The 2017 Kia Sportage AWD with its 2.0L four-cylinder engine gets 21 MPG combined. This isn’t going to win any efficiency awards, and it sits noticeably lower than many competitors. However, buyers of this specific configuration likely accept this as a trade-off for the Sportage’s blend of practicality, all-weather capability, and value. They prioritize the security of all-wheel drive and the proven reliability of a naturally-aspirated engine over top-tier fuel savings.

City and highway performance

The EPA breaks down the Sportage AWD’s fuel economy estimates further, with 20 MPG in the city and 23 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the stop-and-go driving conditions where the engine spends more time idling and accelerating from a standstill. The less-than-stellar city MPG suggests that the Sportage’s all-wheel-drive system and traditional six-speed automatic transmission impose a noticeable load. The 23 MPG highway rating provides a glimmer of hope for longer trips, but it is still not exceptional. Drivers who primarily use their Sportage for commuting or short errands around town will likely see numbers closer to the 20 MPG figure, while those with longer highway commutes might edge closer to the 23 MPG mark. Understanding these separate ratings helps potential buyers assess whether the Sportage’s fuel consumption aligns with their typical driving patterns. This is particularly critical for those who live in urban environments, where the AWD system offers less of an advantage compared to the open road.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2017 Kia Sportage AWD 2.0L to be $2,100. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. The calculation assumes a roughly even split between city and highway driving. Your actual fuel costs may be higher or lower, depending on your individual driving habits, the specific routes you typically drive, and local fuel prices. Aggressive driving, frequent short trips in cold weather, and using premium fuel (which is not required) will all negatively impact fuel economy.

Conservative driving habits, sticking to routes that minimize stop-and-go traffic, and diligently maintaining the vehicle can help to keep fuel costs closer to the EPA estimate. This $2,100 figure provides a standardized benchmark for comparison, but it’s important to tailor your expectations based on your specific circumstances.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a useful baseline, real-world fuel economy inevitably varies. Many factors influence the mileage drivers actually achieve. Driving style plays a significant role, as does the type of terrain and weather conditions.

The 2.0L engine in the Sportage requires a heavier foot to achieve satisfactory acceleration, especially when merging onto highways or climbing hills which will reduce MPG. Owners who frequently carry passengers or cargo may find their fuel economy dips below the EPA estimates. Furthermore, tire pressure, vehicle maintenance, and even the grade of gasoline used can all have an impact. While some drivers may be able to match or even slightly exceed the EPA highway figure, it’s essential to be realistic about what to expect in day-to-day driving. The all-wheel-drive system, while adding security, contributes to increased weight and drivetrain loss, both of which impact fuel efficiency. If maximizing fuel economy is a top priority, the front-wheel-drive version of the Sportage may be a more appealing option.

How it compares

The 2017 Sportage AWD 2.0L’s 21 MPG combined fuel economy lags behind some of its key competitors. For example, the Honda CR-V AWD, a benchmark in the compact SUV segment, achieves approximately 27 MPG combined with its 1.5L turbocharged engine. The Toyota RAV4 AWD also outperforms the Sportage, delivering around 25 MPG combined. Even the Subaru Forester, known for its standard all-wheel drive, manages approximately 28 MPG combined with its 2.5L engine. These differences are significant, potentially translating to hundreds of dollars in fuel savings per year. However, the Sportage often holds an advantage in initial purchase price. Buyers may be willing to accept slightly lower fuel economy in exchange for a more affordable vehicle and a longer warranty from Kia. It is important to compare the long-term cost of ownership, factoring in both fuel expenses and potential maintenance costs, to make an informed decision. You can view SPORTAGE MPG across all years to see if other model years better suit your needs. You can also find all Kia fuel economy data to compare with other cars from the manufacturer.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid aggressive acceleration. The 2.0L engine benefits from a measured approach. Ease onto the accelerator and allow the transmission to shift smoothly. Rapid acceleration burns excessive fuel. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady speed whenever possible to conserve fuel.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended PSI. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. The correct tire pressure is typically listed on a sticker located on the driver’s side doorjamb or in the owner’s manual.

Minimize idling. Excessive idling wastes fuel and contributes to emissions. If you anticipate being stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern engines are designed to restart quickly and reliably, so the brief interruption is unlikely to cause any harm.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Remove any unnecessary items from the vehicle, especially heavy objects. Extra weight puts a strain on the engine and reduces fuel economy. A cluttered trunk can decrease your MPG, so remember to clean it out regularly.

Consider using cruise control on the highway. Cruise control helps maintain a consistent speed, which can improve fuel economy on long stretches of highway. However, avoid using cruise control in hilly terrain, as the system may downshift frequently, negating the fuel-saving benefits.