The Kia Sportage rolls into the new year still looking fresh while offering a variety of powertrain options for buyers to choose from. For 2025, Kia has made a few tweaks to the styling on the X-Line and X-Pro trims and introduced a new premium package on the EX trim. However, the Sportage remains largely unchanged from the previous year. So, if you’re considering purchasing a 2025 Kia Sportage, which model should you choose? Let’s walk through the lineup to help you decide.
Engine Options & Specs
The 2025 Kia Sportage offers a choice between three powertrains: a standard gas-powered model, a hybrid, and a plug-in hybrid.
- Gas-Only Model: Powered by a 2.5L inline 4-cylinder engine that produces 187 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque. It is paired with an 8-speed automatic gearbox and offers the option of front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.
- Hybrid Powertrain: This option features a 1.6L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine combined with an electric motor, delivering a total of 227 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque. Like the gas-only model, it can be configured with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.
- Plug-In Hybrid: Using the same turbocharged 4-cylinder engine as the hybrid, but with a more powerful electric motor, this version produces 261 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. It also includes a larger battery pack that provides more than 30 miles of all-electric driving. The plug-in hybrid is available exclusively with all-wheel drive.
Sportage LX
The Sportage LX is the entry-level trim and is available with either the gas-only or hybrid powertrain.
Key Features:
- 17-inch alloy wheels
- LED headlights and taillights
- Body-colored, power-adjustable exterior mirrors
- 12.2-inch LCD gauge cluster with an integrated 4.2-inch information cluster
- 8-inch touchscreen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
- Six-speaker sound system
Pricing:
- Gas-only, front-wheel drive: Starting at $28,500
- Hybrid, front-wheel drive: Starting at $29,965
- All-wheel drive: Additional $1,800 for either version
Sportage EX
The Sportage EX trim offers a more premium experience with additional features.
Key Features:
- 18-inch alloy wheels
- Heated side mirrors and rain-sensing wipers
- SynTex artificial leather interior
- Power-adjustable, heated front seats
- Dual-zone climate control
- 12.3-inch center display
- Wireless smartphone charging
Pricing:
- Gas-only, front-wheel drive: Starting at $33,665
- Hybrid, front-wheel drive: Starting at $33,750 (all-wheel drive standard)
New for 2025: The EX trim now offers an optional premium package that includes a panoramic sunroof and an intelligent powered rear liftgate.
Sportage X-Line
The Sportage X-Line is designed with a rugged appearance and is available in both gas-only and plug-in hybrid configurations.
Key Features:
- 19-inch gloss black alloy wheels
- Gloss black side mirrors and bumpers
- Raised roof rack
- Hydrographic wood cabin treatment
- SynTex premium interior trim
Pricing:
- Gas-only: Starting at $33,465
- Plug-in hybrid: Starting at $41,600
Sportage SX
The Sportage SX trim is focused on technology and comfort, with several upgraded features.
Key Features:
- 18-inch alloy wheels
- 12.3-inch digital panoramic gauge cluster display
- Panoramic sunroof with power sunshade
- Harman Kardon premium audio system
- Smart cruise control with stop and go
- Highway driving assist
Pricing:
- Gas-only, front-wheel drive: Starting at $34,165
Sportage SX-Prestige
The Sportage SX-Prestige combines the features of the SX with additional luxury and safety features.
Key Features:
- 19-inch alloy wheels
- LED fog lights
- SynTex premium seat trim with ventilation
- Surround view monitor system
- Blind view monitoring
- Rear collision avoidance
- Forward park distance warning
Pricing:
- Gas-only, front-wheel drive: Starting at $36,185
- Hybrid: Starting at $38,965 (all-wheel drive standard)
Sportage X-Pro & X-Pro Prestige
The X-Pro and X-Pro Prestige trims are the top of the line, designed for off-road enthusiasts.
Key Features:
- Multi-terrain drive mode system
- 17-inch alloy wheels with BF Goodrich all-terrain tires
- Heated windshield and wiper nozzles
- Matte black over fenders and side sill trim
- Alloy pedals (Prestige only)
- Heated and ventilated front seats (Prestige only)
Pricing:
- X-Pro: Starting at $37,665
- X-Pro Prestige: Starting at $39,465
Sportage X-Line Prestige
The Sportage X-Line Prestige is exclusively available as a plug-in hybrid and combines rugged styling with advanced technology.
Key Features:
- 19-inch alloy wheels
- 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster
- Power-adjustable front seats with heating
- Heated steering wheel
- Harman Kardon sound system
- Wireless charging
- Comprehensive safety suite
Pricing:
- Plug-in hybrid: Starting at $45,595
Which 2025 Sportage to Buy?
When deciding which 2025 Kia Sportage to buy, it’s essential to consider your priorities, whether they’re related to performance, features, or budget.
- Gas-Only Models: While the gas-only models are the most affordable, they lack the power and efficiency of the hybrid options. Unless you’re strictly budget-conscious and don’t mind the lower power output, the hybrids are generally a better choice.
- Regular Hybrid: The regular hybrid Sportage offers a great balance between power and efficiency. Among these, the Sportage EX Hybrid stands out as an excellent value, especially given that it comes standard with all-wheel drive, heated front seats, auto-sensing wipers, and wireless charging. For those who don’t need all the premium extras, the EX Hybrid provides a compelling package at a reasonable price point in the lower $30,000 range.
- SX Prestige Hybrid: If you’re looking for more luxury and technology, the Sportage SX Prestige Hybrid is worth considering. It offers significant upgrades, including a panoramic digital driver display, the Harman Kardon sound system, and a suite of advanced safety features. While it’s a jump in price to nearly $40,000, the added features and performance make it a solid option for those who want a more premium experience without breaking the bank.
- Plug-In Hybrid: For those interested in maximizing efficiency and the ability to drive on electric power alone, the Sportage X-Line Prestige is a well-equipped option. It’s the priciest in the lineup, starting at $45,595, but it offers the best of both worlds with rugged styling, advanced technology, and usable all-electric mileage.
- Off-Road Enthusiasts: If off-roading is a priority, the Sportage X-Pro or X-Pro Prestige models are your go-to choices. These trims provide enhanced capabilities with all-terrain tires, a multi-terrain drive mode system, and additional rugged features. The X-Pro Prestige adds luxury touches like ventilated seats and a premium audio system, making it a top pick for those who want both adventure and comfort.
Final Recommendation
For most buyers, the Sportage EX Hybrid strikes the best balance between features, performance, and price. However, if you’re willing to spend more for luxury and tech, the SX Prestige Hybrid is an excellent choice. For those who prioritize efficiency and don’t mind the higher price, the X-Line Prestige Plug-In Hybrid offers the most advanced powertrain and features.
