2015 Kia Sportage Pros vs Cons

The Kia Sportage is best known for its sporty styling and easy handling. Introduced in 1993, this model has traditionally been advertised as a solid family car that comes with an affordable price tag. The following guide includes an overview of the 2015 Kia Sportage with ten reasons for purchasing this compact crossover SUV and some of the downsides that might discourage potential buyers.

The 2015 Kia Sportage essentially retains all of the features of this model from the previous year. The LX, EX and SX trims come with nearly identical looks as in the 2014 editions. Minor changes have been made to the exterior lighting such as the redesigned LED signal indicators on the side mirrors and LED combination lights in the rear.

Ten Reasons to Buy a 2015 Kia Sportage - The Pros

1 Affordable Price Tag

With a starting Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price of $21,750, the Kia Sportage is one of the least expensive crossover SUVs that is available in the market today. It's even possible to get the premium SX trim for under $30,000.

2 Sporty Handling

Featuring the signature Sportmatic feature, the six-speed automatic transmission system makes this Kia crossover SUV drive like a compact car or even coupe. High performance dampers in the rear suspension provide superior shock absorption even on bumpy roads. A motor driven power steering system is easy to manipulate when making tight turns and swift maneuvers. When taken for a test drive, this mode feels more like a hatchback or compact sedan rather than a crossover SUV.

3 Impressive Under The Hood

Integrated into the LX and EX models, the standard 2.4 L I4 engine delivers up to 182 horsepower. The 2.0 L turbocharged engine in the SX trim whips out a maximum of 260 horsepower, which is one of the highest hp ratings in the compact crossover SUV class. It's also impressive how such a compact engine block cranks out a peak torque of 269 pound-feet that's comparable to capabilities in premium sedans and sports cars.

4 Options In The Drivetrain

All Wheel Drive (AWD) comes standard in all Kia Sportage models. This advanced drivetrain features Electronic Control On-Demand to provide maximum traction on the road even when it rains or snows. The AWD is also engineered to prolong the life of the four-wheel disc brakes. An optional Front Wheel Drive (FWD) is also available for all of the trims.

5 Great For Road Trips

Capable of towing loads up to 2,000 pounds, this Kia can easily haul small utility trailers for camping trips and outdoor recreation. Additionally, the roof rails can support cargo attachments for carrying extra supplies.

6 Contemporary Exterior Styling

Offering modern appeal, chrome finishes are available for the door handles, bumpers and dual-exhaust tailpipes. A rear spoiler also add a sporty look to this compact Kia crossover. Jewel-type LED bulbs in the Daytime Running Lights also enhance the exterior styling.

7 High-Tech Interior

An optional navigation system with a 7-inch touchscreen is the technological centerpiece of the cabin. Turn-by-turn directions with voice command offer reliable guidance on the road. The display screen is also linked to the rear view camera that's further connected to a back-up warning system. The optional UVO eServices Infotainment System makes it easy to sync a mobile device with the multimedia console. Hands-free phone calls can also be made thanks to Bluetooth technology that comes standard.

8 Superior Acoustics

Connected to HD radio, the Infinity Surround Sound System features a subwoofer and external amplifier. This audio system is also great for listening to more than 130 channels on SiriusXM Satellite radio. Steering-mounted controls can be used to change radio channels and adjust the volume.

9 Attractive Cabin

Made of Clean Tex Fabric, the dark cloth upholstery all seats has stain-resistant designs. An upgrade to black leather trimming is also available for all the seats and even the steering wheel and shifting knob. The front seats are also heated and ventilated. Leatherette door armrests and aluminium scuff plates add sophisticated styling to the front cabin.

10 Safety Features From All Sides

The driver and front passenger are protected by front airbags and seat-mounted airbags. Side curtain airbags also protect all occupants of the Kia Sportage. A rollover sensor is programmed to control the deployment of airbags when all of the wheels lose contact with the road.

Reasons you may not want to buy a 2015 Kia Sportage - The Cons

1 Small Cargo Capacity

With only 26.1 cubic feet of cargo space, the Kia Sportage isn't exactly designed for being stuffed with large equipment and large baggage. The cargo space can be increased to 54 cubic feet at the expense of losing the entire back row of seats.

2 Mediocre Fuel Economy

Capable of getting a maximum of 28 miles per gallon on the highway and 21 mpg in the city, this compact crossover SUV doesn't boast a class-leading fuel economy rating. Additionally, a 15.3 gallon fuel tank offers a driving range of just over 400 miles and drivers will have to make frequent stops at the gas station.

3 Poor Outdoor Visibility

Inspired by a sporty design, the Kia Sportage doesn't stand out on the road as many larger crossover SUVs. The sleek and aerodynamic profile of this model may be mistaken for a compact sedan or hatchback.

4 Occasional Rough Riding

With a ground clearance of 6.8 inches, this Kia tends to shake and jerk on rough terrains and poorly-paved roads. Passengers might feel more bumps and grinds compared to riding in larger SUVs. With a curb weigh of under 3,700 pounds, the Kia Sportage simply doesn't have the mass to naturally absorb intense vibrations and shocks that may happen when driving over speed bumpers and other obstructions on the road.