2025 Kia Sportage Hybrid
Pros
Outstanding fuel economy
Strong 227-hp hybrid, top-tier for class
Spacious cabin and cargo area
Strong standard safety tech and warranty
Cons
Higher upfront cost than the non-hybrid Sportage
Comfort-focused steering, lacks sportiness
No dedicated off-road hybrid trim

2025 Kia Sportage Hybrid

Starting MSRP*
$28,790

Our Verdict

The 2025 Kia Sportage Hybrid is a stylish, fuel-efficient compact SUV with strong power and a roomy, tech-filled cabin, but it’s not built for off-roading or sporty driving.

Best For

Small FamiliesDaily Commuters

Not Ideal For

Off-Road Enthusiasts
Pros
Outstanding fuel economy
Strong 227-hp hybrid, top-tier for class
Spacious cabin and cargo area
Strong standard safety tech and warranty
Cons
Higher upfront cost than the non-hybrid Sportage
Comfort-focused steering, lacks sportiness
No dedicated off-road hybrid trim

Car Specifications

Trim
Engine Type
Horsepower
MPG (City/Hwy)
Seating
Cargo (cu.ft.)
Transmission
MSRP (Starting)
Car Type
About Image

About The 2025 Kia Sportage Hybrid

The 2025 Kia Sportage Hybrid is a stylish and fuel-efficient two-row SUV that’s perfect for commuters and small families who want space, performance, and savings at the pump. With a bold design and a powerful 227-hp hybrid engine, it offers more muscle than most rivals.

Inside, you’ll find a roomy cabin, plenty of cargo space, modern tech, and the added confidence of Kia’s strong warranty—all without sacrificing everyday practicality.

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What It Costs to Drive
The 2025 Kia Sportage Hybrid's annual ownership costs:
Yearly
Monthly
Avg. Yearly Cost
~$3,000 – $3,800
Fuel
~$1,000 – $1,200
Insurance
~$1,600 – $2,000
Maintenance
~$400 – $600
Avg. Yearly Cost
~$3,000 – $3,800
Fuel
~$1,000 – $1,200
Insurance
~$1,600 – $2,000
Maintenance
~$400 – $600
Assumptions: These estimates are based on the average U.S. driver (12,000 miles/year, regular gas at ~$3.75/gal, a “good” driving record for insurance, and following Kia’s recommended maintenance schedule)

Trims, Features & Pricing

LX

  • Entry-Level Efficiency
  • ~$28,800

The LX is the most budget-friendly Sportage Hybrid trim, offering great fuel economy and solid features. It has the same 227-hp turbo hybrid engine as higher trims, delivering up to 43 mpg combined with FWD. Standard features include 17-inch alloy wheels, an 8-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and Kia’s core Drive Wise safety tech. While blind-spot and rear cross-traffic alerts are missing, AWD is available as an option. It’s a smart pick for value-conscious buyers who want efficiency, power, and space without spending more.

EX

  • Best Value Blend
  • ~$32,600

The EX is the mid-level trim and sweet spot of the Sportage Hybrid lineup. It comes standard with AWD and adds a host of comfort and convenience features that many buyers will find worth the step up in price. On the outside, the EX gets 18-inch alloy wheels and roof rails, while the interior is upgraded with SynTex (leatherette) upholstery and a power driver’s seat. Notably, the front seats are heated on the EX, a boon for winter mornings. Tech is also improved: the EX includes a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen with Kia’s navigation system and Kia Connect telematics (replacing the LX’s 8-inch unit). Keyless entry with push-button start and dual-zone automatic climate control are standard here. The EX comes with blind-spot collision-avoidance and rear cross-traffic alert standard. This trim can also be optioned with the new EX Premium Package, bundling a panoramic sunroof and power liftgate.

SX Prestige

  • Fully Loaded Luxury
  • $37,800

The SX Prestige is the top Sportage Hybrid trim, offering a near-luxury experience. It features dual 12.3-inch displays, ventilated front seats, premium SynTex upholstery, a Harman Kardon sound system, and advanced safety tech like Highway Driving Assist and a 360º camera. Unique perks include Remote Smart Parking Assist and a Blind-Spot View Monitor. With its upscale interior and loaded feature set, it’s the no-compromise pick.

A Review From Every Angle

Good

4.5/5

1. Exterior

4.5 / 5.0

Bold and Modern

The Sportage Hybrid’s bold design features striking LED lighting, a sleek, athletic profile, and upscale touches like a gloss-black grille and two-tone roof. It’s a standout in the compact SUV segment.

  • Longer stance and stretched wheelbase
  • Balances edgy and upscale appeal
  • Striking design elements like boomerang LED DRLs and gloss-black trim give the Sportage Hybrid a bold, modern presence

2. Interior

5.0 / 5.0

Spacious & High-Tech Comfort

The Sportage Hybrid’s interior feels upscale, with an optional dual 12.3-inch panoramic display on SX Prestige trims. Even mid-level models offer a clean, modern layout and quality materials. It’s also one of the roomiest in its class, with nearly 41 inches of rear legroom, reclining seats, and smart storage throughout.

  • Upscale cabin design with dual 12.3-inch panoramic displays and premium materials that rival pricier European models
  • Class-leading interior space, especially in the rear, with nearly 41 inches of legroom and reclining seats
  • Thoughtful storage solutions like a deep center console, retractable cupholders, and roomy door pockets

3. Safety

5.0 / 5.0

High-Tech and Highly Rated

The Sportage Hybrid comes standard with Kia’s Drive Wise safety suite, including forward collision avoidance, lane-keeping assist, and driver attention warning. Higher trims add blind-spot and rear cross-traffic avoidance, plus features like a 360° camera and adaptive cruise. It also earns top crash safety scores.

  • Comprehensive safety tech standard
  • Advanced features on higher trims, like blind-spot and rear cross-traffic avoidance, plus optional 360° camera and parking sensors
  • Highly rated crash safety backed by top scores and smart, unobtrusive driver-assist systems
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4. Fuel Economy

5.0 / 5.0

Saves Gas, Saves Money

The FWD Sportage Hybrid delivers up to 43 mpg combined, while AWD models still achieve an impressive 38 mpg—far better than the 25 mpg from the gas-only version. With smooth hybrid transitions and strong range, it’s both efficient and practical.

  • Impressive fuel economy, with up to 43 mpg combined for FWD and around 38 mpg for AWD—well above typical compact SUVs
  • Hybrid system delivers smooth, efficient power, using electric-only mode in traffic and turbo assist on highways
  • Excellent range, offering up to 600 miles per tank in FWD models under ideal conditions

5. Tech & Infotainment

4.5 / 5.0

Feature-Rich and User-Friendly

Kia packs the Sportage Hybrid with smart tech, including standard wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and an intuitive infotainment system with a clever dual-function control panel. Higher trims add perks like a Harman Kardon system, wireless charging, ambient lighting, and over-the-air updates.

  • Strong tech value across trims, with standard wireless connectivity and an intuitive split-screen interface
  • Premium upgrades on higher trims, including wireless charging and digital key access
  • Smart convenience features, like USB-C ports in both rows, and OTA infotainment updates

6. Performance & Handling

4.0 / 5.0

Smooth and Responsive

The Sportage Hybrid’s 227-hp powertrain delivers smooth, responsive acceleration with seamless electric-to-gas transitions. It uses a 6-speed automatic for a natural feel, rides comfortably, and offers confident, stable handling—especially with AWD for added traction.

  • Strong, smooth hybrid performance
  • Traditional 6-speed automatic offers natural-feeling shifts without the rubber-band effect of CVTs
  • Comfortable and composed ride, with stable highway manners, light steering, and AWD traction for varied conditions

What's New From Last Year?

  • New “EX Premium Package” that offers a panoramic sunroof and a smart power liftgate without jumping to a higher trim “SX Prestige”
  • There are no major styling overhauls or mechanical changes this year, it still sports the distinctive boomerang LED running lights and angular body
  • All models continue to come standard with LED headlights
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New from Last Year Image
Cars Similar to 2025 Kia Sportage Hybrid
If you’re considering the 2025 Kia Sportage Hybrid, you might also be looking at other efficient crossover SUVs, from hybrids to plug-in hybrids and even full electrics. Below is a quick comparison of the Sportage Hybrid with a few similar alternatives to help you see how they stack up:
2025 Kia Sportage Hybrid (Compact Hybrid SUV)
2025 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV (Compact Plug-in Hybrid)
2025 Kia Niro EV (Subcompact Electric Crossover)
Feature2025 Kia Sportage Hybrid (Compact Hybrid SUV)2025 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV (Compact Plug-in Hybrid)2025 Kia Niro EV (Subcompact Electric Crossover)
Performance
Smooth 227-hp hybrid with AWD or FWD
248-hp plug-in hybrid with standard AWD drive
201‑hp all-electric motor. Zippy at low speeds, quickest 0–60. FWD only.
Tech & Interior
Dual 12.3″ displays, Kia Connect, spacious legroom
9″ touchscreen, digital cluster, quilted leather cabin upgrade
Dual 10.25″ displays, Kia Connect, ambient EV design
Practicality
Two-row, roomy with ~39.5 cu ft cargo space. Low floor and wide hatch.
Seats 7, but tight 3rd row. ~30 cu ft cargo with 3rd row folded.
All-electric with 253-mile range. ~23 cu ft cargo; smaller than Sportage.
Comfort & Space
Smooth, comfy ride with excellent rear legroom.
Quiet in EV mode, comfy ride. Front/rear seats roomy, 3rd row tight.
Very quiet, comfy ride; shorter wheelbase = choppier over bumps.
Who’s It For
Drivers wanting great MPG, space, and features.
Families who want electric flexibility with gas backup.
Eco-conscious city drivers aiming to go all-electric.
Best Choice For
  • Fuel savings without trade-offs
  • Roomy 2-row cabin
  • Everyday comfort and tech
  • Short EV trips with gas backup
  • Occasional 3rd-row use
  • AWD confidence
  • All-electric driving
  • Urban commutes
  • Low running costs
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Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to plug in the Sportage Hybrid?
No—the Sportage Hybrid is a standard (self-charging) hybrid, not a plug-in. It recharges its battery automatically as you drive, using regenerative braking and the engine.
Does the Sportage Hybrid qualify for any tax credits or rebates?
In the U.S., traditional hybrids (without a plug) generally do not qualify for federal tax credits. The federal EV credit (up to $7,500) is reserved for plug-in vehicles and EVs that meet certain battery size and sourcing criteria. Since the Sportage Hybrid is not a plug-in, it isn’t eligible for that credit.
Can the Sportage Hybrid tow a trailer?
Yes, it can. The Sportage Hybrid is rated to tow up to 2,000 pounds when equipped with trailer brakes. Without trailer brakes, it can tow about 1,653 lbs (which covers small utility trailers or light personal watercraft).