Kia Sportage: TÜV Inspections Yield Mixed Results for Used Buyers
Kia Sportage generates contrasting impressions during TÜV testing
The popular compact SUV segment includes the Kia Sportage, which has been around since 1994 and is now in its fifth generation, introduced in 2021. Used car buyers should be aware of potential issues when considering the fourth-generation Sportage, particularly in light of TÜV inspections.
Quality Concerns
While the Kia Sportage fares well in axles and axle suspension checks, issues have been noted in the steering and steering joints, braking and lighting systems, and oil loss since the second TÜV inspection. Braking components and the exhaust system are generally unremarkable.
Design and Space
Measuring 4.48 meters in length, the Sportage fits within the compact SUV class alongside vehicles like the VW Tiguan, Nissan Qashqai, and Hyundai Tucson. Its muscular appearance is complemented by a spacious interior, with a straightforward cockpit and a trunk volume of up to 1,500 liters. The 2018 facelift introduced updated front-end styling and available LED headlights.
Engine Choices and Drivetrain
options were available in diesel and gasoline engines, as well as front- and all-wheel drive. The lineup featured diesel engines with 85 kW/115 PS, 104 kW/141 PS, 100 kW/136 PS, and 136 kW/185 PS, along with gasoline engines of 97 kW/132 PS and 130 kW/177 PS. Kia did away with self-igniters in the facelift and introduced a 1.6-liter mild hybrid engine in 115 PS and 136 PS configurations. All-wheel drive was available for the 136 PS variants and the top trim level.
Equipment and Safety
The base trim "Attract" offered standard features like air conditioning, radio, alloy wheels, electric windows, and exterior mirrors. Higher trims such as "Edition 7", "Vision", "Spirit", and "GT-Line" offered additional features like front and rear seat heating, navigation, cruise control, and rearview cameras. Kia also offered various packages to enhance technology, equipment, and safety aspects.
Buyer insights
When buying a used Kia Sportage, it's essential to prioritize checking for known weaknesses, such as suspension wear, brake system wear, lighting system issues, tire wear, oil leaks, exhaust system corrosion, and alignment problems. TÜV inspections typically highlight such issues impacting roadworthiness. Seeking official TÜV reports or databases for accurate information specific to the Kia Sportage is advisable.
Despite a few quality concerns, the fourth-generation Kia Sportage offers attractive design, comfort, and technology, depending on the initial purchase price. Purchasers seeking an automatic transmission should look for models equipped with one. Approximately 1500 used Sportage models are listed for sale on mobile.de, starting from around 10,000 euros.
- Used Cars
- Kia Models
- TÜV
- SUV
- Compact Class
- Common Issues
- Suspension wear, especially in bushes and shock absorbers
- Brake system wear, including discs and pads
- Lighting system faults such as bulbs or wiring issues
- Tire wear and alignment problems
- Minor oil leaks or engine compartment fluid leaks
- Exhaust system corrosion or damage
Used car buyers contemplating Kia models, specifically the compact SUV Kia Sportage, should be alert to common issues such as suspension wear, especially in bushes and shock absorbers, brake system wear, lighting system faults, tire wear, and alignment problems. These issues often surface during TÜV inspections for used cars in the SUV segment, especially in the fourth-generation Sportage. Prospective buyers are advised to prioritize checking for these problems and seek official TÜV reports or databases for accurate information specific to the Kia Sportage.
