Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the 2022 Kia Sportage after taking it for a thorough test drive. If you're in the market for a new compact SUV, you've probably got the Sportage on your radar. It's been a popular choice for years, known for its value, features, and that sweet, sweet Kia warranty. But does the 2022 model live up to the hype? Let's find out!

First Impressions: Styling and Design

Okay, let's talk looks. The 2022 Sportage sports a refreshed exterior design, and I have to say, it's a definite improvement over the previous generation. The front grille is more prominent, giving it a bolder, more modern look. The headlights are sleek and stylish, and the overall lines of the vehicle are more refined. It's not going to win any beauty contests, but it's a solid, attractive design that should appeal to a wide range of buyers.

Stepping inside, the cabin is well-laid-out and feels surprisingly upscale for its price point. The materials are decent quality, and the dashboard design is clean and uncluttered. The touchscreen infotainment system is integrated nicely into the center console, and the controls are easy to reach and use. Visibility is good all around, thanks to the large windows and well-positioned mirrors. Overall, the interior is a comfortable and pleasant place to spend time.

Interior Comfort and Space: One of the standout features of the 2022 Sportage is its spacious interior. There's plenty of headroom and legroom in both the front and rear seats, making it comfortable for adults of all sizes. The rear seats also recline, which is a nice touch for long road trips. Cargo space is also generous, with plenty of room for groceries, luggage, or sports equipment. The rear seats fold down easily, creating even more space when needed.

Performance and Handling

Now, let's get to the good stuff – how does the 2022 Sportage drive? Under the hood, you'll find a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 181 horsepower. It's not the most powerful engine in its class, but it provides adequate acceleration for most driving situations. The engine is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission that shifts smoothly and efficiently.

On the road, the Sportage handles reasonably well. The steering is responsive, and the suspension does a good job of absorbing bumps and road imperfections. It's not the most sporty SUV on the market, but it's comfortable and composed, making it a good choice for daily commuting and family road trips. Fuel economy is decent, but not class-leading. You can expect to get around 23 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway.

Engine Options and Driving Dynamics: While the standard 2.4-liter engine is adequate, some drivers may find it lacking in power, especially when fully loaded with passengers and cargo. Unfortunately, there's no optional engine upgrade available for the 2022 Sportage. The ride quality is generally comfortable, but it can be a bit firm on rough roads. The Sportage is available with either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, depending on your needs and preferences.

Technology and Features

The 2022 Sportage comes standard with a host of technology and features, including an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a rearview camera. Higher trim levels add features like a larger 10.25-inch touchscreen, navigation, a premium sound system, and a panoramic sunroof. The infotainment system is easy to use and responsive, and the graphics are clear and sharp.

Safety Features: Kia has always prioritized safety, and the 2022 Sportage is no exception. It comes standard with a suite of advanced safety features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and lane keeping assist. Higher trim levels add features like blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. The Sportage has earned excellent safety ratings from both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), making it a safe and reliable choice for families.

Infotainment and Connectivity: Staying connected is crucial in today's world, and the 2022 Sportage delivers with its user-friendly infotainment system. The standard 8-inch touchscreen provides access to essential features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone. Upgrading to the larger 10.25-inch touchscreen adds navigation and other advanced features. The system is responsive and intuitive, making it easy to control your music, navigation, and other settings. Bluetooth connectivity is also standard, allowing you to make hands-free calls and stream audio wirelessly.

Trim Levels and Pricing

The 2022 Kia Sportage is available in four trim levels: LX, Nightfall Edition, EX, and SX Turbo. The base LX trim is well-equipped for the price, but the higher trim levels offer more features and amenities. The Nightfall Edition adds a unique blacked-out exterior trim, while the EX trim adds leather seats and a sunroof. The top-of-the-line SX Turbo trim gets a more powerful turbocharged engine and a sport-tuned suspension.

Value for Money: One of the biggest selling points of the Kia Sportage is its value for money. It offers a lot of features and equipment for its price point, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. The Sportage also comes with Kia's industry-leading 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, which provides peace of mind and helps to protect your investment.

Comparing Trims: Choosing the right trim level depends on your individual needs and budget. The base LX trim is a great option for those who want a well-equipped SUV at an affordable price. The Nightfall Edition adds a touch of style, while the EX trim offers more luxury features. The SX Turbo is the most performance-oriented trim, but it also comes with a higher price tag. Consider your priorities and budget when making your decision.

Pros and Cons

To summarize, here's a quick rundown of the pros and cons of the 2022 Kia Sportage:

Pros:

• Spacious interior
• User-friendly technology
• Excellent safety ratings
• Strong warranty
• Good value for money

Cons:

• Engine could be more powerful
• Fuel economy is not class-leading
• Ride quality can be firm on rough roads

Final Verdict

So, what's the final verdict on the 2022 Kia Sportage? Overall, it's a solid and well-rounded compact SUV that offers a lot of value for the money. It's not the most exciting or sporty SUV on the market, but it's comfortable, practical, and safe, making it a great choice for families and daily commuters. If you're looking for a reliable and affordable SUV with a long warranty, the 2022 Kia Sportage is definitely worth considering.

Would I buy one? Honestly, yeah, probably. The Sportage ticks a lot of boxes for what most people need in a compact SUV. It's practical, well-equipped, and backed by that awesome Kia warranty. Plus, the price is right. While it might not be the flashiest or most exciting choice, it's a smart and sensible one.

Hope this review helps you guys out! Let me know in the comments if you have any questions about the 2022 Kia Sportage. Happy driving!