2023 Kia Sportage Hybrid Review

The 2023 Kia Sportage is fully redesigned, and the Sportage Hybrid is the new fuel-sipping version. Highlights for this redesign include more interior passenger and cargo space, new technology features and distinctive styling. This is also the first time Kia has offered a hybrid powertrain on the Sportage.

Kia says that the Sportage Hybrid has gone from one of the smallest to largest SUVs in its class, and that results in considerable gains in passenger room and cargo space. When the 2023 Kia Sportage goes on sale in early 2022, it'll face off against rivals such as the Ford Escape Hybrid, Honda CR-V Hybrid and Toyota RAV4 Hybrid.

One of the downsides with the 2022 Sportage is the lack of space inside the cabin. Its length places it right in between the extra-small and small SUV classes, so buyers looking for a family-friendly SUV but don't need the three-row Sorento may be disappointed. Kia heard the feedback and increased the 2023 model's overall length and wheelbase to give it considerably more rear passenger legroom and cargo space. There's 39.5 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats, which is excellent. (A RAV4 Hybrid, which is quite roomy, has 37.5 cubes.)

The inside has a clean and modern aesthetic, with a 12.3-inch center touchscreen for entertainment and vehicle controls. Capacitive touch buttons are located beneath the screen and control the climate functions. The gear selector is shaped like a rotary dial, rather than a traditional upright shifter. You'll find a mix of materials with piano black for the trim, hard plastic for the storage areas, brushed metal finish on the door handles, and animal-free leather on higher trims. There is also an available panoramic sunroof.

Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay smartphone integration comes standard on all trim levels. Buyers can opt for a digital gauge cluster on higher trims, which makes the instrument cluster look like it has a single 24-inch panoramic screen.

The new Sportage also comes with many advanced driving aids. Standard ones include forward collision mitigation, adaptive cruise control and lane keeping assist. Buyers will also be able to further add optional blind-spot monitoring assist and a surround-view parking camera system, among many others.