When the 2019 Kia Sportage first rolled into showrooms, it arrived at a moment when compact SUVs were starting to feel a little predictable. Many automakers were playing it safe, focusing on practicality over personality. Kia, however, took a different path. The Sportage offered something that instantly stood out—distinctive styling, a surprisingly premium interior for its class, and a drive quality that felt more European than mainstream Korean. Even today, several years later, the 2019 Sportage remains one of the most recommended used crossovers for buyers seeking strong value without sacrificing comfort or features.
Whether someone is cross-shopping it with a Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Hyundai Tucson, Mazda CX-5, or simply hunting for a dependable family SUV, the 2019 Sportage deserves a close look. This complete overview breaks down everything you need to know: design, interior practicality, powertrain performance, trim levels, technology, safety ratings, fuel economy, and what it’s like to live with on a daily basis.
A Quick Look at the 2019 Kia Sportage
The 2019 model is part of the fourth generation of the Sportage, a lineup known for sharp styling and impressive build quality. Even though it didn’t receive a major redesign this year, it continued to deliver a balanced combination of comfort, technology, and performance. Broadly speaking, it caters to two kinds of drivers:
- Those who want a smooth, quiet, reliable daily SUV
- Those who want added punch and features without paying luxury-car prices
Available in three trims—LX, EX, and SX Turbo—the Sportage offers two engines, optional all-wheel drive, and Kia’s famous long warranty.
Exterior Design: Sporty, Bold, and Still Eye-Catching
One reason the 2019 Sportage still gets attention on the road is its bold styling. The front fascia features Kia’s signature “tiger-nose” grille paired with high-mounted headlights that give it an athletic, almost European stance. The proportions are tight and muscular, avoiding the boxy shape that many compact SUVs fall into.
Details like LED daytime running lights, sporty alloy wheel options, and contrasting black trim pieces contribute to a modern, upscale look. The rear styling is clean and well-balanced, with a broad tailgate design and stylish taillights that wrap into the body. It’s a design that has aged gracefully—something not all crossovers can claim.
Interior Quality: Comfortable, Refined, and Surprisingly Premium
Where the 2019 Sportage really outshines many rivals is inside the cabin. The moment you sit down, it feels more like a near-luxury compact SUV rather than a budget-friendly one.
Comfort and Space
The seats are well-cushioned and supportive, making long drives far more comfortable than expected in this segment. Front passengers enjoy excellent headroom and legroom, while rear-seat occupants get enough space for daily family use. It’s not the roomiest interior in the class, but the layout is smart and never feels cramped.
Fit and Finish
The dashboard design is simple and driver-focused, with soft-touch materials and a high-quality feel throughout. Buttons and knobs have a reassuring tactility, and the overall craftsmanship exceeds what you’d typically expect at this price point.
Cargo Capacity
Behind the rear seats, you get a practical cargo area that accommodates groceries, luggage, and weekend gear with ease. With the seats folded down, the Sportage offers significantly more space —perfect for road trips, sports equipment, or making runs to the home improvement store.
Technology & Infotainment: Easy to Use and Well-Equipped
The 2019 Kia Sportage delivers one of the most user-friendly infotainment setups in the class. Even the base models come with the essentials, while higher trims add genuinely useful upgrades.
Infotainment Highlights
- Intuitive touchscreen interface
- Bluetooth connectivity
- USB ports for charging and media
- Smartphone integration features
- Clear menus & fast response times
Higher trims offer larger screens, better audio systems, and advanced connectivity options. The system’s responsiveness and layout make it ideal for daily commuting, and it avoids the overcomplicated “touch-only” designs that some competitors introduced during this era.
Performance: Smooth, Stable, and Optionally Sporty
The 2019 Sportage offers two distinct engine choices, each catering to a different type of driver.
2.4L Engine (LX & EX)
This naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine delivers dependable power for daily use. It feels steady and confident during city driving and maintains a relaxed, quiet demeanor on the highway. Acceleration isn’t aggressive, but it’s more than sufficient for family commuting and long-distance travel.
2.0L Turbo Engine (SX Turbo)
This is where the Sportage transforms into something more dynamic. The turbocharged engine brings lively acceleration and adds character that enthusiasts will appreciate. Overtaking on the highway becomes effortless, and the engine pairs well with the smooth 6-speed automatic transmission.
Ride & Handling
What surprises many reviewers is how composed the Sportage feels on the road. The suspension strikes a balance between comfort and stability, absorbing bumps well without feeling floaty. Steering is predictable and nicely weighted, giving a confident feel at higher speeds.
AWD Capability
Optional all-wheel drive enhances traction in rain, snow, and uneven surfaces. Even with AWD, the Sportage maintains refined road manners and remains fuel-efficient for its class.
Fuel Economy: Competitive and Practical for Daily Use
While not the most fuel-efficient crossover in its category, the 2019 Sportage’s fuel consumption is solid and consistent. City commuters and long-distance drivers both typically report stable mileage figures. The turbo model consumes slightly more fuel, but the performance advantage often outweighs this for drivers who prioritize power.
Safety Features and Ratings
The 2019 Kia Sportage comes well-equipped in the safety department, offering a comprehensive suite of features designed to keep both driver and passengers protected.
Standard Features
- Multiple airbags
- Electronic stability control
- Anti-lock brakes
- Traction control
- Hill-start assist
Available Advanced Driver Assistance Systems
Higher trims include more advanced features such as lane safety technologies, blind-spot monitoring, forward collision systems, and smart braking assistance.
Crash-Test Scores
The Sportage earned excellent ratings from major safety organizations, making it a strong choice for families and safety-focused buyers.
Trim Levels: LX, EX, and SX Turbo
The three trims offer increasing levels of comfort, technology, and performance.
LX
- Ideal for value-oriented buyers
- Solid power, essential features, and good comfort
EX
- Adds more refinement
- Better interior materials
- Improved tech features
- A sweet spot for most buyers
SX Turbo
- Powerful turbo engine
- Premium upgrades
- Sportier driving experience
Each trim offers strong value, and choosing the right one depends on whether you prefer performance, luxury feel, or affordability.
Reliability, Ownership Costs, and Long-Term Value
Kia’s reputation for reliability continued to strengthen during this period, and the 2019 Sportage benefits from that upward trajectory. Most owners report smooth ownership experiences, minimal unexpected maintenance, and solid long-term durability. Combined with Kia’s generous warranty, the Sportage presents a particularly attractive option in the used SUV market.
Resale value remains competitive, especially in markets where the Sportage is a popular model due to its dependability and strong feature list.
Related: 2018 Kia Sportage Overview
Conclusion
The 2019 Kia Sportage stands out for its bold styling, excellent ride comfort, premium-feeling interior, and solid performance options. It blends everyday practicality with a level of refinement that still surprises buyers who expect less from a mainstream compact SUV.
If you’re looking for a used crossover that delivers genuine value, good reliability, a comfortable driving experience, and a long list of features, the 2019 Sportage remains one of the most compelling choices in its segment. Whether you’re a daily commuter, a small family, or someone who wants a stylish yet functional SUV, it’s a model that continues to deliver long after its release.
