I’m looking at getting a hybrid car and wanted to hear your thoughts on the Kia Sportage Hybrid. I really like the electronics, but I’m concerned about the reliability compared to other options like Toyota. Anyone have any opinions or experiences with it?
I got the 2025 LX for $30k, and I couldn’t be happier. The MPG is great, though it drops when it’s cold out. I haven’t had any issues yet, though it’s still brand new. I’d suggest getting the 2025 model instead of the 2024, as I’ve seen them at the same price. We considered Toyota too, but after doing some research, we decided to go for the Kia. Toyota’s reputation has been a bit overhyped lately, and the old ones were known for their durability, but not so much anymore. There’s a mechanic on YouTube who talks about how Toyota’s quality has changed over the years. If you want to pay an extra $10-$15k just for the brand, that’s up to you. We also looked at the Honda CRV hybrid but found it overpriced too.
@Meryann
The Honda CRV hybrid feels sluggish compared to the Kia. I really love my Kia .
@Meryann
I love that Car Care Nut channel on YouTube. He’s great for giving honest advice. He’s pointed out that Toyota has cheapened a lot of their parts post-2015. I used to be a loyal Honda fan until I had issues with head gaskets in two of my Civics. That was the end of that. I switched to a 2013 Sonata, which lasted until I went for the 2023 Niro HEV.
@Meryann
30k?? Can I ask which state you’re in?
@Meryann
The 2025 Kia models now come with Kia Connect complimentary for 3 years, which is worth over $800. That’s a nice bonus compared to previous years.
Toyota’s hybrid system is definitely solid because they’ve been working on it for years, but the RAV4 falls short in other areas. The interior feels outdated. Honda also took a step back with the current CRV model. In comparison, the Sportage offers better value all around. It handles smoothly, offers a comfortable ride, and feels more modern. The only downside is that it doesn’t come with real leather seats.
@Rowen
I actually prefer the faux leather or ‘leatherette’. It lasts much longer, doesn’t crack, and you don’t need heated or cooled seats to stay comfortable in extreme temperatures.
I had the 2023 Sportage Hybrid and drove it for 25k miles in a year. Took it on a 12-day, 4k+ mile road trip. It drove great until I hydroplaned during heavy rain and slid into a ditch. There was no damage, but after that, it developed a weird vibration around 1.5 RPMs that no dealer could fix. I was frustrated and traded it in for an EV6, which has been amazing. Still, I think about my Sportage sometimes—it’s like an ex you never fully get over.
I’ve got a 2023 model and I enjoy it. My only complaint is that I can’t adjust the regenerative braking level, but other than that, it’s been great. I’m not sure if the 2024 or 2025 models have this feature, though.
I’ve had a good experience with mine. The MPG isn’t as high as I expected, but that might improve in warmer weather. Kia has been making hybrids for a while, so I trust their reliability, especially with that warranty. Just make sure you stay on top of maintenance and keep the records.
Not reliable? I’ve had my Sportage for almost two years and it’s been fantastic. I also had a Kia for five years before this. I drove a fully loaded RAV4, and honestly, it felt like a cheap appliance, even though it was so expensive. I get that Toyota has a good reputation, but I feel like I’m getting that reliability with my Sportage and driving a car that feels luxurious.
@arletetorres
I agree with you. I had a RAV4 hybrid and wasn’t impressed. The electronics were basic, and the interior was lacking. The MPG was slightly better, but not enough to justify the extra $4k. Love my Kia!
I drove the 2023 EX and couldn’t be happier with it.
I got the SX Prestige hybrid about a month ago and I’m really happy with it. I don’t know what else to say, but feel free to ask if you have questions.
Danielle said:
I got the SX Prestige hybrid about a month ago and I’m really happy with it. I don’t know what else to say, but feel free to ask if you have questions.
How much did you pay? I’m considering one in Tennessee.
@ForteFanatic
I’m leasing it in New Jersey, but I think the purchase price would have been around $38k OTD.
I have the 2024 Sportage SPX. It’s got 17k miles and everything is going great so far!
We’ve had our 2024 SX-P since June and it’s been fantastic. In warmer weather, it gets 38-40 MPG, but it drops to 28-30 in the winter. The reliability has been excellent. The engine is smaller (1.6 turbo), but it works really well. It’s spacious and has all the features we love. One downside is no wireless AA/Carplay, but I solved that with a $50 adapter. It handles fine in the snow and drives great. We’ve had ten Subarus before this, and the Kia feels just as stable but with more tech.
@Sadie
Funny, I have a similar engine in my big cow carnival!