Hey guys! Thinking about snagging a 2017 Kia Sportage? Awesome choice! It's a popular compact SUV, and for good reason. But before you dive in, let's break down if it's the right ride for you. We'll explore its performance, features, reliability, and overall value, so you can make an informed decision. Buckle up; it's going to be a fun ride!

Performance and Driving Experience

When it comes to performance and the driving experience, the 2017 Kia Sportage offers a pleasant balance. You've got a couple of engine options to choose from, which lets you tailor the driving experience to your needs. The standard engine is a 2.4-liter four-cylinder, which provides a decent amount of power for everyday driving. It's not going to win any races, but it's perfectly adequate for commuting, running errands, and generally getting around town. If you're looking for a little more pep in your step, the Sportage also offers a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. This one delivers a more spirited performance, making merging onto the highway and overtaking other vehicles a breeze. The turbocharged engine is a great option if you enjoy a more engaging driving experience.

The Sportage also handles surprisingly well for an SUV. The suspension is tuned to provide a comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road with ease. The steering is responsive and precise, giving you a good feel for the road. Whether you're navigating city streets or cruising on the highway, the Sportage feels confident and composed. Another thing worth mentioning is the availability of all-wheel drive (AWD). This is a fantastic feature, especially if you live in an area with harsh weather conditions. AWD provides added traction and stability, which can be a real lifesaver in snow, ice, or rain. The Sportage's AWD system automatically adjusts the power distribution to the wheels, maximizing grip and control. The Sportage also offers a variety of driving modes, such as Eco, Normal, and Sport. These modes adjust the engine, transmission, and steering settings to optimize performance and fuel efficiency. Eco mode prioritizes fuel economy, while Sport mode enhances acceleration and handling. You can easily switch between these modes to suit your driving style and the road conditions. Ultimately, the 2017 Kia Sportage offers a well-rounded driving experience that's both comfortable and engaging. Whether you're looking for a practical family car or a fun-to-drive daily commuter, the Sportage has something to offer.

Engine Options and Fuel Economy

Let's talk specifics. As mentioned, you have two engine choices. The base engine is a 2.4-liter four-cylinder that puts out around 181 horsepower. It's a solid choice for everyday driving and offers decent fuel economy. You can expect to get around 23 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway with this engine. The other option is a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder, which bumps the power up to around 240 horsepower. This engine provides a much more spirited driving experience, with quicker acceleration and more passing power. However, it does come with a slight trade-off in fuel economy, with ratings around 21 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway. The Sportage is equipped with a six-speed automatic transmission, regardless of the engine. It's a smooth and responsive transmission that helps the car get the most out of its engines.

Interior, Features, and Technology

Alright, let's step inside! The interior, features, and technology of the 2017 Kia Sportage are generally well-regarded. Kia did a great job with the design, materials, and overall layout. The cabin feels modern and upscale, especially in the higher trim levels. You'll find a good mix of soft-touch materials and well-placed controls. The seats are comfortable and supportive, even on long drives. The Sportage offers plenty of space for both passengers and cargo. Front and rear passengers have ample legroom and headroom. The cargo area is spacious and can easily accommodate luggage, groceries, or whatever you need to haul. The Sportage also offers a variety of features and technologies to make your driving experience more enjoyable and convenient.

Standard features on the base model typically include things like a rearview camera, a touchscreen infotainment system, and Bluetooth connectivity. As you move up the trim levels, you'll find even more goodies, such as leather upholstery, heated and ventilated seats, a panoramic sunroof, and advanced driver-assistance features. The infotainment system is user-friendly and responsive. It offers features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which allow you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone with the car's system. You can access your favorite apps, make calls, send texts, and listen to music, all through the car's touchscreen display. The Sportage also offers a range of advanced driver-assistance features, such as blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. These features can help to improve safety and provide peace of mind on the road. The 2017 Kia Sportage's interior is a pleasant place to spend time. It offers a combination of comfort, style, and technology that's sure to impress. It's clear that Kia put a lot of effort into making the Sportage feel like a premium vehicle. The design is modern and attractive, the materials are of good quality, and the features are plentiful. If you're looking for an SUV that's both practical and stylish, the Sportage is definitely worth considering.

Trim Levels and Available Features

The 2017 Kia Sportage came in three main trim levels: LX, EX, and SX. The LX is the base model, but it still comes with a decent amount of standard features, including a rearview camera, a 5-inch touchscreen display, and Bluetooth connectivity. The EX trim adds some extra goodies, such as a larger 7-inch touchscreen display, heated front seats, and dual-zone automatic climate control. Finally, the SX trim is the top-of-the-line model and includes all the features of the lower trims, plus things like a panoramic sunroof, leather upholstery, and a premium sound system. In terms of available features, the Sportage offers a wide range of options. You could get features like a power liftgate, a hands-free smart liftgate, and a wireless phone charger. Higher trims also offer advanced safety features like blind-spot detection, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, and forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking. These features add to the car's overall safety and can help to prevent accidents. Depending on the trim level and the options you choose, you can customize the Sportage to suit your needs and preferences. Kia gives you a lot of flexibility when it comes to features, so you can build a car that's perfect for you. No matter which trim level you choose, the 2017 Kia Sportage is a well-equipped SUV with a lot to offer.

Reliability and Common Problems

Reliability is a key factor when you're buying a used car. The 2017 Kia Sportage generally gets decent marks in this area, but it's not perfect. It's important to be aware of potential issues. Some owners have reported problems with the engine, specifically excessive oil consumption in some cases. It's a good idea to check the oil levels regularly and keep an eye out for any unusual noises or performance issues. Another area to watch out for is the infotainment system. While the system is generally user-friendly, some owners have reported glitches or malfunctions. Make sure to test the system thoroughly when you're checking out a potential purchase. As with any used car, it's a good idea to have a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic. They can identify any potential problems before you buy the car, saving you time, money, and headaches down the road. This is especially important for the 2017 Kia Sportage, given the potential for engine issues and infotainment system glitches. The good news is that these issues aren't widespread, and Kia has addressed some of them through recalls and software updates. Overall, the 2017 Kia Sportage is considered to be a reasonably reliable vehicle. By being aware of potential issues and taking the necessary precautions, you can minimize the risk of problems and enjoy your Sportage for years to come. Remember, proper maintenance is crucial to keeping any car running smoothly. Follow the recommended maintenance schedule in the owner's manual, and have your car serviced by a qualified mechanic. This will help to prevent problems and ensure that your Sportage remains reliable.

Recalls and Safety

When evaluating a used car, it is important to check for any recalls that may have been issued. The 2017 Kia Sportage has been subject to a few recalls over the years. These recalls generally address safety-related issues, so it's essential to ensure that any necessary repairs have been completed. You can check for recalls by visiting the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website and entering the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) of the Sportage you're considering. This will give you a list of any open recalls and let you know if the repairs have been done. In addition to recalls, it is also important to consider the safety ratings of the 2017 Kia Sportage. The Sportage generally received good ratings in crash tests conducted by the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) and the NHTSA. These ratings indicate how well the car performs in the event of a collision. However, safety ratings are just one aspect of vehicle safety. The Sportage also comes equipped with a variety of safety features, such as airbags, antilock brakes, and electronic stability control. Depending on the trim level, you may find other advanced safety features, such as blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. These features can help to prevent accidents and protect the occupants of the car. Always prioritize safety when considering a used car. Check for recalls, review safety ratings, and ensure that the car has the safety features you need. This will give you peace of mind knowing that you and your passengers are well-protected on the road. Taking these steps will help you make an informed decision and choose a safe and reliable vehicle.

Value for Money and Overall Verdict

Okay, so value for money is a biggie, right? The 2017 Kia Sportage offers pretty good value for what you get. It's often priced competitively compared to its rivals in the compact SUV segment. You'll find that it offers a lot of features for the price, especially in the higher trim levels. Things like a comfortable interior, a user-friendly infotainment system, and a good range of safety features all contribute to the value proposition. However, the exact value will depend on a number of factors, such as the trim level, mileage, condition, and location. It's always a good idea to do some research and compare prices before you buy. You can check online listings and compare prices of similar Sportage models in your area. This will give you a good idea of what a fair price is. Another factor to consider is the cost of ownership. The Sportage is generally fuel-efficient, but the cost of maintenance and repairs can vary. Be sure to factor in these costs when you're evaluating the overall value of the car. Despite a few potential drawbacks, the 2017 Kia Sportage is generally considered to be a good value for the money. It offers a well-rounded package of features, performance, and reliability at a competitive price point. When you take all of these factors into account, the 2017 Kia Sportage is a solid choice. It's a stylish, comfortable, and well-equipped compact SUV that offers a lot of value. But as with any used car, make sure to do your research, get a pre-purchase inspection, and consider your individual needs and preferences before making a decision.

Pros and Cons Summary

Here's a quick rundown of the pros and cons to help you make up your mind:

Pros:

• Stylish and modern design.
• Comfortable and well-appointed interior.
• User-friendly infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
• Available with advanced safety features.
• Good value for the money.
• Available with AWD for enhanced traction.

Cons:

• Potential for engine oil consumption issues.
• Infotainment system glitches reported by some owners.
• Fuel economy is average, especially with the turbocharged engine.

The Final Word

So, is the 2017 Kia Sportage a good car? Yes, generally speaking! It's a solid choice in the compact SUV class. It offers a stylish design, a comfortable interior, and a good array of features. Just make sure to do your homework. Check the service history, get a pre-purchase inspection, and be aware of the potential issues. If you do your due diligence, you can find yourself a great car that will serve you well for years to come. Happy hunting!