The 2020 Kia Sportage is available in four different trims. S, LX and EX models feature a 2.4L 4-cylinder engine that makes 181 horsepower, while the top-of-the-line SX Turbo uses a 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder rated at 240 horsepower. All four trim levels are available with all-wheel drive as a $1,500 option, but opting for AWD on the SX Turbo does decrease power slightly (it's rated at 237 horsepower) and will reduce fuel efficiency by a couple of miles per gallons. The only transmission choice is a 6-speed automatic.
Even base Kia models tend to be pretty well-equipped and the Sportage LX is no exception. Some surprising standard features are available on the under-24,000-dollar vehicle, including 17-inch alloy wheels, power adjustable outside mirrors, a rear spoiler, body-colored door handles, SiriusXM satellite radio, Apple Carplay/Android Auto, Bluetooth connectivity, a backup camera and steering wheel mounted audio and cruise controls.
Midlevel EX models build on the LX by adding roof rails, heated exterior mirrors, 18-inch wheels and additional chrome work to the exterior. Inside, EX-trimmed Sportages include an 8-inch touchscreen display, dual-zone climate control, heated front seats and leather seating surfaces.
The top-of-the-line SX Turbo comes with everything on the EX while jazzing up the interior with a bigger touchscreen in the center console, a harman/kardon sound system, a built-in navigation system, steering wheel mounted paddle shifters, an auto-dimming rearview mirror with a built-in garage door opener and LED interior lighting. The SX Turbo also comes with a full sensor suite, including a blind spot warning system, a lane departure warning system, an emergency autonomous braking system and rear cross-traffic alert. These sensors also make a very handy self-parking mode possible on the SX Turbo, again included as standard equipment. The SX Turbo looks upscale too, with bigger 19-inch wheels, a unique gloss-black grille, power-folding mirrors with integrated turn signals, a big panoramic sunroof, a powered liftgate and Bi-Xenon HID headlights.
