Kia Sportage: years to avoid
From CarsJudge AI assessments — real verdicts, not forum folklore.
2011-2013
engine failure issues
2017
frequent transmission issues
2017-2018
Engine failures and high oil consumption reported
Safer bets
Years we've assessed that score 8/10+ and are NOT on the avoid list: 2025, 2026.
How the Kia Sportage years we've judged score
| Year | Grade | Reliability |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | B | 7.5/10 |
| 2025 | B+ | 78/10 |
| 2026 | A- | 8.5/10 |
Common problems to check
- Infotainment system glitches
- Occasional transmission shudders
- Minor electrical system glitches
- Occasional interior rattles
- Infotainment bugs
Ownership reality
Typical annual maintenance: $467 (CarsJudge AI assessment data).
Expected lifespan with proper care: 240,000 miles.
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Full Kia Sportage reviews by year
2013 Kia Sportage review2014 Kia Sportage review2017 Kia Sportage review2018 Kia Sportage review2019 Kia Sportage review2022 Kia Sportage review2023 Kia Sportage review2024 Kia Sportage review2025 Kia Sportage review2026 Kia Sportage review
Data: CarsJudge AI fleet assessments. Updated 2026-07-05.