23 MPG combined. Those three little characters define the reality of the 2022 Kia Sportage AWD with the 2.4L four-cylinder engine. It’s not a stellar figure, and nobody buys this particular Sportage configuration for its groundbreaking efficiency. It’s a pragmatic choice for those who need all-wheel drive for winter weather peace of mind, appreciate the Sportage’s tidy dimensions and user-friendly interior, and are willing to accept middling fuel economy in exchange for those attributes.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2022 Kia Sportage AWD 2.4L at 22 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway. This delta between city and highway figures isn’t huge, suggesting that the Sportage’s six-speed automatic transmission and engine tuning are fairly consistent in their operation across a range of driving conditions. The six-speed automatic is adequate; it gets the job done. This isn’t a powertrain engineered for breathtaking acceleration, but it is designed for low-drama usability. Urban dwellers who spend their commutes stuck in stop-and-go traffic will likely see figures at or slightly below the 22 MPG city rating, while those who frequently undertake longer highway journeys might get closer to that 26 MPG mark, depending on driving style and speed.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2022 Kia Sportage AWD 2.4L at – precisely – $1,900. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using national average fuel prices as a baseline. Of course, the actual amount you spend on fuel will vary depending on local gas prices and your personal driving habits. The $1,900 figure offers a standardized way to compare this Sportage’s running costs against other vehicles. The EPA’s calculation assumes a relatively even split between city and highway driving, something worth considering if your driving patterns skew heavily towards one or the other.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA figures provide a standardized benchmark, real-world fuel economy often differs. Owners of this specific Sportage configuration report numbers very close to the official estimates. This isn’t a vehicle known for wildly exceeding or falling short of its listed MPG. Tire pressure, ambient temperature and cargo weight all play a huge factor in a vehicle’s fuel efficiency. Aggressive acceleration and frequent hard braking will, predictably, reduce fuel economy, as will sustained high speeds on the highway. Consider these factors when assessing whether the Sportage fits your lifestyle.

How it compares

The fuel economy of the 2022 Kia Sportage AWD 2.4L places it squarely in the middle of the compact SUV segment. A comparable Honda CR-V AWD achieves around 28 MPG combined, making it a considerably more frugal choice. The Toyota RAV4 AWD similarly boasts superior efficiency, nearing 30 MPG in combined driving. Even the Mazda CX-5, often praised for its driving dynamics rather than outright fuel savings, manages approximately 26 MPG combined in its AWD configuration. All of the mentioned vehicles are more fuel efficient compared to the SPORTAGE MPG across all years.

The Subaru Forester, with its standard all-wheel drive, achieves an EPA-estimated 29 MPG combined. For buyers prioritizing all-weather capability above all else, the Forester presents a more efficient alternative. The Jeep Compass, another AWD contender, only offers around 25 MPG combined, bringing it closer to the Sportage. However, buyers may choose the Sportage over the Compass thanks to its more modern interior and slightly better road manners.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid aggressive acceleration. The 2.4L engine in the Sportage responds best to smooth, consistent throttle inputs. Accelerating gently from a stop and anticipating traffic flow helps minimize fuel consumption. The engine works least hard when it’s not being pushed, allowing the transmission to shift smoother and more economically.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tires regularly and inflate them to the pressure recommended on the driver’s side door jamb. Even a small difference in pressure can have a measurable impact on fuel economy.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Carrying excess cargo adds strain on the engine, reducing fuel efficiency. Remove any unnecessary items from your vehicle, such as sports equipment or tools you don’t need on a daily basis. Minimizing weight is one of the easiest ways to improve MPG, regardless of driving style.

Avoid high speeds on the highway. The 2.4L engine’s efficiency decreases at higher speeds due to increased wind resistance and engine RPM. Maintaining a consistent speed within the legal limit, and using cruise control when appropriate, can help maximize fuel economy. Also consider that higher speeds are inherently dangerous to you and other drivers.

Consider the drive mode, if equipped, to select the most efficient setting. Choosing “Eco” mode, if available, will optimize engine and transmission settings for fuel economy. This may come at the cost of quicker acceleration but will certainly boost your mileage. Note the slight difference as you gather all Kia fuel economy data. Using the right drive mode can help keep you on the right MPG track.