2022 Kia Sportage review

The 2022 Kia Sportage is the first all-new version of the model in seven years, and is almost unrecognisable from its predecessor.

In many circles, Kia is still regarded as a ‘newcomer’ to our market, but its foray into passenger cars began in 1996 with the Mentor hatch and Sportage SUV.

Despite an inauspicious start, the Sportage has become Kia’s longest-selling and most popular model.

The latest generation has had a growth spurt and is based on Kia’s newest modular platform, a key feature of which is a longer wheelbase for more interior occupant space.

This platform also allows for greater powertrain flexibility, so high-spec versions are available with Kia’s 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine and seven-speed DCT, complementing the revised petrol and diesel variants.

How much does the 2022 Kia Sportage cost?

The line-up starts with the S, which has a six-speed manual and FWD 2.0-litre petrol engine for $34,690 (or $35,690 drive away for the auto).

The diesel S is AWD and lifts the price to $42,690. From there the range includes the SX, SX+ and GT-Line, topping out at $54,990 for the diesel.

Prices have risen around $2000 compared to the previous generation.

Kia Sportage 2022 styling and tech

The new Sportage’s styling is poles apart from the previous generation. The boomerang-shaped daytime running lights anchor a formidable-looking grille and headlamp design.

Sportback styling is the hot ticket now and the rear hatch glass tapers back towards the curved roof and features an integrated rear spoiler, emphasising the sporty design.

On the tech side, countering the rise is an increase in standard kit, with the S gaining wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay, LED lights, and more safety gear.

The GT-Line features a large curved digital instrument cluster and infotainment screen, Harman Kardon eight-speaker audio, and remote folding second-row seats.

Inside, a curved techno dash (in the SX+ and GT-Line) is first to grab your attention.

The instrument cluster is crisp and easy to read, and the centre console features a rotary dial for gear selection, with a smaller one for multi-terrain options.

Surprisingly, the electric handbrake release is on the right-hand side of the dash rather than in the console, which is better ergonomically.

How does the Kia Sportage 2022 perform?

Our GT-Line test car features the 1.6-litre turbo/seven-speed DCT combo, which has become a workhorse powertrain for the brand (and Hyundai) in a multitude of models.

In the Sportage it delivers an 18 per cent improvement in fuel consumption over the old 2.4-litre and we recorded 8.4L/100km on test.

Some typical DCT jerkiness is experienced at low speeds, detracting slightly from what is an excellent drivetrain.

Looking at the package in its entirety, the new Sportage seems to have all the bases covered and is a far cry from the original.

The 2022 Kia Sportage at a glance

• Engine: 2.0-litre four-cylinder
• Transmission: six-speed manual
• Power: 115kW
• Torque: 192Nm
• Fuel consumption: 7.7L/100km (claimed)
• ANCAP: Not tested
• Price: From $34,690 (plus ORC)