I own the Tuscon variant of this hybrid, and i get 37-38mpg on the regular....however, if im really driving chill, this system is capable of 40-41mpg. sometimes ive gone 10-12 miles on a trip home and got 60mpg for that particular drive time on level ground. if Hyundai/kia would tune the EV to stay on longer from a red light launch, this system could probably get 40mpg on the regular without question and driving habits can get 42-44. ive already put 28k on mine since sept 2021 til now, and 8k of those miles are a cross country trip and the only "lie" in this vehicles mpg is the highway mileage. at 60-65 it will get 37 on the highway, anything over that its gonna tank down to 32 at 75-80mpg....which is the normal interstate highway speed limits these days. mpg tanks even more when its under 30F (i got as low as 20mpg at 80mph when it was 18-22F outside). it costs me about $55 to fill it at about $5 per gallon. its been a comfortable, capable, AWD, decently fun car to drive. Space has been great, easily hauls a 27inch bike with seat down. the system that basically steers the vehicle on the highway in its lane works incredibly well, also the radar cruise works great. The realistic down points of this vehicle.....wind noise at drivers door, wonky drivers auto up window at times, an infotainment glitch (says KMs instead of Miles sometimes), brake noise the dealer keeps saying is fixed and its not, safety systems that are annoying. the radar cruise control i think def reduces MPG on the highway compared to foot driving a bit. its generally smooth engagement between EV/gas engine at lower speeds but soemtimes its annoying, but at higher speeds over 30...you pretty much never feel it. Sport mode is a hoot...it really makes you feel like this thing can perform really well but it drastically cuts down on MPG as EV mode does not turn on generally until you are near a complete stop compared to eco mode where you can manipulate it into EV mode at any time. the audio system in a base model is very adequate, Android auto works like crap as it cuts off at times, however not sure if that was the vehicle, or my phone causing it...i have not tried apple yet. it goes uphills without concern or stress. i find the brakes to be...."adequate" and they are probably my biggest complaint on this vehicle...the auto hold feature is awesomeness, but the brakes could be bigger and stronger in general i feel as if they are a hair weak for the vehicle size. it handles generally well otherwise for a small SUV, and you dont even notice the FWD bias i have yet to feel any noticable level of TQ steer when giving it larger throttle for the price point, the solid feel, the paint quality, the MPG, comfort and features, its worth every penny....coming from someone thats owned german cars for the last decade im highly impressed with this vehicle overall.
You are pretty much spot on in your assessment. BTW … Apple does the same thing … Apple Car play goes wonkers from time to time which is very annoying. I wish it handled a bit better in the twisties. Overall we really are enjoying this vehicle!!! 🙂
I am tempted to pick one of these up. I have a 2015 rav4 and want to get a hybrid. But after test driving the 2022 rav4 hybrid I was blown away at how noisy the rav4 is. Engine noise is still awful, highway and wind noise is unacceptable, and tire noise makes it way into the cabin far more than I would like. The interior felt cheap and the EnTune head unit is still sluggish. KIA reliability is increasing, and so is my interest in buying one.
We (finally) got our 2022 Tucson Limited PHEV two weeks ago today. If you prefer the Sportage design over the Tucson, AND have the tax liability to qualify for the (just over) $6,500 tax credit that the PHEV Sportage qualifies for - definitely get in line and wait for one of those. I installed a 240V receptacle (NEMA 14-50r) in our garage, and my wife has been religious about plugging the Tucson in when the battery gets low. We are averaging 105 mpg in it so far. It is really a fantastic car, and the PHEVs qualify for the Federal tax credit whereas the regular hybrids don't. However, after Kia (or Hyundai) reaches the 200,000 sales limit on EV/PHEVs sold, the tax credit will start phasing out. PS: There will be a wait for the PHEV just like there is for many other vehicles these days - especially fuel efficient ones. If you're interested, you will need (and want) to pre order one, and then expect many months for it to be delivered. I pre ordered the Tucson PHEV on June 6, 21, and it was delivered Feb 25, 22: an 8 -1/2 month wait.
Thanks for your very informative comments David. I'm glad to hear that you're happy with you Tucson. We do plan to buy the the Sportage PHEV and I'm sorry to hear that we'll have to wait so long to receive it!
I test drove the 2023 Santa Fe, CRV and Sportage hybrids, and non-hybrid Tucson (hybrid out of stock) yesterday and was very impressed with the Sportage. The CRV was luxurious but felt laggy to me. The Santa Fe felt squished with its raised center console and the Tucson was pretty good- wish it were the hybrid model but as of now, there are ZERO Tucson hybrids in my area of Southern California. The Santa Fe also scored lower for MPG than the smaller Tucson or Sportage although they did not feel smaller at all. I loved the techy features of the Sportage while my mechanic husband loved the traditional transmission over the CVT of the CRV I gunned it and it was very responsive. Much better than the Honda. The Sportage (SV Prestige) was very comfortable, but I did hear some wind noise at the drivers window- but with the radio on, I didn't hear it. The Sportage is the one we are going with.
@@coastersandcosplays no, theyve been out for 2 months. I was lucky to test drive one which was sold as I was driving it. I wasn't a fan. I LOVE my Kia Sportage- very zippy especially in Sport mode. Needs more USB ports though
Just got my sportage hybrid and i love it!!! Its so great on gas! I traded my Nissan Murano for it. Loved my Murano but wasted a lot of gas and with gas prices what they are now well I didn't have a choice!
The redesign looks bounds and leaps better than the older models. My neighbor bought one after having a hard time with her American GMC and already loves it.
I have one I just purchased. Other than the dealer screwing me on the cost I really like it. Takes a bit to not hear the engine start when you push the start button. The dash lights up the AC comes on and the dash completes its startup. Its very spunky for getting on the highway and I love that it has a standard transmission. Driving is very nice and I get a kick out of the engine start and stop since you really don’t feel it.
It is interesting for me, that as I see it Asia and USA get a longer version than here in Europe. The rear legspace is much bigger than in the European version.
Nice overview, been waiting for this one. I was surprised not to get more of a mention for the upcoming plug-in hybrid option. Available July 2022 according to the Kia website. 13.8 kWh battery, 261 hp/258 lb-ft. The hybrid trims are LX, EX and SX Prestige, but the phev only has two trims, X-Line and X-Line Prestige. X-Line maps almost exactly to the EX hybrid trim but oddly omits the heated steering wheel.
That's a shame about the the heated steering wheel on the base PHEV. With our Kia Soul EV, the heated steering wheel and seats meant we could get by with no cabin heating under many conditions, which helped eke out more range from the battery.
I have the gas version of the X-Pro, I used Sport Mode and it definitely made a difference. Try that and see what you think. Great review sir. Go Kia. Love my X-Pro. 👍🏾😉
There is no shade for the cargo area YET. I can sort of use the one that I purchased for my 2022 KIA. If I hit a big bump, it comes out of the indentations in back. I’m hoping a new shade will come out soon. They should have had it available when I purchased my hybrid 2023.
I am curious on the Towing Capacity and location of ball. For the Toyota they had to cut through the bumper to make it high enough to be practical. I am not seeing much on the Sportage 2023 in this regard??
I’m curious as to why the tach and the speedometer have switched sides. Usually the speedometer is on the right side and the tach is on the left. Kia has reversed them in the new dash.
I’m pretty new to Hybrids, how often does this drive in “EV” mode? Is it pretty easy and consistent or is it a bit of a chore to get it? Considering this due to the fact Washington state won’t offer the plug in version.
Hi Alex do you know if the hybrid or plug-in hybrid Sportage has power folding side mirrors. If so which trim packages. I have a single car garage in my new home and I’m now looking for a hybrid compact SUV with them so I have more room pulling into my garage. Thanks
I’m not in the market for an ICE anything anymore (EVs work so much better for my usage) but if one was looking at a compact crossover, I cannot imagine a reason why someone would not get a hybrid or PHEV version (unless of course they could only afford the absolute base version, and in that case they should probably be looking at a 1-3yr old used vehicle instead). The fuel economy and resulting fuel savings should be more than enough to convince anyone.
Also, Hybrid engines are significantly more powerful than regular gasoline only engines. Better MPG + Horsepower + Torque + less noise etc... The stuff you get for little more $$$ is basically a whole new world.
Completely agree...Honda has no Hybrid Pilot to compete with Highlander and I guarantee Kia hybrid SUVs will eventually outsell the Pilot behind the Toyota Highlander Hybrid.
I'm just about to buy the tucson limited awd but they are just a matter of personal choice apart... but I'm an ex cx5 gt owner si it had to be loaded with tech and safety devices, heated and cooled seats helps as a florida dweller but goes to the kids in Colorado in the winter so need the full gambit of needs
Hmmm not sure about the 'Snidley Whiplash' silver trim on the back bumper and that back-up light is downright tiny. Not a fan of the small and very low back-up and turn signal lights! They made up for that with lower-than-expected (imo) pricing
Hey Alex, I’m trying to decide this Sportage SX Prestige hybrid vs a Mini Countryman S All4. If you were deciding, which one? Love this tech, love the Mini size Thanks for your GREAT REVIEWS !
The look and style are fine with me. Let's put it this way, I don't have anything I don't like about it so I count that as a positive. And wow that is a bigger vehicle. My only negative is it would be nice for more options on the instrument screen, configuration, looks, personalization. For just below the MPG of the RAV4 but with a mechanical AWD, I'm in. The transmission choice isn't an issue.
I would Suggest that You purchase a New 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid Blue edition. Simply because it has a 17.7 gallon Fuel tank capacity and gets an Average of 33mpg, real world driving city/highway.
This looks good. The interior is very similar to my 2021 Palisade. It seems to be priced right, as well. It’s now on the list for my girlfriend as she looks for a new compact SUV.
I thought small, direct injected turbo engines would be a problem in a plug in hybrid. They are less likely to come to temperature and more likel to get carbon build up or contaminants in the oil. If you have a PHEV and go electric 90% of the time, do you have to worry about the gas going bad?
Depends on the tuning of the vehicle. Most will be tuned to run the gas engine for a certain minimum amount of time. Direct injection engines also run better at colder temperatures than port injection because they have much less issue with the fuel condensing in the manifold and cylinder at cold temps. Direct injection also allows for much more flexibility to modify cold engine tuning to warm it up more quickly. I can’t speak much vs the gas when using primarily as an EV, but I will say that I have multiple vehicles that may go for months on a single tank of gas (because of limited use) and I’ve never once had an issue with the gas going bad. If you are using a PHEV as an EV for 90% of your driving, you should consider getting a full EV instead since you clearly don’t need the ICE.
i go for kuga plug in hybrid sportage it cost a lot on hybrid. unlike in kuga plug in hybrid complete pacage not to much expensive and kuga has a quality
What happened to the days when you could order whatever exterior/interior color you wanted?! I love the blue interior but I don't think I'll be able to have it with the exterior color I want, which is Wolf Gray?
@@MNM14ful yeah, sucks. I was sold on the top trim hybrid. Unfortunately, the exterior colors and interior colors suck. The interior is limited to all black or red caramel. To get the red caramel, you are limited to 4 exterior colors. All a shade of gray or black, wolf gray(the only shade I like if I had to choose a dark color) not being available. My only option is the blue exterior with the white/blue interior in the ex trim with ex premium package. Which misses features I want.
I like the looks. BUT! I'm looking for the HPEV version, X-Line Prestige trimmed and just like with the RAV4 Prime (NM Toyota dealers won't even order one!) there are almost none and dealers are adding big premiums, $5-8k in CO. I actually have a $1k down deposit on a Volvo XC 60 T8 Recharge (No premium added) but delivery is way into 2023, ~ February-April. Hard time to buy a car...
What i dont understand is, why are rear seats not designed to slide forward and back like a front seat can. As a 5ft 11 guy i dont need 8in of space between my legs and the front seat if im sitting in the back. I would like the option to slide forward and increase my cargo space in the rear.
Sliding seats require more space between the floor and the seat cushion. Depending on how the vehicle is package and whether or not they want the seats to fold forward or flat cargo floor, that may be why they chose not to in this case.
@@ouch1011 all they have to do is add a railing slider to the bottom of the seats. A minivan can have the second row slide all the way forward so why cant suv's second row
Compared to Honda CR-V 2023 , anyone wanted to chip in which one if they were to pick. 2023 Sportage SX prestige Hybrid VS 2023 Honda CR-V sport touring Hybrid
@@AuthorJamesBeltz I'm 2,300 miles in. I'm currently averaging 35-37. Seems to be low 30s when going 75, so far. Around town seems to be around 38. I drive it like I drove my Niro - trying to get it into EV mode as much as possible, but not 100% of the time. For an AWD SUV of this size (it's not small, by any means), I'm quite happy with the fuel economy. Now for the bad - the transmission has been flaring occasionally during the 3-4 shift during the first drive and sift sequence of the day. After that, it's fine. The dealer had it for a week, and was able to reproduce it once. Kia Tech issued a software update. Seemed fine for a week, but has now flared 3 times recently. It goes back in next week. We'll see what happens.
@@redgeminipa So keep your foot out of it... Got it. I did see one owner who said that he found using eco mode in city and smart on the highway seems to make this an easier feat. he claimed in town he would routinely get over 40 and occasionally he got nearly 60 in the city. But that seems a stretch. he said driving it in smart in town was far worse than driving it in eco mode in the town. You might see if you can replicate those results.
@@AuthorJamesBeltz I run in eco mode only. Smart makes the engine run more often. I could get near 60 MPG in my Niro, but after it was broken in. I'm giving this time to break in.
@EV Buyer Guide, I reserved a Rav4 Hybrid Limited, after watching this video, I am definitely interested in this, do you suggest sticking to Rav4 Hybrid or consider Sportage Hybrid or Sorrento Hybrid? Thanks in advance
Sportage hybrid. Much nicer interior, and also the Highway Drive Assist (HDA) only in the Prestige model, the car drives automatically on the highway, can turn with the road and all. Something Toyota does not have.
Thank for for the full walk thru. Nice that it’s a hybrid. Shame that it got so much bloat. Now like so many makers, Kia is sniffing the $$ and the bigger is better ethos of the USA. Bigger, less benefit from all the hybrid technology built in. Thanks again for the good look!!
You’d be lucky to get a car like this for $29or $30K. We would up paying 7K more than sticker even though we m we wanted to PAY sticker. Too late to have noticed the price until AFTER we signed. Oh well.
For a hybrid, it's got poor MPG! I get, up to 43.5 on a 70 mile journey, over country roads (50 to 60 mph roads) & some village roads, (30 to 40 mph roads) & some motorway (Highway Roads 70mph roads) In a 2.0 2019 AWD Mitsubishi Outlander! That's better, than the spec says!... I've also had hight, mpg! At the first, & second service (1 every 12 months) They've commented, at how good mpg I've been getting! Yes, I'm not a racer! I don't have, a heavy foot!... I was hoping, this hybrid would easy get at least 45 mpg+ if not 50 mpg+ like diesel cars!.. Wowzers, this one only has slightly better mpg, than the European mild hybrid Sportage 2022!..
As usual with Kia/Hyundai it all looks good on paper, but… The beauty of vehicle electrification isn’t just in the reduced fuel economy (which by the way isn’t even close to the EPA estimates on these), but rather the simplification of their drive systems which makes them more reliable than their purely ICE siblings. Toyota, Ford and Honda achieve this very well by using incredibly simple and sturdy drivetrains and engines that avoid turbos. Toyota and Honda’s engines aren’t even direct injection. Hyundai/Kia basically take their regular engines and transmissions and just add complexity by bolting on electric generators. The mere issue of not being able to control the cooldown of your turbo spool by idling it because a hybrid will just turn off the engine bothers me. It’s not like Hyundai/Kia already don’t have enough issues with their engines and transmissions, right? I appreciate that they made them larger, but the company still doesn’t get basic things.
@@EVBuyersGuide That’s the thing though… aside from the DCT (which has been problematic for them), the first generation hybrids from the company used a very basic setup - basic NA engine with a motor. That’s why they have been reliable. The whole point of electrification is to substitute large displacement or turbo with electric motor(s) and to basically get rid of regular transmissions.
@@afcgeo882 simply adding a turbo charger is not going make the biggest difference here in the average ownership cycle. Now at year 15 and 300,000 miles, possibly, but we'll have to wait for that data. For the average new car buyer I am not concerned, as a used car in five years or seven years, that might be a different story
@@EVBuyersGuide Adding one thing on top of another adds up. Once you make a lot of sacrifices, you end up having something that simply isn’t good. You honestly sound like a battered spouse, making excuses for something you know very well is objectively inferior in durability simply because it uses unnecessary complexity. Durability for the average buyer isn’t a concern… until they spend days upon days driving loaners and then get horrible resale value, all because of something you can easily foresee happening. Right now there are thousands of Hyundai/Kia owners who were told to park their cars until further notice, but keep making those monthly payments. These things DO matter.
It’s an interesting SUV for sure, but the risk of Kia and Hyundai catching fire still is a huge issue that has not been addressed well. These cars don’t last longer when they are a burnt carcass in a scrap yard
No thanks. My confidence level in Korean vehicles is not where I want it to be yet. My confidence level regarding EV's and their ongoing maintenance/repair costs is even far less than that. The good news is that this vehicle is not aimed at my demographic, so no harm, no foul.
I own the Tuscon variant of this hybrid, and i get 37-38mpg on the regular....however, if im really driving chill, this system is capable of 40-41mpg. sometimes ive gone 10-12 miles on a trip home and got 60mpg for that particular drive time on level ground. if Hyundai/kia would tune the EV to stay on longer from a red light launch, this system could probably get 40mpg on the regular without question and driving habits can get 42-44. ive already put 28k on mine since sept 2021 til now, and 8k of those miles are a cross country trip and the only "lie" in this vehicles mpg is the highway mileage. at 60-65 it will get 37 on the highway, anything over that its gonna tank down to 32 at 75-80mpg....which is the normal interstate highway speed limits these days. mpg tanks even more when its under 30F (i got as low as 20mpg at 80mph when it was 18-22F outside). it costs me about $55 to fill it at about $5 per gallon. its been a comfortable, capable, AWD, decently fun car to drive. Space has been great, easily hauls a 27inch bike with seat down. the system that basically steers the vehicle on the highway in its lane works incredibly well, also the radar cruise works great.
The realistic down points of this vehicle.....wind noise at drivers door, wonky drivers auto up window at times, an infotainment glitch (says KMs instead of Miles sometimes), brake noise the dealer keeps saying is fixed and its not, safety systems that are annoying. the radar cruise control i think def reduces MPG on the highway compared to foot driving a bit. its generally smooth engagement between EV/gas engine at lower speeds but soemtimes its annoying, but at higher speeds over 30...you pretty much never feel it. Sport mode is a hoot...it really makes you feel like this thing can perform really well but it drastically cuts down on MPG as EV mode does not turn on generally until you are near a complete stop compared to eco mode where you can manipulate it into EV mode at any time. the audio system in a base model is very adequate, Android auto works like crap as it cuts off at times, however not sure if that was the vehicle, or my phone causing it...i have not tried apple yet. it goes uphills without concern or stress. i find the brakes to be...."adequate" and they are probably my biggest complaint on this vehicle...the auto hold feature is awesomeness, but the brakes could be bigger and stronger in general i feel as if they are a hair weak for the vehicle size. it handles generally well otherwise for a small SUV, and you dont even notice the FWD bias i have yet to feel any noticable level of TQ steer when giving it larger throttle
for the price point, the solid feel, the paint quality, the MPG, comfort and features, its worth every penny....coming from someone thats owned german cars for the last decade im highly impressed with this vehicle overall.
Nice review, thanks!
Thank you for your review! I was looking for some real world feed back and your feedback was exactly that.
I concur.
Wao, that's an true honest review. You should do a video and ill follow you.
You are pretty much spot on in your assessment. BTW … Apple does the same thing … Apple Car play goes wonkers from time to time which is very annoying. I wish it handled a bit better in the twisties. Overall we really are enjoying this vehicle!!! 🙂
I am tempted to pick one of these up. I have a 2015 rav4 and want to get a hybrid. But after test driving the 2022 rav4 hybrid I was blown away at how noisy the rav4 is. Engine noise is still awful, highway and wind noise is unacceptable, and tire noise makes it way into the cabin far more than I would like. The interior felt cheap and the EnTune head unit is still sluggish.
KIA reliability is increasing, and so is my interest in buying one.
I love the way it looks, especially the interior! I wish the navy blue was available in the SX Prestige. Nice review Alex.
We (finally) got our 2022 Tucson Limited PHEV two weeks ago today. If you prefer the Sportage design over the Tucson, AND have the tax liability to qualify for the (just over) $6,500 tax credit that the PHEV Sportage qualifies for - definitely get in line and wait for one of those. I installed a 240V receptacle (NEMA 14-50r) in our garage, and my wife has been religious about plugging the Tucson in when the battery gets low. We are averaging 105 mpg in it so far. It is really a fantastic car, and the PHEVs qualify for the Federal tax credit whereas the regular hybrids don't. However, after Kia (or Hyundai) reaches the 200,000 sales limit on EV/PHEVs sold, the tax credit will start phasing out.
PS: There will be a wait for the PHEV just like there is for many other vehicles these days - especially fuel efficient ones. If you're interested, you will need (and want) to pre order one, and then expect many months for it to be delivered. I pre ordered the Tucson PHEV on June 6, 21, and it was delivered Feb 25, 22: an 8 -1/2 month wait.
Thanks for your very informative comments David. I'm glad to hear that you're happy with you Tucson. We do plan to buy the the Sportage PHEV and I'm sorry to hear that we'll have to wait so long to receive it!
How did you pre-order it ? Locally in dealer or via online ? I didn't see the Plugin version of the Sportage online yet. Thanks !
I test drove the 2023 Santa Fe, CRV and Sportage hybrids, and non-hybrid Tucson (hybrid out of stock) yesterday and was very impressed with the Sportage. The CRV was luxurious but felt laggy to me. The Santa Fe felt squished with its raised center console and the Tucson was pretty good- wish it were the hybrid model but as of now, there are ZERO Tucson hybrids in my area of Southern California. The Santa Fe also scored lower for MPG than the smaller Tucson or Sportage although they did not feel smaller at all. I loved the techy features of the Sportage while my mechanic husband loved the traditional transmission over the CVT of the CRV I gunned it and it was very responsive. Much better than the Honda. The Sportage (SV Prestige) was very comfortable, but I did hear some wind noise at the drivers window- but with the radio on, I didn't hear it. The Sportage is the one we are going with.
How did you drive the 2023 CRV hybrid? They just started production last week
@@coastersandcosplays no, theyve been out for 2 months. I was lucky to test drive one which was sold as I was driving it. I wasn't a fan. I LOVE my Kia Sportage- very zippy especially in Sport mode. Needs more USB ports though
@@sjdoxies where do you live? The dealerships here in Arizona are still getting 2022 CR-V hybrids on their shipments for the next 2 months
@@sjdoxies we actually have a deposit on a Sportage Hybrid SX-Prestige at a dealer here and it's scheduled to arrive by Monday 😀
@@coastersandcosplays SoCal
Always the best reviews
Just got my sportage hybrid and i love it!!! Its so great on gas! I traded my Nissan Murano for it. Loved my Murano but wasted a lot of gas and with gas prices what they are now well I didn't have a choice!
The redesign looks bounds and leaps better than the older models. My neighbor bought one after having a hard time with her American GMC and already loves it.
I have one I just purchased. Other than the dealer screwing me on the cost I really like it. Takes a bit to not hear the engine start when you push the start button. The dash lights up the AC comes on and the dash completes its startup. Its very spunky for getting on the highway and I love that it has a standard transmission. Driving is very nice and I get a kick out of the engine start and stop since you really don’t feel it.
What was the markup above MSRP? They are hard to find and dealers are overcharging big time.
It is interesting for me, that as I see it Asia and USA get a longer version than here in Europe. The rear legspace is much bigger than in the European version.
They are all the same size.
No, they have a bigger version. You should check it.
Nice video....making choices hard between Tucson Hybrid, Santa Fe Hybrid and now this Sportage Hybrid. Love that it has a SPARE TIRE.
Nice overview, been waiting for this one. I was surprised not to get more of a mention for the upcoming plug-in hybrid option. Available July 2022 according to the Kia website. 13.8 kWh battery, 261 hp/258 lb-ft. The hybrid trims are LX, EX and SX Prestige, but the phev only has two trims, X-Line and X-Line Prestige. X-Line maps almost exactly to the EX hybrid trim but oddly omits the heated steering wheel.
That's a shame about the the heated steering wheel on the base PHEV. With our Kia Soul EV, the heated steering wheel and seats meant we could get by with no cabin heating under many conditions, which helped eke out more range from the battery.
Great thorough review with no annoying intro music,,etc.
I have the gas version of the X-Pro, I used Sport Mode and it definitely made a difference. Try that and see what you think. Great review sir. Go Kia. Love my X-Pro. 👍🏾😉
No one does it better Alex. Thumbs up!
I have been looking for one of these for several months but I am not going to buy one for a dealer that has an additional markup fee on it too bad
Alex, Question, Behind the Headrest on the Seats; Do You believe that They are Strong Enough to Hold a Shopping Bag of Groceries?!?
I just got my Sportage Hybrid 2023 and this is amazing and no engine noice in room.Only con is that doesn't have blind spot detector 😏
This is not e v b g, it's Alex on Autos.
Is the engjne a GDI or Port Injection or perhaps a Duel injection (Port and Direct).
Carbon buildup in the intake valve will cause problems longterm
PHEV thank you! Seriously, 90% of cars would be better as a PHEV.
There is no shade for the cargo area YET. I can sort of use the one that I purchased for my 2022 KIA. If I hit a big bump, it comes out of the indentations in back. I’m hoping a new shade will come out soon. They should have had it available when I purchased my hybrid 2023.
Any idea on actual mileage on interstates at more than 70mph? The Tucson disappointed there, so I imagine this will as well, but I do hope it won't.
I love the interior colors
I am curious on the Towing Capacity and location of ball. For the Toyota they had to cut through the bumper to make it high enough to be practical. I am not seeing much on the Sportage 2023 in this regard??
I read 2000 lbs
My favorite color is blue so 🔥 🔥🔥🔥
I ordered one. its a great deal. edit: you do a really good job on the vid man. new sub.. its gonna be cool to see your Channel grow. keep it up!
Do you have thed car yet? If so what was the wait? Thanks!
Question I have the 23 Kia Sportage hybrid with grey seats and ive tried everything to get the blue jean stains out. Any suggesyions ?
I’m curious as to why the tach and the speedometer have switched sides. Usually the speedometer is on the right side and the tach is on the left. Kia has reversed them in the new dash.
I’m pretty new to Hybrids, how often does this drive in “EV” mode? Is it pretty easy and consistent or is it a bit of a chore to get it? Considering this due to the fact Washington state won’t offer the plug in version.
Hi Alex do you know if the hybrid or plug-in hybrid Sportage has power folding side mirrors. If so which trim packages. I have a single car garage in my new home and I’m now looking for a hybrid compact SUV with them so I have more room pulling into my garage. Thanks
they do not
Do you need to run premium gas in this since its turbocharged?
Not needed. I own one.
I’m not in the market for an ICE anything anymore (EVs work so much better for my usage) but if one was looking at a compact crossover, I cannot imagine a reason why someone would not get a hybrid or PHEV version (unless of course they could only afford the absolute base version, and in that case they should probably be looking at a 1-3yr old used vehicle instead). The fuel economy and resulting fuel savings should be more than enough to convince anyone.
Also, Hybrid engines are significantly more powerful than regular gasoline only engines. Better MPG + Horsepower + Torque + less noise etc...
The stuff you get for little more $$$ is basically a whole new world.
That’s the exactly 2023 Kia Sportage hybrid model I’m waiting for.
Hey Alex my morning commute is 83 miles to work with 85% of my drive is at 75-80 mph. What's the average mpg for the Sportage at those speeds?
the Plugin model will kick ass, cant wait :D
Toyota and Honda’s equivalents are boring like hell. This one looks years ahead.
Its all personal preference. Personally I think the RAV4 and CRV look great. Nice to see good competition in this segment.
Completely agree...Honda has no Hybrid Pilot to compete with Highlander and I guarantee Kia hybrid SUVs will eventually outsell the Pilot behind the Toyota Highlander Hybrid.
Boring? And yet RAV4 and CRV easily outsells this car by a mile
I'm just about to buy the tucson limited awd but they are just a matter of personal choice apart... but I'm an ex cx5 gt owner si it had to be loaded with tech and safety devices, heated and cooled seats helps as a florida dweller but goes to the kids in Colorado in the winter so need the full gambit of needs
Any idea if the Plug In Hybrid will be capable of doing both FWD and AWD?
Great video 🙏
Why does some higher trims have the dial shift which is more classy and others have the old stick shift knob?
The Hybrid / PHEV have dial, gasoline only has shifter
Hmmm not sure about the 'Snidley Whiplash' silver trim on the back bumper and that back-up light is downright tiny. Not a fan of the small and very low back-up and turn signal lights!
They made up for that with lower-than-expected (imo) pricing
Have you bought one? I find dealers charge way over MSRP.
@@rustywilliamson7140 Nope . . . the dealers are too happy to take the savings and putting it into their own pockets 😡
Great review. Looks awesome in back.
Hey Alex,
I’m trying to decide this Sportage SX Prestige hybrid vs a Mini Countryman S All4. If you were deciding, which one?
Love this tech, love the Mini size
Thanks for your GREAT REVIEWS !
The look and style are fine with me. Let's put it this way, I don't have anything I don't like about it so I count that as a positive. And wow that is a bigger vehicle.
My only negative is it would be nice for more options on the instrument screen, configuration, looks, personalization.
For just below the MPG of the RAV4 but with a mechanical AWD, I'm in. The transmission choice isn't an issue.
I would Suggest that You purchase a New 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid Blue edition. Simply because it has a 17.7 gallon Fuel tank capacity and gets an Average of 33mpg, real world driving city/highway.
Great review Alex. This looks to be a very interesting hybrid option.
This looks good. The interior is very similar to my 2021 Palisade. It seems to be priced right, as well. It’s now on the list for my girlfriend as she looks for a new compact SUV.
I thought small, direct injected turbo engines would be a problem in a plug in hybrid. They are less likely to come to temperature and more likel to get carbon build up or contaminants in the oil. If you have a PHEV and go electric 90% of the time, do you have to worry about the gas going bad?
Depends on the tuning of the vehicle. Most will be tuned to run the gas engine for a certain minimum amount of time. Direct injection engines also run better at colder temperatures than port injection because they have much less issue with the fuel condensing in the manifold and cylinder at cold temps. Direct injection also allows for much more flexibility to modify cold engine tuning to warm it up more quickly. I can’t speak much vs the gas when using primarily as an EV, but I will say that I have multiple vehicles that may go for months on a single tank of gas (because of limited use) and I’ve never once had an issue with the gas going bad. If you are using a PHEV as an EV for 90% of your driving, you should consider getting a full EV instead since you clearly don’t need the ICE.
I am looking forward to your review on the plug-in hybrid model of the Sportage when it is released. That might be the one I choose to purchase.
i go for kuga plug in hybrid sportage it cost a lot on hybrid. unlike in kuga plug in hybrid complete pacage not to much expensive and kuga has a quality
Unfortunately, the blue and white interior isn't available in the top trim hybrid.
What happened to the days when you could order whatever exterior/interior color you wanted?! I love the blue interior but I don't think I'll be able to have it with the exterior color I want, which is Wolf Gray?
@@MNM14ful yeah, sucks. I was sold on the top trim hybrid. Unfortunately, the exterior colors and interior colors suck. The interior is limited to all black or red caramel. To get the red caramel, you are limited to 4 exterior colors. All a shade of gray or black, wolf gray(the only shade I like if I had to choose a dark color) not being available.
My only option is the blue exterior with the white/blue interior in the ex trim with ex premium package. Which misses features I want.
@alex would like to see a comparison with 2023 toyota venza.
I have an 09 Kia Sportage, looking to upgrade...
the holder in the back of the headrest is useful to rest your phone while it's charger is plugged in
Not true. Your phone will fall off on turns. It’s a jacket hanger
Does it have auto-start ?
Enormous cargo space? How many cu feet? Do the seats fold down? When I travel with my Outback I'm filling 72cu ft
Yes, the back seats fold down flat
Is that the Vesta Blue color?
Kia also sells the Soul (which is basically a CUV) and the niro
I hate they skimped on Adaptive Cruise Control, making you buy the top trim in order to get the feature.
What about highway drive assist?
I like the looks. BUT! I'm looking for the HPEV version, X-Line Prestige trimmed and just like with the RAV4 Prime (NM Toyota dealers won't even order one!) there are almost none and dealers are adding big premiums, $5-8k in CO. I actually have a $1k down deposit on a Volvo XC 60 T8 Recharge (No premium added) but delivery is way into 2023, ~ February-April. Hard time to buy a car...
Go to your local KN or KIA dealer and get on a waiting list. Especially for a Hybrid.
My dealerships said they are no waiting lists so far 👀
@@carloswebster971 That is not my experience. Goodfor you!
What i dont understand is, why are rear seats not designed to slide forward and back like a front seat can. As a 5ft 11 guy i dont need 8in of space between my legs and the front seat if im sitting in the back. I would like the option to slide forward and increase my cargo space in the rear.
Vw Tiguan has the feature you are looking for.
@@timdao3456 tiguan is a POS though. Good fit and finish buy reliability is garbage.
Sliding seats require more space between the floor and the seat cushion. Depending on how the vehicle is package and whether or not they want the seats to fold forward or flat cargo floor, that may be why they chose not to in this case.
@@ouch1011 all they have to do is add a railing slider to the bottom of the seats. A minivan can have the second row slide all the way forward so why cant suv's second row
Does the 2023 Sportage Hybrid use the Theta II engine that has a lot of issues?
it has gamma 1.6 turbo
Compared to Honda CR-V 2023 , anyone wanted to chip in which one if they were to pick. 2023 Sportage SX prestige Hybrid VS 2023 Honda CR-V sport touring Hybrid
Building out on Kia's site it appears the Hybrid ALWAYS includes all wheel drive.. :(
Only LX has that option.
@@rustywilliamson7140 Ah, good catch. Looks like mine was defaulting to the EX and thought I did all trim options but guess not. Thanks.
MAY WE KNOW WHEN IS THE KIA SPORTAGE HYBRID 2023 hitting Indian Shores?
15:20 the CX-5 doesn’t handle better than the Sportage?
how fast is it from 0 to 60 mph
Why don't they use DCT for their hybrid SUVs?
I love the look
I'm curious because it's a turbo, does it require premium fuel?
No. I put Midgrade in mine. It requires 87.
I have a SX Prestige in that color on order. Went to a local new auto show and looked at both cars and SUV’s, the Kia won out
I have the hybrid in black.
I should be getting mine tomorrow. I’m trading in my ‘21 Niro LX HEV. We’ll see how it goes.
Hows the MPG? And how were driving to get it. I understand that at 65, it is awesome. Drive 75 and you are at 30 mpg. How is it in town?
@@AuthorJamesBeltz I'm 2,300 miles in. I'm currently averaging 35-37. Seems to be low 30s when going 75, so far. Around town seems to be around 38. I drive it like I drove my Niro - trying to get it into EV mode as much as possible, but not 100% of the time. For an AWD SUV of this size (it's not small, by any means), I'm quite happy with the fuel economy.
Now for the bad - the transmission has been flaring occasionally during the 3-4 shift during the first drive and sift sequence of the day. After that, it's fine. The dealer had it for a week, and was able to reproduce it once. Kia Tech issued a software update. Seemed fine for a week, but has now flared 3 times recently. It goes back in next week. We'll see what happens.
@@redgeminipa So keep your foot out of it... Got it. I did see one owner who said that he found using eco mode in city and smart on the highway seems to make this an easier feat. he claimed in town he would routinely get over 40 and occasionally he got nearly 60 in the city. But that seems a stretch. he said driving it in smart in town was far worse than driving it in eco mode in the town. You might see if you can replicate those results.
@@AuthorJamesBeltz I run in eco mode only. Smart makes the engine run more often. I could get near 60 MPG in my Niro, but after it was broken in. I'm giving this time to break in.
This is my next car a
Absolutely eautiful
Beautiful
@EV Buyer Guide, I reserved a Rav4 Hybrid Limited, after watching this video, I am definitely interested in this, do you suggest sticking to Rav4 Hybrid or consider Sportage Hybrid or Sorrento Hybrid? Thanks in advance
Sportage hybrid. Much nicer interior, and also the Highway Drive Assist (HDA) only in the Prestige model, the car drives automatically on the highway, can turn with the road and all. Something Toyota does not have.
Sportage.
I Would Suggest purchasing the 2022 Santa Fe Hybrid Blue edition, Simply because it has a 17.7gal. Fuel Tank and gets an Average of 33mpg. .
Nice review Alex!
Interesting hybrid model, we are curious to see what the PHEV version will look like! Thank you for sharing! 🔌⚡🚘
it will look exactly the same as all other Sportages both HEV and ICE.
Is it better than Rav4 ?
Thank for for the full walk thru. Nice that it’s a hybrid. Shame that it got so much bloat. Now like so many makers, Kia is sniffing the $$ and the bigger is better ethos of the USA. Bigger, less benefit from all the hybrid technology built in. Thanks again for the good look!!
Two tone interior is elegant and handsome.👍 The Sportage front fascia is definitely NOT. 👎
its fugly.
Don't forget the warranty
You’d be lucky to get a car like this for $29or $30K. We would up paying 7K more than sticker even though we m we wanted to PAY sticker. Too late to have noticed the price until AFTER we signed. Oh well.
I'm waiting for the EV.
I don’t know why Asia and eu get better models a year or two ahead of america.
That’s a face only a mother could love
Yeah, I can't imagine driving that every day. Oh well, I can wait to see what the new CR-V will look like.
I get tons of looks and compliments driving it though idk to each his own
I don't expect to see ANY incandescent bulbs in a 2023 vehicle 🙄
Awesome
Alex, They got the size right. Over to you Toyota...........
This is nothing more than a version of the Hyundai Santa FE. Same exact drivetrain even.
For a hybrid, it's got poor MPG! I get, up to 43.5 on a 70 mile journey, over country roads (50 to 60 mph roads) & some village roads, (30 to 40 mph roads) & some motorway (Highway Roads 70mph roads)
In a 2.0 2019 AWD Mitsubishi Outlander!
That's better, than the spec says!...
I've also had hight, mpg!
At the first, & second service (1 every 12 months)
They've commented, at how good mpg I've been getting!
Yes, I'm not a racer! I don't have, a heavy foot!...
I was hoping, this hybrid would easy get at least 45 mpg+ if not 50 mpg+ like diesel cars!..
Wowzers, this one only has slightly better mpg, than the European mild hybrid Sportage 2022!..
As usual with Kia/Hyundai it all looks good on paper, but…
The beauty of vehicle electrification isn’t just in the reduced fuel economy (which by the way isn’t even close to the EPA estimates on these), but rather the simplification of their drive systems which makes them more reliable than their purely ICE siblings. Toyota, Ford and Honda achieve this very well by using incredibly simple and sturdy drivetrains and engines that avoid turbos. Toyota and Honda’s engines aren’t even direct injection.
Hyundai/Kia basically take their regular engines and transmissions and just add complexity by bolting on electric generators. The mere issue of not being able to control the cooldown of your turbo spool by idling it because a hybrid will just turn off the engine bothers me. It’s not like Hyundai/Kia already don’t have enough issues with their engines and transmissions, right?
I appreciate that they made them larger, but the company still doesn’t get basic things.
Although reliability has been below Toyota's HSD hybrid design, most long term metrics based on the 1st gen hybrid system have been excellent.
@@EVBuyersGuide That’s the thing though… aside from the DCT (which has been problematic for them), the first generation hybrids from the company used a very basic setup - basic NA engine with a motor. That’s why they have been reliable. The whole point of electrification is to substitute large displacement or turbo with electric motor(s) and to basically get rid of regular transmissions.
@@afcgeo882 simply adding a turbo charger is not going make the biggest difference here in the average ownership cycle. Now at year 15 and 300,000 miles, possibly, but we'll have to wait for that data. For the average new car buyer I am not concerned, as a used car in five years or seven years, that might be a different story
@@EVBuyersGuide Adding one thing on top of another adds up. Once you make a lot of sacrifices, you end up having something that simply isn’t good. You honestly sound like a battered spouse, making excuses for something you know very well is objectively inferior in durability simply because it uses unnecessary complexity.
Durability for the average buyer isn’t a concern… until they spend days upon days driving loaners and then get horrible resale value, all because of something you can easily foresee happening.
Right now there are thousands of Hyundai/Kia owners who were told to park their cars until further notice, but keep making those monthly payments. These things DO matter.
@@EVBuyersGuide when are you going to review it??
Lest we forget Honda's CRV is all new in a couple of months. Regardless, the interior materials in this vehicle scream "I'm cheap"
It’s an interesting SUV for sure, but the risk of Kia and Hyundai catching fire still is a huge issue that has not been addressed well. These cars don’t last longer when they are a burnt carcass in a scrap yard
No thanks. My confidence level in Korean vehicles is not where I want it to be yet. My confidence level regarding EV's and their ongoing maintenance/repair costs is even far less than that. The good news is that this vehicle is not aimed at my demographic, so no harm, no foul.
I think it's quite ugly.
You talk way too fast and English is my mother tongue. not comfortable to listenn too ..... RUSHHHHHHH
He talks like a normal person. Sounds like the problem is on your end.
Too much plastic on the outside.... yuck