Kia introduced the Sportage, its first sport utility vehicle (SUV), in 1993 as a 1994 model. Fast forward to today, and it’s the brand’s top-selling model. The Sportage line-up to includes six gasoline-powered, five hybrid models, and in 2023 it expanded further to add two plug-in hybrid electric models (PHEV), the first entries for Kia in this segment. Latino Traffic Report recently tested the 2026 Kia Sportage PHEV X-Line Prestige. It offers a decent electric range complemented by an impressive list of creature comforts.
Powered by a 1.6-liter, turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 177 horsepower and 195 lb.–ft. of torque and matched to a six-speed automatic transmission, the Sportage PHEV powertrain also includes a 66.9-kW electric motor and 13.8 kWh lithium polymer battery provide additional power. Equipped with all-wheel drive with Terrain Mode adds a selection of off-road surfaces: snow, mud and sand (new for 2026). To help improve on road performance, the PHEV offers a choice of three drive modes: Eco, Sport, and MyDrive.
For anyone who hears the word plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) and wonders how it differs from a typical hybrid, beyond the acronym, and why anyone would spend extra 
for one, here’s the deal. Like a hybrid, the PHEV combines fuel combustion and battery power to extend a vehicle’s fuel economy. Unlike, the hybrid, however, the PHEV can be charged to increase its electric power range, not as far as a purely electric vehicle (EV), but enough to get you to and from work, or the grocery store, or some other quick errand, without using gasoline. In the case of the Sportage PHEV, that amounts to a 32-mile range.
Charging can be done at home on a 110v outlet or with a 220v quick charger that cuts charge time to two hours. The plug, however, had an odd configuration that limited charging during the test but owners will undoubtedly figure it out. The Sportage PHEV average 32.8 miles per gallon (mpg) but jumped to 54 mpg on highway drives.
As a Sportage PHEV with the X-Line Prestige trim, the test model sits at the top of the line-up. This does increase expectations for extra bells and whistles and it didn’t disappoint. It’s refreshed exterior design, improves its curb appeal plus the test model came in a matte grey paint finish adding to its premium status.
The Prestige trim included a healthy list of standard features plus some fancy ones too, like a 12.3-inch center touchscreen for infotainment and other onboard functions, a blind-spot collision warning system, and smart cruise control with a distance setting and Stop and Go, among other features.
Fancy equipment on the test model included a 12.3-inch configurable instrument cluster (IP)—Kia has striking graphics on its vehicles—a head-up display, blinds-spot view camera in the IP, ventilated front seat
s to go along with the heated ones that come standard, plus heated rear seats, among other features. Both 12.3-inch screens are connected to give an impressive, sweeping view along the dash.
The longest running nameplate from the Kia brand, pricing for the Sportage starts at $30,285. The as-tested price came to $49,730.
Sí: The Kia Sportage PHEV offers a decent electric range as well as good gasoline fuel economy.
No: The test model was fairly pricey so that the Sportage may compete above its weight class.
Sorry, the comment form is closed at this time.