2015-2021 Kia Sportage – used car review

The fourth-generation Kia Sportage arrived in New Zealand in 2015 and ran through to 2021. With sharp styling, improved interiors and a broad model mix, it quickly became one of Kia’s most popular SUVs. Buyers could choose from simple front-drive petrols for town use through to diesel AWDs for towing and touring, and equipment levels often outshone Japanese rivals for the money.

Engines and trims

Most Sportages on Kiwi roads are the 2.0-litre petrol with a six-speed auto and front-wheel drive. The powertrain is smooth and fine for everyday use but can feel stretched when fully loaded. The 2.4-litre petrol AWD brings a bit more grunt, while the 2.0-litre turbodiesel is the standout for performance and economy, delivering 400Nm and steady open-road cruising. All NZ cars used a conventional six-speed automatic rather than CVTs or dual-clutch units, which helps long-term reliability.

Trim levels were straightforward. LX was the entry point, usually paired with the 2.0 petrol. Standard kit included air conditioning, cruise control, reversing camera, Bluetooth, and 17-inch alloys, making it decent value against rival base models. The EX added features like dual-zone climate control, front and rear parking sensors, part-leather trim, upgraded audio and larger alloys. Many EX cars were sold with the diesel engine, making them a practical step up for families doing more kilometres. The Limited sat at the top of the tree, offered with 2.4 petrol AWD or 2.0 diesel AWD. It gained full leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, premium audio, navigation, HID or LED lighting, a powered tailgate and a suite of active safety tech. This is the one that makes the Sportage feel genuinely premium.

On the road

This is not a sporty SUV, but it is a comfortable one. The suspension is tuned for ride quality, and it feels secure and composed on the highway. Road and wind noise are well suppressed and the cabin quality is a big step up on earlier Sportages. The diesel models are especially good for long-distance work and towing, with a 1500kg braked tow rating.

In our testing, we found the diesel cruised with ease and never felt stressed, even on long trips. It is the sort of powertrain that suits New Zealand conditions, offering relaxed overtaking and decent fuel use. By contrast, the 2.0 petrol needed more encouragement, and as we put it at the time, it “requires a firm foot to get moving.” For town duties that is fine, but on the open road it can feel out of its depth. The steering is accurate and the ride well judged, keeping it competitive against the likes of the RAV4 and CX-5, even if it is not as sharp in the bends.

Practicality and safety

The cabin is roomy with a decent boot, split-folding rear seats and a useful full-size spare wheel on many NZ models. Rear passengers benefit from a reclining seatback, and the overall feel is family-friendly. Safety was a strong point, with a five-star ANCAP rating, six airbags and stability control. Upper trims added autonomous emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring and lane-departure warning, though early LX and EX models may lack these.

Reliability and what to look for

The QL Sportage has a generally solid reputation in NZ, with far fewer issues than earlier generations. The main watchpoint is a ABS/ESC module recall which will likely have been done, but it’s worth checking. Diesels need regular long runs to keep the DPF healthy and, as always, service history is crucial. Petrols are mechanically simple and generally trouble-free.

When new we found the cabin to be tightly screwed together, resisting rattles even after plenty of kilometres. That reflects what many owners have experienced, and Kia’s long warranty helps with peace of mind. Later examples were still covered by the seven-year factory warranty into their second ownership, which is a big advantage over rivals. When buying, check for uneven tyre wear, noisy suspension bushes and signs of heavy towing. Diesel examples should have evidence of regular servicing with the correct oil, and it pays to take any candidate for a longer test drive to confirm smooth DPF operation.

What you will pay

Trade Me listings show a wide spread depending on age, spec and kilometres:

2015–2017 2.0 petrol LX/EX (FWD): $11,000–$15,000
2017–2019 EX diesel or 2.4 AWD petrol: $18,000–$24,000
2019–2020 Limited AWD diesel: $22,000–$28,000
Late 2020–2021 Limited AWD diesel with low km: up to $30,000

These figures put the Sportage squarely in line with rivals like the Toyota RAV4 and Mazda CX-5, though Kia usually offered a bit more spec for the money.

Verdict

As a used buy, the 2015–2021 Kia Sportage is a strong contender. It looks smart, is easy to live with, and delivers plenty of equipment for the price. The diesel Limited AWD remains the sweet spot for Kiwi families who travel or tow, while the 2.0 petrol EX is a sensible, affordable urban choice.

In direct comparisons we often praised the Sportage’s balance, describing it as “the most complete offering in its class, if not the most exciting.” Against the RAV4 it felt more premium inside, while the CX-5 remained the driver’s pick. Against the mechanically similar Hyundai Tucson, it usually offered better value.

That sums up the QL Sportage well. It may not deliver thrills behind the wheel, but as a family SUV that covers style, safety and specification, it ticks the boxes that matter. For New Zealand buyers after a dependable, well-equipped mid-size SUV, it is still one of the smarter used choices around.  

Thanks to Fasst Auto for the loan of the CX-3. Find more of their cars at www.fasstauto.co.nz