The new Sportage draws attention thanks to its distinctive exterior styling. However, the update made the crossover safer and more comfortable. A hybrid engine provides a higher mileage so the vehicle is more competitive in the compact segment. The 2025 Kia Sportage won’t change too much since the mid-cycle update is planned for the 2026 season.
Hybrid version uses only three trim levels from the standard lineup, where you can find a few more models. More than 10 paintjobs are available for the crossover. Some are free, some you need to pay, some are available on higher trims, and there are even two-tone combinations. Depending on the interior material, you can also find several themes inside the cockpit.
After a year without changes, the upcoming model will update the color palette and the crossover might get some new features. Hybrid and PHEV systems are offering improved mileage and power. In the future, an all-electric Sportage is coming out. It might be called Kia EV5.
2025 Kia Sportage Specs
Under the hood of the crossover is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine all across the lineup. The powerplant supplies the 2025 Sportage with 187 hp and 178 lb-ft of torque. The gas mileage is not impressive with 26 mpg. An 8-speed gearbox sends power to the front or all wheels.
The hybrid system is putting out some serious numbers with 43 mpg combined. That is better than the Toyota Rav4 hybrid can do. An all-wheel drive is not so efficient with 38 mpg. Here, a 1.6-liter petrol engine is the main source of power and electric battery helps the system make 225 horsepower. Hybrid takes a bit more than 7 seconds to hit 60 mph.
The 2025 Kia Sportage PHEV is the ultimate upgrade. The same hybrid system gets a boost a from larger battery pack. The 0-60 mph time drops to under 7 seconds thanks to extra power (261 hp). The system returns 36/35 mpg and all-wheel drive is standard.
Trim Levels and Accessories
The lineup is new, although we can find familiar names. The company reshuffled options, added new features, and even launched the X-Pro model. All the configurations are back for the 2025 Kia Sportage. The base one is the LX. Some of the notable features are alloy wheels, LED headlights, an 8-inch touchscreen and a pretty long list of safety options. The EX upgrades the offer with larger 18-inch rims, hands-free entry, remote start, synthetic leather upholstery and a power-adjustable diver’s bucket. The LX and EX are also there for the hybrid engine with minor modifications.
The 2025 Kia Sportage X-Line is a mid-range model, or the entry-level if you want the PHEV system. Special 19-inch wheels, AWD and unique exterior details are making the X-Line package so distinctive. Premium leather wrap seats. The X-Line Prestige is the exclusive trim for the plug-in hybrid crossover.
The Sportage SX adds matte gray wheels, satin exterior accents, a hands-free liftgate, a driver’s seatwith memory settings, a huge 12.3-inch screen, a multimedia system with Harman Kardon audio, and adaptive cruise control. The SX Prestige takes the experience to the next level with 19-inch wheels, LED fog lights, a heated steering wheel, rear automatic brakes…
The 2025 Kia Sportage X-Pro is a unique build with all the options lower packages are offering. This is an off-road oriented trim with all-terrain tires and drive modes for different road conditions. Alloy pedals and a heated windshield are options you can’t find elsewhere. If you want to spice things up, the X-Pro Prestige adds equipment from SX Prestige model.
2025 Kia Sportage EV Is Coming Out, or it is Too Early?
The ultimate upgrade after the PHEV model is an all-electric Sportage. This is just an idea for now. However, Kia is already building some electric crossovers, such as Niro. The EV5 concept is very interesting, and it could underpin the 2025 Kia Sportage EV. Well, the vehicle could be a prototype, while the production is not going to start before 2026.
The EV5 concept has similar sizes as the Sportage. The first renders show a muscular crossover. The EV9 is the inspiration. The E-GMP platform is promising versatility and the Sportage EV could get a battery that will run for 300 miles.
Pricing
The base price of the crossover starts at $27,000, but you are getting alloy wheels and a few other goodies that other companies drop from entry-level packages to lower the price. Hybrid model is recommended. You pay $500, but 44 mpg will return the investment after 2,500 miles. The PHEV is a more serious investment with a starting price of $38,000. Only when you add the Prestige package or optional upgrades you can break the $40,000 mark. With a petrol or hybrid engine, it will take more upgrades. Most people opt for the EX or X-Line versions.
