hybrid are more conventionally styled, the Sportage makes a strong case for itself.

While the new Kia Sportage Hybrid SUV doesn't offer a particularly thrilling drive, the hybrid models do handle better than the gas-only models, in our opinion. Not only does the added weight lend itself to better road holding, but it gets more power and torque than the regular models, making it feel more energetic. Thanks to the redesign, the Sportage hybrids now also ride on a wheelbase that is 3.4 inches longer than the previous model, which aids ride comfort signficantly. Bumps and jostles are smoothed over and passengers will not have to bump shoulders unless they want to.

As for off-roading ability, none of the hybrids are designed to tackle the road less traveled. Sure, some of the trims offer a bit of a rugged aesthetic, but this isn't it's forte. Instead, capitalize on the lithe handing, easy maneuvering, and satisfying acceleration between traffic lights.

Its striking presence may not be everyone's cup of tea following the Kia Sportage's redesign, but with both the new HEV and PHEV offering more power, more room, and more in the way of high-end technology, the Sportage is a compelling package. While they offer good performance, the numb steering and unexciting drive don't do the Sportage Hybrid any favors. It works in the city environment, however, with an easy-to-drive nature that makes regular excursions pleasant enough. It's fairly fuel-efficient, too, and if you're willing to spend the extra money, the PHEV will also offer you a decent 32-miles of range on a single charge.

The Sportage is dependable and comfortable, and with the increase of over seven inches in length and a longer wheelbase, there is now more room for rear-seat passengers and cargo, too. Occupants also get to enjoy the abundance of new tech Kia has equipped the compact SUV with, including a massive 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen that comes with full smartphone integration and an available dual panoramic curved display that joins two screens for up to 25-inches of screen space. The Sportage also comes standard with a comprehensive consignment of advanced driver-assistance features and safety gear, including driver attention warning, lane following assist, lane keep assist, forward collision avoidance, and reverse parking distance warning. There are even more impressive features available on the options list, making the family crossover a value-for-money buy.