2017 Kia Sportage

2017 Kia Sportage Highlights

The 2017 model year introduces a complete redesign for the Kia Sportage crossover, marking its fourth generation. The transformation includes a bold new exterior design featuring a distinctive “tiger nose” front grille and uniquely positioned headlights. Dimensional increases enhance interior space, with a longer wheelbase providing improved passenger comfort. The chassis receives comprehensive structural improvements for enhanced rigidity, while both available engines undergo refinement for better performance and efficiency. The suspension system is completely revised, focusing on improved handling characteristics and ride comfort. The introduction of the latest UVO3 infotainment system brings modern connectivity features and enhanced user interface capabilities.

Key Details

• Compact crossover SUV platform
• Two-row, five-passenger seating
• Standard front-wheel drive (FWD) or available all-wheel drive (AWD)
• Two four-cylinder engine options
• Six-speed automatic transmission across all editions
• Updated UVO3 infotainment system with enhanced connectivity
• Increased structural rigidity for improved handling
• Available advanced driver assistance features

Benefits

• Spacious interior with increased passenger room
• Available turbocharged engine for enhanced performance
• Enhanced structural rigidity for better driving dynamics
• Refined suspension tuning for improved ride quality
• Standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration
• Comprehensive suite of available safety features
• Premium interior materials and build quality

Related: Here Are the Kia Sportage Years to Avoid

2017 Kia Sportage Overview

Performance

The 2017 Kia Sportage engine lineup features two powertrain options:

2.4-liter four-cylinder (LX and EX trims):

• 181 horsepower and 175 lb-ft of torque
• Six-speed automatic transmission
• Available in front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive
• Direct fuel injection technology
• Dual Continuous Variable Valve Timing (D-CVVT)

2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder (SX Turbo):

• 240 horsepower (FWD) or 237 horsepower (AWD)
• 260 lb-ft of torque
• Six-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters
• Available in front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive
• Twin-scroll turbocharger design
• Sport-tuned suspension calibration

Safety

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded the 2017 Kia Sportage a top five-star overall safety rating. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) named it a Top Safety Pick, the group’s second-highest designation, when equipped with front crash prevention.

Standard safety features include:

• Anti-lock braking system with brake assist
• Electronic stability control
• Traction control system
• Hill-start assist control
• Downhill brake control
• Multiple airbags, including side curtain coverage
• Rearview camera with dynamic guidelines

Advanced driver assistance features include:

• Automatic emergency braking
• Lane departure warning
• Blind spot detection
• Rear cross-traffic alert
• Front and rear parking sensors
• Automatic high beams
• Dynamic bending lights
• Adaptive cruise control

Driving

The 2017 Kia Sportage provides a well-balanced driving experience that caters to comfort and engagement. The steering system delivers good feedback while maintaining ease of parking. The revised suspension system offers improved handling characteristics without compromising ride quality, which is particularly noticeable on rough road surfaces.

The available driving modes (Eco, Normal, and Sport) allow drivers to tailor the vehicle's response to their preferences, adjusting throttle response, transmission shift points, and steering weight accordingly. The base 2.4-liter engine in the 2017 Kia Sportage LX and EX trims provides adequate power for daily driving needs, with smooth power delivery and reasonable acceleration.

The SX Turbo trim's turbocharged engine offers noticeably more spirited performance, particularly during highway passing maneuvers and merging situations. The available all-wheel-drive system enhances stability in varying weather conditions and provides additional confidence on challenging terrain.

Interior

The 2017 Kia Sportage interior showcases significant improvements in design and material quality. The cabin features a driver-centric layout with easily accessible controls and improved visibility. The increased dimensions result in better passenger space and enhanced cargo capacity.

• Notable interior features include:
• Available leather seating surfaces
• Heated and ventilated front seats
• 10-way power-adjustable driver's seat
• 8-way power-adjustable passenger seat
• Heated steering wheel
• Dual-zone automatic climate control
• Panoramic sunroof (available)
• 60/40 split-folding rear seats
• Power tailgate (available)
• Dual-level cargo floor
• Hidden storage compartments

Cargo space measurements:

• 30.7 cubic feet behind the rear seats
• 60.1 cubic feet with the rear seats folded

Technology

The 2017 model features Kia's updated UVO3 infotainment system with:

• 7-inch touchscreen (standard)
• 8-inch touchscreen with navigation (available)
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility
• Available Harman Kardon premium audio system
• Multiple USB ports and auxiliary input
• Bluetooth connectivity with voice recognition
• SiriusXM satellite radio
• Wireless phone charging pad (available)

Fuel Economy

EPA fuel economy ratings vary by engine and drivetrain configuration:

2.4-liter engine:

• FWD (mpg): 23 city / 30 highway / 26 combined
• AWD (mpg): 21 city / 25 highway / 23 combined

2.0-liter turbo engine:

• FWD (mpg): 21 city / 26 highway / 23 combined
• AWD (mpg): 20 city / 23 highway / 21 combined

The 2017 Kia Sportage gas tank size is 16.4 gallons, providing good range between fill-ups regardless of the powertrain.

2017 Kia Sportage Reviews

Consumer reviews on Kelley Blue Book rate the 2017 Kia Sportage 4.4 out of 5, with particular praise for its quality, reliability, and styling.

Reasons to Buy It

• Bold and distinctive exterior design
• Powerful turbocharged engine option
• Comprehensive safety features
• User-friendly technology interface
• Spacious and well-appointed interior
• Strong safety ratings across all tests
• Available premium features
• Refined ride quality
• Advanced all-wheel-drive system

Problems

• Below-average fuel economy compared to segment leaders
• Limited cargo space versus some competitors
• Firm ride with optional 19-inch wheels
• Some road noise at highway speeds
• Polarizing front-end styling
• Premium fuel is recommended for the turbo model

Explore: How Long Do Kia Sportages Last? The Scoop on Vehicle Lifespan

CoPilot's Take

The 2017 Kia Sportage represents a significant improvement over its predecessor, offering a compelling blend of style, features, and performance in the competitive compact crossover segment. While it may not lead the class in fuel economy or cargo space, it compensates with a well-designed interior, robust safety features, and an available turbocharged engine that sets it apart from many competitors.

The inclusion of advanced technology features and driver assistance systems puts it in line with luxury vehicles, which cost considerably more. The 2017 Kia Sportage EX hits a sweet spot in the lineup, offering a good balance of features and value, while the SX Turbo provides a more engaging driving experience for enthusiast-minded buyers.

2017 Kia Sportage FAQ

Is the 2017 Kia Sportage reliable?

The 2017 Kia Sportage has mixed reliability ratings. It rates 81 out of 100 (or “Great") for quality and reliability from J.D. Power, while Consumer Reports gives this Kia 26 out of 100. Further, a review of NHTSA records shows the 2017 Sportage has a history of engine and electrical system issues. These 2017 Kia Sportage problems don’t necessarily mean that the car should be avoided, but that a trusted mechanic should thoroughly inspect any example under consideration.

What are the common faults of the 2017 Kia Sportage?

Common issues reported for the 2017 Kia Sportage include:

• Climate control system glitches
• Minor electrical issues
• Occasional transmission hesitation
• Premature brake wear in some cases
• Infotainment system occasionally freezing
• Door seal wear
• Wind noise at higher speeds

How many miles will the 2017 Kia Sportage last?

A 2017 Kia Sportage can last 200,000 miles or more with proper maintenance. Many owners report reaching high mileage with regular service and careful driving habits. Following the recommended maintenance schedule and addressing issues promptly helps ensure maximum lifespan.

What is the recall on the 2017 Kia Sportage engine?

Four significant recalls have been issued for the 2017 Kia Sportage, two of which involved potential fire hazards that required special parking precautions.

The most recent recall (August 2023) addresses issues with the tow hitch harness:

• Problem affects vehicles with factory-installed or dealer-purchased tow hitch harness
• Debris and moisture can accumulate on the circuit board
• Risk of electrical short leading to fire
• Dealers will inspect and replace the fuse and/or tow hitch harness module as needed
• Owners are advised to park away from structures until repaired

A significant safety recall was issued in March 2021:

• Issue stems from the Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU)
• Potential for electrical short-circuit in the engine compartment
• Risk of engine compartment fire
• Remedy includes fuse replacement and possible software update
• Owners are advised to park outside until fixed

For vehicles that received previous engine replacements:

• Affects vehicles serviced under recall 17V-224, warranty, or Knock Sensor Detection System
• High-pressure fuel pipe may have been improperly installed during engine replacement
• Potential for fuel leaks
• Dealers will inspect and replace the fuel pipe if necessary

The earliest recall (November 2016) involved trailer brake lights:

• Affected vehicles with accessory trailer hitch wiring harness
• Malfunction could cause trailer brake lights to stay illuminated
• Created potential confusion for other drivers
• Required complete replacement of trailer tow hitch harness
• Violated Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 108

All recalls include free repairs at authorized Kia dealers.

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