22 MPG combined is an honest, if unremarkable, figure for the 2018 Kia Sportage FE AWD 2.4L 4-cyl. It’s not going to win any efficiency awards, but it’s also not a deal-breaker for the Sportage’s target demographic: practical buyers who prioritize all-weather capability and cargo space over segment-leading fuel economy. These are people who need a reliable, versatile vehicle for daily commutes and weekend adventures, and they’re willing to accept average fuel consumption in exchange for those attributes.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2018 Kia Sportage FE AWD 2.4L at 21 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway. The lower city number reflects stop-and-go traffic and the inherent inefficiencies of internal combustion engines in those conditions. The 2.4L engine, while adequate, needs to work a bit harder in urban environments, especially with the added weight of the all-wheel-drive system. The highway figure is more palatable, as the Sportage can settle into a more efficient cruising speed. Overtaking maneuvers will require a downshift from the 6-speed automatic transmission that reduces fuel, but overall, highway driving returns the best economy this powertrain can muster.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2018 Kia Sportage FE AWD 2.4L at $2,000. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. It’s a useful benchmark for comparing running costs with other vehicles, but individual results will vary depending on driving habits and local fuel prices.

If you drive substantially more or less than 15,000 miles annually, or if fuel prices in your area are significantly higher or lower than the national average, your actual fuel costs will differ.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized estimate, real-world fuel economy often deviates. Aggressive driving, frequent short trips, and carrying heavy loads will all decrease fuel efficiency. Similarly, cold weather can negatively impact MPG, as the engine requires more fuel to reach optimal operating temperature and the AWD system may engage more frequently. Expect to see figures slightly below the EPA estimates under these conditions.

Conversely, gentle acceleration, consistent highway speeds, and diligent maintenance can help you achieve figures closer to, or even slightly above, the advertised MPG.

How it compares

The 2018 Sportage’s fuel economy places it squarely in the middle of the compact SUV segment. A comparable Honda CR-V AWD achieves 27 MPG combined, a noticeable advantage. The Toyota RAV4 AWD manages 25 MPG combined. Even the Mazda CX-5, known for its sporty driving dynamics, delivers a superior 24 MPG combined in its AWD guise. For buyers carefully considering their budget, knowing the SPORTAGE MPG across all years, as well as its competition, is essential.

To go deeper, consider all Kia fuel economy data.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid rapid acceleration. The 2.4L engine responds best to a smooth, measured throttle. Flooring the accelerator to merge onto the highway will quickly deplete your fuel tank. Instead, anticipate traffic flow and gradually build speed. This will not only improve your MPG but also contribute to a more relaxed and safer driving experience.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended levels specified on the doorjamb sticker.

In addition to improving fuel economy, proper tire inflation also extends tire life and enhances handling.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Hauling around extra cargo adds to the vehicle’s overall load, reducing fuel efficiency. Remove any items from the cargo area that you don’t need on a regular basis. Small changes can add up over time.

Consider using cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a consistent speed minimizes fluctuations in fuel consumption. While cruise control may not be ideal in heavy traffic, it can be beneficial on long stretches of open road, helping you maintain an optimal speed and avoid unintentional speeding.