Hyundai Tucson vs. Kia Sportage: A Complete 2025 Comparison

The Hyundai Tucson represents a bold design step, captivating primarily with its unique grille featuring hidden parametric lights. Its corporate sibling, the Kia Sportage, counters with an equally extravagant look, dominated by boomerang-shaped headlights and a sophisticated front end. Although both models are built on the same technical foundation, they differ in many respects, and we will now take a detailed look at which one might be the right choice for you.

Exterior Dimensions: A Battle of Twins on the Same Platform

Although the Hyundai Tucson and Kia Sportage have taken completely different design paths, a look at the dimensions table makes it clear that they are close relatives. The newer generations, the Tucson produced from 2020 and the Sportage from 2022, share the same technical platform, resulting in almost identical exterior dimensions. This is important news for the buyer – neither model has a significant practical advantage in this area.

Both cars are built on a chassis with an identical wheelbase of 2,680 mm and have the same width of 1,865 mm. In practice, this means they offer comparable interior space for passengers and are equally demanding in terms of parking space width. With a length of just over 4.5 metres and a height of 1,650 mm, both models rank among the larger compact SUVs, ensuring comfort on longer journeys without being too cumbersome in city traffic.

A very similar situation existed with the previous generations, which are widely available on the used car market (Tucson 2018–2020 and Sportage 2018–2022). Here too, the wheelbase was an identical 2,670 mm, and other dimensions differed by only a matter of millimetres. The Sportage was slightly longer and wider, while the Tucson countered with a negligibly taller body by one centimetre. The choice between these cars in terms of exterior dimensions thus depends more on design preference than on practical differences.

Practicality and luggage space are key parameters for family SUVs, and it is in this discipline that both Korean models excel and are at the top of their class. Although they share the same technical platform, we find interesting differences here. The Hyundai Tucson slightly wins this battle, offering a few more litres in its most spacious variant than its corporate sibling. This difference can be decisive for families who often travel with a lot of luggage or sports equipment.

The Hyundai Tucson (NX4 generation, from 2020) in its basic petrol engine version impresses with a boot capacity of 620 litres. When the rear seats are folded down, a space of up to 1799 litres is created. The Kia Sportage (NQ5 generation, from 2022) is close behind with very solid figures of 591 litres in the basic configuration and 1780 litres with the seats folded. The difference in basic capacity is therefore noticeable and represents the equivalent of a small travel bag.

However, it is important to realise that the boot capacity of both models varies depending on the chosen powertrain. Electrified versions (mild-hybrid, full-hybrid, and plug-in hybrid) have a slightly smaller boot due to the battery placement. For example, the plug-in hybrid Tucson offers 558 litres, while the Sportage with the same powertrain has 540 litres. Even in these variants, the Hyundai maintains a slight lead. For the buyer, this means that although both cars are exceptionally practical, the Tucson systematically offers a little more space, which can be a deciding factor when choosing a family car.

Towing Capacity: A Heavyweight Bout

For many SUV buyers, the ability to tow a trailer is a key factor. Whether it's a caravan for a holiday, a trailer with building materials, or a boat trailer, towing capacity can be the deciding factor in a purchase. In this respect, the Hyundai Tucson and Kia Sportage, as technically related models, are very similar, but there are important differences worth noting.

In the latest generations (Tucson NX4 from 2020, Sportage NQ5 from 2022), the most popular engine options, such as the petrol 1.6 T-GDI or the diesel 1.6 CRDi (including mild-hybrid variants), have a braked towing capacity of a solid 1650 kg. This is sufficient for most medium-sized caravans or trailers. However, the diesel version of the Kia Sportage, the 1.6 CRDi, offers up to 1950 kg in some specifications, slightly surpassing its sibling and making it a more attractive choice for those who need to tow heavier loads. If we look at the previous generations (around 2018-2020), we would find powerful two-litre diesel engines (2.0 CRDi) in both models, which reigned supreme with a capacity of up to 2200 kg.

A significant difference arises with the electrified versions. While conventional hybrids (HEV) generally maintain the ability to tow 1650 kg, you have to expect a compromise with plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variants. Due to the higher weight of the batteries, the maximum braked towing capacity drops to 1350 kg. This is still enough for a smaller caravan or a light trailer, but it may not be sufficient for more demanding tasks. For unbraked trailers, the situation is identical – both models can handle the standard 750 kg.

As a result, for everyday use, both cars are equal partners. However, if you are looking for maximum towing power, the winner is a specific version of the diesel Kia Sportage or older models of both brands with the two-litre diesel engine.

Engines: Emphasis on Electrification and Identical Technology

The Hyundai Tucson and Kia Sportage are technical siblings, which is most evident in their range of powertrains. In the latest generations (Tucson NX4 from 2020, Sportage NQ5 from 2022), both models have adopted the same strategy: a wide range of petrol and diesel engines with varying degrees of electrification. The foundation is the turbocharged 1.6 T-GDI four-cylinder and the 1.6 CRDi diesel. These are available in several variants – from mild-hybrid (MHEV) and full-hybrid (HEV) to plug-in hybrid (PHEV). For the buyer, this means one thing: whether they choose the Tucson or the Sportage, they get access to modern and almost identical technology. The differences lie more in the design and chassis tuning than in the heart of the car itself.

Hyundai Tucson Powertrains

For the current generation of the Tucson, Hyundai has prepared a very diverse range that covers all modern trends. The base is the 1.6 T-GDI petrol engine with 110 kW (150 hp), available both as a pure combustion version and as a 48V mild-hybrid. The more powerful 132 kW (180 hp) variant is always a mild-hybrid. For drivers who cover long distances, there is the 1.6 CRDi diesel with 100 kW (136 hp), also supported by a 48V mild-hybrid system. The pinnacle of efficiency and performance are the fully electrified versions. The Hybrid (HEV) combines a petrol engine with an electric motor to achieve a system output of 169 kW (230 hp), while the Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) offers an impressive 195 kW (265 hp) and the possibility of purely electric driving range. For all engine types, there is a choice between a manual, an intelligent manual (iMT), and a dual-clutch automatic transmission (7DCT), as well as between front-wheel and all-wheel drive.

Kia Sportage Powertrains

The Kia Sportage faithfully mirrors its sibling's lineup. Here too, the cornerstone is the 1.6 T-GDI petrol engine in two power variants: 110 kW (150 hp) and a more powerful 132 kW (180 hp). Both are available as mild-hybrids (MHEV). For diesel enthusiasts, there is the 1.6 CRDi engine with 100 kW (136 hp) and mild-hybrid assistance. Just like the Tucson, the Sportage excels in its hybrid versions. The Full-hybrid (HEV) provides a combined output of 169 kW (230 hp) and offers an excellent compromise between performance and fuel economy. At the top is the Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV), which has a total output of 195 kW (265 hp) and, thanks to a 13.8 kWh battery, allows for dozens of kilometres of purely electric driving. The Sportage also offers a choice between manual and dual-clutch automatic transmissions, and 4x2 or 4x4 drive.

Summary and Recommendation

The choice of engine for these two models is purely a matter of personal preference and needs, not differences between the brands.

• For calm drivers and shorter trips, the basic 1.6 T-GDI (110 kW) petrol engine without electrification will suffice.
• The mild-hybrid 1.6 T-GDI (110 kW or 132 kW) appears to be the ideal compromise for most users, offering good dynamics and slightly lower fuel consumption.
• For drivers with high annual mileage, especially on motorways, the economical 1.6 CRDi diesel engine is still the best choice.
• The full-hybrid (HEV) is intended for those who frequently drive in the city and want the lowest possible consumption without the need for external charging.
• For technology enthusiasts and drivers with access to charging, there is the plug-in hybrid (PHEV), which offers the best dynamics and the option of daily commuting with zero local emissions.

Choosing the right engine is key to long-term satisfaction with a car. In the case of the sibling models, the Tucson and Sportage, the choice is all the more interesting because they share virtually identical technology, but their typical configurations on the used car market may differ slightly. Our recommendations are based on a combination of performance, real-world fuel consumption, owner feedback, and mechanical reliability.

For the Hyundai Tucson, we recommend: 1.6 T-GDI 48V Mild-Hybrid (110 kW/150 hp or 132 kW/180 hp)

The turbocharged 1.6 T-GDI four-cylinder petrol engine, combined with mild-hybrid technology, represents the golden mean for the fourth-generation Tucson (from 2020). It offers an ideal compromise between dynamics, refinement, and running costs, making it an excellent choice for most drivers.

• Why it's the best choice: This engine is powerful enough for family trips and more spirited driving. The mild-hybrid system helps to compensate for turbo lag at low revs, smooths out the start-stop system's function, and slightly reduces fuel consumption, which in real-world driving ranges between 7 and 8.5 litres per 100 km. Compared to the basic naturally aspirated version (which was no longer offered in this generation), it provides incomparably better flexibility.
• Technical advantages: The direct fuel injection unit is refined and quiet. The 48V starter-generator recuperates energy during braking and then assists the combustion engine during acceleration, which has a positive effect on the smoothness of the ride. The engine pulls willingly from low revs and has a pleasant power delivery.
• Known risks: As with all direct injection (GDI) engines, frequent short trips with a cold engine can lead to carbon build-up on the intake valves. Prevention includes using high-quality fuel with additives and taking regular drives at higher revs outside the city, which allows the engine to "clean itself".
• Who is it ideal for: For drivers looking for a versatile SUV for mixed use – from daily commutes to work and city driving to family trips. It will be appreciated by those who prefer the refinement and quietness of a petrol engine but don't want to give up solid dynamics.

For the Kia Sportage, we recommend: 1.6 CRDi 48V Mild-Hybrid (100 kW/136 hp)

The 1.6 CRDi diesel engine, updated for the fourth generation after its facelift (2018-2022) and also used in the fifth generation (from 2022), is a safe bet for drivers with high annual mileage. The combination with mild-hybrid technology adds to its efficiency, especially in varied traffic conditions.

• Why it's the best choice: This engine is synonymous with economical operation. Long-term consumption easily stays between 5.5 and 6.5 litres of diesel per 100 km. Thanks to its high torque of 320 Nm (with the DCT automatic transmission), it offers a strong pull from low revs, which is ideal for overtaking and driving with a fully loaded car.
• Technical advantages: This is a proven and reliable unit that, in its latest evolutions, uses an AdBlue injection system to reduce emissions. The mild-hybrid system here works similarly to the one in the Tucson – it helps with smoothness and slightly reduces consumption, making it one of the most efficient engines in its class.
• Known risks: Like every modern diesel, this engine is equipped with a diesel particulate filter (DPF), which requires longer drives for proper regeneration. If you predominantly drive short routes in the city, there is a risk of it clogging. It is also important to top up the AdBlue solution; otherwise, the system will not allow the engine to start.
• Who is it ideal for: For drivers who often travel longer distances on motorways and main roads. An ideal choice for families who regularly travel on holiday, or for company purposes where low running costs and a long range on a single tank are paramount.

Official fuel consumption figures, measured under laboratory conditions of the WLTP cycle, are often optimistic. To get a realistic picture of running costs, it is much more valuable to look at data from actual owners. We therefore base our figures on the average values that drivers track long-term on portals such as Germany's Spritmonitor.de, focusing on generations relevant to the used car market, i.e., from around 2020.

The following table shows the average real-world consumption of the most common engine options for the Hyundai Tucson (4th generation, from 2020) and Kia Sportage (5th generation, from 2021).

\The consumption of plug-in hybrids is highly dependent on regular charging. The value shown applies to the first 100 km with a charged battery; on longer journeys without charging, consumption increases.*

From the table, it is clear at first glance that thanks to shared technology, both models are very similar in terms of fuel consumption. The differences within the same engine versions are practically negligible and fall within the range of statistical deviation. The key is therefore the choice of the powertrain itself. The mild-hybrid technology in petrol engines brings only a modest saving of around 0.3 litres per 100 km. A major breakthrough comes with the full hybrid version (HEV), which can reduce real consumption by almost a litre, something you will appreciate especially in urban and suburban traffic. For drivers with high annual mileage and frequent motorway journeys, the diesel engine remains the most economical choice, reliably staying below the six-litre mark.

As a result, fuel consumption is not a factor that should decide between the Tucson and the Sportage. Both cars have a virtually identical appetite. The decision should be based on which type of powertrain best suits your driving style – whether you prefer maximum economy on long journeys (diesel) or efficient city driving with lower emissions (full-hybrid).

When looking at the used car market, we find that the Hyundai Tucson and Kia Sportage hold their value very similarly and are among the most sought-after models. The price differences between them are often minimal and depend more on the specific year of manufacture, mileage, engine, and equipment level than on the brand itself.

Hyundai Tucson (4th generation, from 2020)

Four-year-old models of the fourth-generation Hyundai Tucson, i.e., cars from 2020 and 2021, are available on the used car market in a wide price spectrum. Basic 1.6 T-GDI petrol versions with a manual transmission and higher mileage can be purchased from around €16,000. Cars with lower mileage, an automatic transmission, or in higher trim levels, such as the popular N-Line, then climb to prices between €22,000 and €27,000.

Kia Sportage (end of 4th generation and beginning of 5th generation)

With the Kia Sportage, the situation is slightly different due to the generational change. Four-year-old cars can be either from the last years of the fourth generation's production (until 2021) or from the first years of the fifth generation (from the end of 2021).

• End of the 4th generation (approx. 2020-2021): The prices of these cars are very competitive with the Tucson. Well-equipped units with the 1.6 T-GDI engine and reasonable mileage range from €16,000 to €23,000.
• Start of the 5th generation (approx. from 2022): The newer generation logically holds a higher price. Used models of the fifth generation, which have been on the market for a shorter time, tend to start above the €22,000 mark for more basic specifications and climb higher depending on the equipment and engine.

Summary

Both cars are very evenly matched rivals on the used car market. In terms of price, they do not differ significantly for comparable model years and specifications. A slight advantage for those interested in the most modern design may be the fact that for a similar price as a 2020 Tucson, you can also get a fifth-generation Sportage from 2022, although likely in a more basic trim. The deciding factors in the choice will therefore be individual preferences, the specific condition of the car, and the offered equipment.

Safety: Five Stars for Both, but the Devil is in the Details

As befits modern family SUVs, both the Hyundai Tucson and Kia Sportage can boast the highest, five-star rating in the Euro NCAP crash tests. This is great news for buyers, but it's important to look at the context. The testing protocols are constantly becoming stricter, and therefore, ratings from different years are not directly comparable. A more recent test usually means the car had to meet stricter criteria.

Hyundai Tucson

The fourth-generation Hyundai Tucson underwent Euro NCAP tests in 2021 and took home a full five stars. It performed very well in the individual categories, scoring 86% for adult occupant protection and an even better 87% for child occupant protection. This attests to a robust construction and a well-designed interior. In the category of vulnerable road user protection, such as pedestrians and cyclists, it achieved 66%. The suite of assistance systems was rated at 70%. At the time of the test, the Tucson was praised, among other things, for its standardly equipped center airbag, which prevents injuries between the driver and front passenger in a side impact.

Kia Sportage

The fifth-generation Kia Sportage, which shares its technical platform with the Tucson, completed the crash tests a year later, in 2022. It also secured a five-star rating, and in some respects, it slightly surpassed its sibling. It scored 87% for adult occupant protection and 86% for child occupant protection. The score for vulnerable road user protection was identical to the Tucson's at 66%. However, in the key category of safety assistance systems, the Sportage performed slightly better with a score of 72%. The tests highlighted, for example, the well-functioning autonomous emergency braking system with cyclist detection.

Direct Comparison of Results

Although both models offer a top level of passive and active safety, the more recent test and slightly better rating in the area of assistance systems give the Kia Sportage a slight advantage. Its results reflect testing according to slightly newer and stricter standards. In practice, however, both cars are very similar and are among the safest in their class. The percentage differences are minimal, and both vehicles provide excellent protection for the whole family.

In addition to the standard equipment, each model offers several unique features that can be decisive for the customer, as both cars approach innovation and comfort in their own unique way.

Hyundai Tucson: Parametric Design and Digital Cockpit

The fourth-generation Hyundai Tucson (NX4) captivates primarily with its bold design and a fully digital interior concept aimed at tech-savvy drivers.

• Design and Lighting: The most distinctive feature is undoubtedly the "Parametric Jewel" daytime running lights, which are invisibly integrated into the grille when turned off. When the car is started, they illuminate to create a unique light signature. The rear lights are connected by a light bar and carry a similar triangular motif.
• Fully Digital Interior: The Tucson was one of the first vehicles in the mainstream segment to offer an instrument cluster without a traditional hood. This 10.25-inch open display feels modern and airy. The center console relies on touch-sensitive buttons instead of physical controls, which supports a clean and minimalist appearance.
• Innovative Driver-Assistance Systems: In addition to standard assistance systems, the Tucson features a Blind-Spot View Monitor (BVM), which projects a live feed from the side camera directly onto the digital instrument cluster when the turn signal is activated. This makes changing lanes significantly easier.
• Smart Practical Features: The "Multi-Air" mode uses a system of smaller openings in the dashboard in addition to the main vents to distribute air more gently and evenly, enhancing thermal comfort without unpleasant direct drafts.

Kia Sportage: Progressive Style and a Curved Display

The fifth-generation Kia Sportage (NQ5) counters with a completely different, more organic design and an interior that emphasizes the connection between the driver and technology through a massive curved display.

• Distinctive Front End and Lights: The Sportage's design is defined by a large "tiger nose" grille, which incorporates futuristic boomerang-shaped daytime running lights. The main headlights (Matrix-LED in the highest trims) are positioned lower, completing the vehicle's unmistakable appearance.
• Integrated Curved Screen: The interior is dominated by a panoramic, curved panel that elegantly combines a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.3-inch infotainment screen. This setup feels premium and is slightly angled towards the driver for improved ergonomics.
• Switchable Control Panel: Below the central air vents, there is a clever touch-sensitive panel that allows users to switch between climate and infotainment (media, navigation) controls. A single touch changes the function of the rotary dials and touchpads, which saves space and simplifies the dashboard layout.
• Practicality in the Details: The Sportage offers clever features like integrated hangers and USB-C ports built directly into the back of the front seats. The front headrests also have a unique shape that allows for conveniently hanging a coat or a handbag.

Hyundai Tucson

Advantages:

• Extravagant and futuristic design: The fourth-generation Tucson features a bold design with parametric hidden headlights that guarantee it won't go unnoticed on the road.
• Spacious and modern interior: The cabin offers plenty of space for occupants and a generous luggage capacity of up to 620 liters (depending on the powertrain).
• Wide range of powertrains: A diverse range of engines is available, including efficient hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants, as well as all-wheel-drive versions.
• High level of equipment: Even in its base trims, the Tucson offers a wealth of safety and comfort features, including many modern driver-assistance systems.
• Comfortable suspension: The ride is primarily focused on comfort, filtering out road imperfections well and ensuring a smooth journey on long trips.

Disadvantages:

• Touch-sensitive controls: On versions with the larger screen, the infotainment and climate controls rely almost exclusively on touch-sensitive surfaces, which can be distracting while driving.
• The design may not appeal to everyone: Its very bold appearance might be too extravagant for more conservative customers.
• Placement of rear turn signals: The turn signals and reverse lights are positioned low in the bumper, which impairs their visibility for other drivers.
• Some assistance systems are overeager: Alerts for speed limits or lane-keeping can be too active and intrusive for some drivers.

Kia Sportage

Advantages:

• Huge luggage compartment: With a capacity of up to 591 liters for the combustion engine versions, the Sportage is at the absolute top of its class and surpasses most of its competitors in terms of practicality.
• Balanced driving characteristics: The suspension offers an excellent compromise between comfort and cornering confidence, feeling slightly more agile than the Tucson in some versions.
• Original yet user-friendly interior: The dashboard with the curved display looks modern but maintains a clear layout, and some versions have a practical switchable panel for controlling the climate and media.
• Seven-year factory warranty: A traditional advantage of the Kia brand, it provides owners with a longer period of peace of mind and can increase the vehicle's residual value.
• Wide selection of engines and drivetrains: Similar to the Tucson, the Sportage also offers a wide range of engines, from petrol and diesel to full-hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions.

Disadvantages:

• Striking and controversial front-end design: The front end, with its unconventionally shaped lights and large grille, may not appeal to everyone's taste.
• Glossy plastics in the interior: The use of glossy black plastic on the center console and other parts of the interior makes it susceptible to fingerprints and scratches.
• Higher noise levels at higher speeds: In a direct comparison, the Sportage can be somewhat noisier at highway speeds than some of its competitors.
• Real-world fuel consumption of base engines: The base 1.6 T-GDI petrol engine can have significantly higher fuel consumption during more spirited driving or in urban environments.

Based on our own CarAudit inspections, reliability statistics, and service bulletins, we have compiled an overview of the most common problems that used car buyers should watch out for. Although the Hyundai Tucson and Kia Sportage are technically related vehicles and share many components, their reliability can differ in the details.

Hyundai Tucson (4th generation, from 2020)

The fourth-generation Tucson is generally considered a reliable car, but a few recurring problems do appear. Most of them are solvable and shouldn't deter you from buying, but it's good to be aware of them and watch out for them when choosing a used car.

• Transmission: The most frequently discussed issues concern the seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (7DCT). In some cars, especially from the first years of production (2020–2021), owners complain about jerky shifting at low speeds and delayed responses. The problem is often solved by a control unit software update; in worse cases, the clutch pack needs to be replaced. Regular transmission fluid changes, ideally every 60,000 km, are important.
• 1.6 T-GDI Engine: With the turbocharged petrol engine, premature timing chain wear can rarely occur, even at around 80,000 km. It manifests as a rattling sound after a cold start. Strictly adhering to oil change service intervals (ideally shortened to 15,000 km) minimises this risk.
• Electronics and Assistance Systems: There are occasional complaints about the blind-spot monitoring assistant, which can report an error for no reason. The problem is usually software-related and is resolved by a firmware update at an authorised service centre. Some users have also reported issues with the electric tailgate, which sometimes fails to respond to commands.
• Recalls: Several recalls have been issued for this generation of Tucson. They concerned, for example, the possible incorrect installation of side curtain airbags, a faulty brake booster vacuum pump, or a problem with the anti-pinch protection on the rear windows. When buying a used car, it is crucial to check whether the specific vehicle was affected and if the recalls were carried out.

Summary for the Tucson: The problems tend to relate to individual components and are mostly solvable. These are not major design flaws. The key to trouble-free operation is a thorough technical inspection of the car before purchase and verification of its recall history.

Kia Sportage (5th generation, from 2021)

The fifth-generation Sportage shares its technology with the Tucson, so similar issues may occur. Overall, however, it performs very well in reliability ratings, and the number of reported problems is relatively low.

• Transmission: As with the Tucson, the seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (7DCT) is the most discussed topic here as well. Some owners report occasional jerking or hesitation when starting off. In this case, too, a software update and a preventive oil change are recommended. In rare cases, a burnt-out clutch can occur, which requires a more expensive repair.
• Electronics and Infotainment: Although the system is rated as clear and fast, there have been isolated cases of the screen freezing or connectivity issues (Apple CarPlay/Android Auto). These are usually software bugs that are resolved by updates available at the service centre.
• Chassis: On early models, there were complaints of creaking from the rear axle, audible when driving over bumps. The manufacturer addressed this problem under warranty by replacing some suspension components. During a physical inspection of a used car, it's worth paying attention to noises from the chassis.
• Recalls: A recall was also issued for this generation of Sportage concerning the engine's vacuum pump, damage to which could lead to a reduction in brake booster function. It is essential to check before purchase whether this service action has been performed on the vehicle.

Summary for the Sportage: The Kia Sportage is considered a very reliable SUV, and the reported problems are not widespread. They are mostly minor issues that can be resolved under warranty or during regular servicing. The behaviour of the dual-clutch transmission deserves the most attention; it should be smooth and free of any disruptive symptoms during a test drive.

A thorough inspection is key when buying a used car, and this is no different even for reliable models like the Tucson and Sportage. Here are a few specific points to focus on with these two models to avoid potential problems.

When choosing a used Hyundai Tucson:

• Behaviour of the dual-clutch transmission (7DCT): During the test drive, focus on the smoothness of the gear shifts. The transmission should not jerk or shudder when starting off or crawling in traffic. Also, try harder acceleration – any hesitation or jerky shifting could signal worn clutches or a problem with the mechatronics.
• Functionality of the infotainment and electronics: Carefully click through all the functions of the onboard system. Make sure the display responds quickly, the navigation works correctly, and the phone connectivity (Apple CarPlay, Android Auto) is stable. Occasional system freezes can be solved by a software update, but more frequent problems may indicate a hardware fault.
• Condition of the hybrid system: On mild-hybrid and full-hybrid versions, monitor the smoothness of the transitions between the electric and combustion engines. Any noticeable jerking or delays are not normal. For plug-in hybrids, verify the real-world electric range, which should not be dramatically lower than the stated values.
• Play in the steering and chassis: While driving over bumps, listen for any knocking or creaking sounds from the chassis. On a flat stretch, try moving the steering wheel quickly from side to side at low speed. Any noticeable play or knocking could indicate worn pins or bushings, which is important to check as part of a comprehensive vehicle inspection.

When choosing a used Kia Sportage:

• Check the 1.6 T-GDI engines: Although these engines are generally reliable, they are more sensitive to fuel quality and regular oil changes. Listen to the engine during a cold start – any rattling sounds may indicate a problem with the timing chain. During a drive, the engine should run smoothly and quietly without any RPM fluctuations.
• Test the automatic transmission: Similar to the Tucson, test the dual-clutch transmission in various modes. Focus on smoothness when parking and maneuvering at low speeds. Unusual noises or rough shifting can be a sign of a costly repair.
• Condition of the electronic parking brake: Activate and deactivate the brake several times in a row. It should operate smoothly and without any warning messages on the dashboard. Jamming or slow response may indicate a problem with the mechanism or the control unit.
• Inspect the chassis and shock absorbers: The Sportage has a stiffer chassis setup, but this should not be at the expense of comfort. Any excessive bouncing or jolts when driving over bumps may indicate worn-out shock absorbers. A physical inspection of the used car should also include checking for any oil leaks from the shock absorbers.

Sources: ADAC, whatcar.com, autocar.co.uk, greencarreports.com, automotive-fleet.com, chargedevs.com

This article was prepared using artificial intelligence tools. The section is guaranteed by Petr Dušek.