How the Kia Sportage Offers a Versatile and Fun Ride

While fun might not be the first word you think of when commuting back and forth to work or running errands, the Kia Sportage is set on convincing you otherwise. This sporty, functional, and, yes, fun SUV has been a mainstay of the Kia lineup since 1993. However, it wasn’t available in the United States until a few years later. While the first generation encountered many growing pains, the generation that followed and beyond has offered the everyday driver a strong option for elevating the entire driving experience.

At Rusty Wallace Kia of Knoxville, your local Kia dealer, we offer a wide selection of Sportage options, from the traditional gas-powered version to both a hybrid and plug-in hybrid model. Each Sportage gives drivers convenience, comfort, advanced technology, safety, and efficiency, which is a lot in a small but mighty package. Our team can help you navigate your choices to select the right one for your needs, as well as answer any questions you have along the way. Keep reading to learn more about the Sportage’s past, present, and future and why we think it’s the perfect option for the everyday driver.

Breaking Down the Sportage Generations

As mentioned, the first generation of the Kia Sportage had its fair share of ups and downs, including a hiatus between 2002 and 2005. It initially debuted in Asia in 1993 but didn’t reach American shores until 1995. Then, a few years later, Hyundai bought Kia to aid the brand in its recovery amid an Asian financial crisis. While things might have seemed bleak at the time, this merger was a win for both companies, allowing them to combine forces and provide a lineup focused on innovation, thoughtful design, advanced technology, and more.

When the second generation of the Sportage debuted in 2005 after taking a break for three years, it was based on the same platform as the Hyundai Tucson, which provided it with a larger footprint than before. Additionally, a new and improved 2.7L V6 engine, design, the choice of all-wheel or front-wheel drive, and an increased focus on safety made the Sportage’s second venture in the American automotive industry a success.

As the 2011 Sportage hit dealership lots, it was clear that Kia meant business. The third-generation Kia offered a rounded exterior rather than the boxy build of the past. A wide front grille and a more aggressive stance complemented the smooth body style, giving it the sporty and enjoyable vibe that is still present today. Drivers were also given more engine options, including a turbo 2.0L inline-four that offered 270 hp.

Kia continued to shift its design as the Sportage headed into its fourth generation. Leaning further into a smooth design both inside and out, drivers were also provided with standout tech features, like a seamless connection to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as increased quality and higher-end materials throughout the cabin. While these changes were enough to keep the Sportage at the top of its game, it was the fifth generation—waiting in the wings—that truly solidified the Sportage’s role as a strong contender in its class. That fifth generation continues today, offering you a variety of features that make the drive more enjoyable and fun.

What Does the 2024 Kia Sportage Offer Today’s Drivers?

The 2024 Kia Sportage, which is offered as a gas-powered, hybrid, or plug-in hybrid option, is part of the fifth generation that debuted in 2023. That debut offered a brand new, fully redesigned Sportage that caused drivers everywhere to grip their steering wheels a bit tighter and take notice. It also cemented Sportage’s spot at the top of its class.

The first thing you’ll notice about the 2024 Kia Sportage is that it has a look all its own, with long swooping lines, a low profile, engaging detailing, and an available two-tone roof. The Sportage is offered in seven trims, ranging from the base LX trim to the Sportage X-Pro Prestige. Something you won’t be able to see visually is the Sportage’s reliability and the fact that it comes with one of the best warranties in the business when choosing the model that best suits your needs. Additionally, the Sportage was awarded the “Most Dependable Compact SUV” award by J.D. Power for the 2023 model. These two factors give you increased peace of mind when choosing the Sportage as an everyday vehicle.

The 2024 Kia Sportage also gives you and your passengers plenty of room, with a class-leading cargo room and rear-seat legroom. Plus, you’ll enjoy the available Multi-Terrain All-Wheel Drive Mode for when Knoxville’s weather turns on a dime. Even better? Take full advantage of the all-wheel experience when you choose the Sportage X-Pro. The X-Pro gives the Sportage an exclusive look with two-tone paint, BF Goodrich All-Terrain Tires, 8.3 inches of ground clearance, and more.

Throughout the Kia Sportage lineup, you’ll find a plethora of amenities that make the drive easier, such as the available Smart Power Tailgate that automatically opens when it senses your key or the above-mentioned class-leading cargo space that provides you with 39.6 cu.ft. of storage behind the second row of seats. You’ll also love how the Sportage keeps you and your passengers connected, thanks to available features like wireless charging, easy-to-access 12.3-inch Dual Panoramic Displays, and more.

Last but not least, the 2024 Kia Sportage offers a bevy of driver assistance safety features that give you confidence during the drive, whether you’re navigating busy city streets or only driving a few blocks away. These features include standard features like a Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist-Pedestrian and Cyclist system, Lane Following Assist, and ParknDistance Warning-Rear. Additionally, you’ll gain added safety from available features like Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist and Safe Exit Warning systems. These are all part of Kia’s Drive Wise collection of driver assistance safety features.

Kia Sportage Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid Options

Beyond the features noted above, the 2024 Kia Sportage also provides efficiency, both in design and in fuel. You’ll find the front-wheel drive option offers a combined 28 MPG, while the all-wheel drive option provides you with 25 MPG. However, if you need more, you can ask our team about the Kia Sportage Hybrid and Sportage Plug-in Hybrid options.

For instance, the Kia Sportage Hybrid offers many of the same great features you’ll find in the gas-powered version, as well as the ability to travel up to 44 MPG on the highway thanks to its turbo hybrid powertrain. Meanwhile, the Sportage Plug-in Hybrid option can provide you with up to 34 miles of all-electric range. Regardless of which Kia Sportage option you choose, you’ll find efficiency, thoughtful design, advanced technology, and safety throughout.

Check Out the Kia Sportage Today

The Kia Sportage has had a long and winding road in the automotive industry, but the SUV has solidified its place in its class by offering a long list of amenities and modern styling that speaks to a wide range of drivers. Add to that the brand’s focus on sustainability, and the choice to drive the new 2024 Kia Sportage becomes a simple matter of “Which one?” The good news is that our team at Rusty Wallace Kia of Knoxville can help you determine which Sportage is best for your needs and answer any other questions you might have. If you’re ready to add some fun to your drive, check out the 2024 Kia Sportage today.