28 MPG combined from the 2024 Kia Sportage FWD with the 2.5L 4-cylinder engine won’t win any hypermiling awards, but it’s perfectly acceptable for a compact SUV designed for affordable family transportation. This isn’t a hybrid, nor is it intended to be a performance-oriented machine; it’s a practical, spacious, and value-packed vehicle for buyers who prioritize comfort, features, and price over outright fuel efficiency. These buyers often live in suburban environments and need a reliable vehicle for commuting, errands, and weekend trips, and while fuel economy is a consideration, it’s not the sole, or even primary deciding factor.

City and highway performance

The Sportage’s EPA ratings break down to 25 MPG in the city and 33 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the realities of stop-and-go traffic and lower speeds, while the highway number showcases the engine’s ability to cruise efficiently at a steady pace. The difference between city and highway MPG indicates the engine is optimized for highway driving, and drivers doing mostly city driving should adjust their fuel economy expectations accordingly.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the annual fuel cost for the 2024 Kia Sportage FWD 2.5L is $1,550. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Individual fuel costs will vary based on local gas prices, driving habits, and the amount of miles driven annually, but this provides a solid baseline for budgeting. Shoppers can use all Kia fuel economy data to see what fuel cost is typically.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized testing methodology, real-world MPG often differs. Aggressive acceleration, frequent hard braking, and carrying heavy loads can all negatively impact fuel economy. Headwinds on the highway or extreme temperatures that demand heavy AC or heat usage will cause MPG to dip, as well. However, reasonable drivers who accelerate smoothly, anticipate traffic flow, and stick to posted speed limits should find it easy to get very close to the EPA ratings–see SPORTAGE MPG across all years.

How it compares

The Honda CR-V, another popular compact SUV, achieves slightly higher fuel economy with its base 1.5L turbocharged engine, rated at 30 MPG combined with FWD. The Toyota RAV4, a perennial sales leader, comes in at 30 MPG combined with its standard 2.5L engine also with FWD. The Mazda CX-5, known for its sporty driving dynamics, manages 26 MPG combined with its standard 2.5L engine and FWD. While the Kia Sportage’s MPG is slightly below some of its main competitors, it often undercuts them on price and offers a good value, which balances out the slightly higher fuel costs for many buyers deciding between these vehicles.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration and smooth braking are crucial for maximizing fuel economy in any vehicle, including the Sportage. Avoid sudden bursts of speed and plan your stops ahead of time. This reduces the amount of energy wasted during acceleration and deceleration, conserving precious fuel.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which forces the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly (ideally every two weeks) and inflate them to the pressure indicated on the tire placard, typically found on the driver’s side doorjamb.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Carrying heavy items in the cargo area or back seat adds extra load to the vehicle, impacting fuel economy. Remove any items that are not essential for your daily driving, as this will allow the engine to operate more efficiently.

Minimize idling. Idling consumes fuel without moving the vehicle. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, consider turning off the engine, especially in parking lots or at long traffic lights. Restarting the engine consumes less fuel than idling for extended periods.

Plan your routes efficiently. Avoid congested areas and routes with numerous stop signs or traffic lights whenever possible. Choosing routes with fewer stops and starts allows for more consistent speeds and better fuel economy.