The 2025 Kia Sportage SX+ AWD is powered by a 1.6-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine producing 132kW and 265Nm. Power is delivered to all four wheels through a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.
Performance is more than adequate for everyday family duties, with the turbocharged engine providing strong mid-range response and smooth highway overtaking ability. While the dual-clutch transmission can occasionally feel hesitant at very low speeds compared with a traditional automatic, it generally performs well once underway.
The AWD system provides additional confidence in wet conditions and on loose surfaces without compromising day-to-day drivability.
Verdict: Strong turbocharged performance and all-wheel-drive capability make the Sportage easy to live with.
The Sportage SX+ AWD 1.6T petrol has a claimed combined fuel consumption figure of 7.2L/100km.
This is competitive for a turbocharged petrol AWD SUV, although hybrid rivals such as the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid and Hyundai Tucson Hybrid offer noticeably lower fuel consumption figures.
For buyers covering significant annual mileage, the hybrid alternatives may provide lower running costs over time.
Verdict: Competitive for a petrol AWD SUV, though hybrids remain the efficiency benchmark.
The Sportage continues to impress with one of the most spacious cabins in the segment. The SX+ features a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with satellite navigation, wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto, along with a 4.2-inch supervision display within the instrument cluster.
Additional equipment includes wireless phone charging, a power-adjustable driver's seat, heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, a powered tailgate and Kia Connect connected-car services.
Rear passenger accommodation is excellent thanks to the Sportage's generous 2,755mm wheelbase, while boot space measures 543 litres with the rear seats upright.
Material quality throughout the cabin is strong and the layout remains intuitive and user-friendly.
Verdict: Spacious, practical and well-equipped, making it an excellent family SUV.
The Sportage's bold styling helps it stand out in a crowded segment. The distinctive grille, sharp LED lighting signature and angular bodywork give it a more modern appearance than many rivals.
The SX+ rides on 18-inch alloy wheels and measures 4,660mm long and 1,865mm wide, giving it a strong road presence without becoming difficult to manoeuvre in urban environments.
Verdict: Modern styling that continues to look fresh several years into the current generation.
The 2025 Kia Sportage carries a 5-star ANCAP safety rating and comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of active safety technologies.
Standard features include Autonomous Emergency Braking with Junction Turning Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Lane Following Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop and Go, Blind Spot Collision Avoidance Assist, Rear Cross Traffic Collision Avoidance Assist, Traffic Sign Recognition and Driver Attention Warning.
The Sportage's safety package remains one of the strongest available in the mainstream SUV segment.
Verdict: Excellent safety credentials and a comprehensive driver assistance suite.
Kia continues to offer one of the best warranties in the Australian market with seven years of unlimited-kilometre coverage.
Combined with competitive servicing costs, strong equipment levels and a practical cabin, the Sportage SX+ AWD presents a compelling ownership proposition.
The SX+ grade strikes a particularly attractive balance between features and affordability, sitting comfortably between the entry-level grades and the more expensive GT-Line.
Verdict: Strong ownership benefits and generous equipment levels enhance overall value.
The 2025 Kia Sportage SX+ AWD remains one of the strongest all-rounders in the medium SUV segment. It combines a spacious and practical interior with strong safety credentials, modern technology and the reassurance of Kia's seven-year warranty.
While hybrid rivals offer lower fuel consumption, the turbocharged petrol engine delivers solid performance and makes the Sportage an easy vehicle to recommend for families seeking a comfortable and versatile SUV.
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