If you’ve been researching compact SUVs, chances are the 2016 Kia Sportage has popped up on your radar. This model year was the final chapter of the third-generation Sportage and came with several improvements that made it more competitive in the crowded crossover market. New for 2016, Kia introduced standard leather seating and a Smart Key with push-button start on the EX trim, along with a reshuffling of option packages designed to give buyers more value at each trim level.
In this complete 2016 Sportage overview, you’ll find everything you need to know—performance specs, trim comparisons, interior features, real-world driving impressions, reliability ratings, ownership costs, safety results, and a detailed buyer’s guide. Whether you’re planning to buy a used Sportage or comparing it to rivals like the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Mazda CX-5, or Ford Escape, this expert review breaks it all down in a friendly and easy-to-understand format.
Let’s dive into what makes the 2016 Sportage a practical, stylish, and value-packed option in today’s used SUV market.
2016 Sportage At a Glance
Quick Specs Table
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Starting MSRP (New) | $22,600 (LX) – $30,900 (SX AWD) |
| Body Style | 5-door compact crossover SUV |
| Seats | 5 passengers |
| Engines | 2.4L I4 / 2.0L Turbo I4 |
| Fuel Economy | 21/28 mpg (2.4L FWD), 20/23 mpg (2.0T AWD) |
| Powertrain Warranty | 10-year/100,000-mile |
| Country of Assembly | South Korea |
| Competitors | Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Mazda CX-5, Ford Escape |
This quick summary gives a fast snapshot of why the Sportage became such a popular compact SUV—strong warranty coverage, strong turbo performance on upper trims, and solid value for the price.
What’s New for 2016?
While the 2016 Sportage didn’t receive a full redesign, Kia made a series of upgrades that matter to buyers:
Key 2016 updates:
- Leather seating standard on EX trim
- Smart Key with push-button start standard on EX
- LX Popular Package upgraded with rear camera and auto headlights
- Feature re-bundling for better value on EX Premium Package
- Minor equipment reshuffles to simplify trim decisions
Value Impact
The most important update is the new standard leather interior on EX, which previously required an extra package. This small but meaningful improvement makes the EX trim feel more premium without jumping to the SX.
For shoppers looking at used 2016 models, these upgrades allow you to get more features at lower prices—especially compared to the nearly identical 2015 model.
Complete Trim Level Breakdown
2016 Sportage LX – Base Trim
Starting Price (New):
- $22,600 (FWD)
- $24,100 (AWD)
Standard Features
- 2.4L GDI 182-hp engine
- 6-speed automatic transmission
- 17-inch alloy wheels
- Bluetooth with voice recognition
- SiriusXM radio (3-month trial)
- Rear privacy glass
- Tilt/telescopic steering wheel
- 60/40 split-folding rear seat
- Air conditioning
LX Popular Package ($1,500)
- Rear camera display (new for 2016)
- Auto on/off headlights (new for 2016)
- Roof rails & rear spoiler
- Trip computer
- Illuminated sun visors
- Rear-seat center armrest
Who Should Buy the LX?
The LX trim is perfect for budget-conscious buyers who want an affordable, reliable compact SUV without giving up modern essentials.
2016 Sportage EX – Best Value Trim
Starting Price (New):
- $25,600 (FWD)
- $27,100 (AWD)
Major 2016 Upgrades
- Standard leather seats
- Smart Key with push-button start
- Heated front seats
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
- 18-inch alloy wheels
- LED turn-signal indicators
- Chrome accents
- High-performance dampers
- 8-way power driver’s seat
EX Premium Package ($3,500)
Includes:
- Infinity Premium Audio
- Fog lights
- Heated mirrors w/ turn signals
- Cooled glove box
- Panoramic sunroof
- Navigation (7-inch touchscreen)
- Ventilated front seats
- SiriusXM Traffic
- UVO eServices
Who Should Buy the EX?
This trim hits the sweet spot of price, comfort, and features. For most used SUV shoppers, the EX (especially with Premium Package) is the best-value option.
2016 Sportage SX – Turbo Performance Trim
Starting Price (New):
- $29,900 (FWD)
- $31,400 (AWD)
Exclusive SX Features
- 2.0L Turbo GDI engine (260 hp / 269 lb-ft)
- Paddle shifters
- Sport-tuned suspension
- LED DRLs & LED taillights
- Dual chrome exhaust tips
- Unique sport grille
- Aluminum door sills
- All EX Premium Package features included
Who Should Buy the SX?
Ideal for drivers who want sporty acceleration, highway confidence, and a fully-loaded SUV.
Engine Performance & Specifications
2.4L GDI Engine (LX & EX)
- 182 hp @ 6,000 rpm
- 177 lb-ft torque @ 4,000 rpm
- 0–60 mph: ~9.5 seconds
- Fuel Economy:
- FWD: 21/28 mpg
- AWD: 21/26 mpg
Real-World Driving
The 2.4L engine is smooth, quiet, and efficient. It’s not a performance engine, but for daily commuting, it feels perfectly adequate. Highway passing requires some planning, but around town it feels peppy enough.
2.0L Turbo GDI Engine (SX Only)
- 260 hp @ 6,000 rpm
- 269 lb-ft @ 1,850 rpm
- 0–60 mph: ~7.3 seconds
- Fuel Economy:
- FWD: 20/26 mpg
- AWD: 20/23 mpg
Driving Impressions
The turbo Sportage feels significantly quicker, with strong low-end torque and excellent passing power. Turbo lag is minimal, but premium fuel is recommended for best output and longevity.
Transmission & Drivetrain
- 6-speed Sportmatic automatic
- Smooth upshifts
- Manual mode for driver control
- AWD availability across all trims
- Towing capacity: 2,000 lbs
Interior Design & Comfort
Cabin Quality
The 2016 Sportage interior feels solid and upscale for its segment. While some hard plastics remain, the overall layout is ergonomic and driver-friendly. Noise insulation is better than average, providing a calm cabin at highway speeds.
Seating & Space
- Supportive front seats
- Taller driving position
- Rear seat 38.2 inches legroom
- Reclining second row
- Great for adults on long trips
Cargo Capacity
- 26.1 cubic feet (behind seats)
- 54.6 cubic feet (max)
While the cargo area is functional, it’s smaller than CR-V and RAV4. Still, it handles groceries, luggage, strollers, and weekend gear with ease.
Technology & Infotainment Overview
UVO System (EX Premium & SX)
- 7-inch touchscreen
- Clear menu system
- Responsive interface
- Bluetooth audio & calls
- No Apple CarPlay/Android Auto (not yet available in 2016)
UVO eServices
- Diagnostics monitoring
- Parking locator
- Stolen vehicle tracking
- Geofencing for teen drivers
- Maintenance reminders
Navigation System
- Easy-to-read maps
- Accurate routing
- SiriusXM Traffic integration
Audio Systems
- Base 6-speaker audio: decent clarity
- Infinity Premium (EX Premium & SX):
- 8 speakers + subwoofer
- 315-watt amplifier
- Much fuller sound
Safety Features & Ratings
Standard Safety Equipment
- 6 airbags
- ABS + ESC
- Traction control
- Hill-start assist
- Tire pressure monitoring
- Brake assist
Optional Safety Tech
The 2016 Sportage does not offer:
- Blind spot monitoring
- Rear cross-traffic alert
- Lane departure warning
This is a competitive drawback for tech-heavy buyers.
Crash Test Ratings
- NHTSA: 5-Star Overall Rating
- IIHS: Good scores in key categories
- Moderate overlap rating acceptable
Overall, a safe and well-built compact SUV.
Driving Dynamics & Ride Quality
The Sportage offers a balanced combination of comfort and agility:
- Light steering that tightens at higher speeds
- Confident around corners
- Stable highway ride
- Smoother than many budget compact SUVs
- Turbo SX model feels genuinely sporty
Fuel Economy & Real-World MPG
EPA ratings vary depending on engine and drivetrain:
2.4L Engine:
- 21 city / 28 highway (FWD)
2.0 Turbo Engine:
- 20 city / 23–26 highway
Fuel Tank: 16.4 gallons
Driving range: ~350–420 miles per tank depending on engine and driving style.
Compared to rivals, fuel economy is slightly lower—but acceptable given the stronger available turbo engine.
Ownership Costs & Reliability
Warranty Coverage
Kia’s warranty is a huge selling point:
- 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain
- 5-year/60,000-mile basic
- 5-year/100,000-mile corrosion
- 5-year roadside assistance
Reliability & Common Issues
The 2016 Sportage is generally reliable, but buyers should note:
Common Issues Reported
- Minor electrical issues
- Occasional turbo wastegate noise on SX
- AC pressure sensor replacements
- Normal wear items (brakes, bushings)
The 2.4L engine has a strong durability record. Turbo models require more careful maintenance.
Maintenance & Running Costs
Expected yearly maintenance: $400–$500
Typical service costs:
- Oil changes: $60–$90
- Brakes: $250–$320 per axle
- Tires: $500–$700 per set
- Insurance: Slightly below segment average
Resale Value
Depreciation is moderate, but the Sportage holds value well due to warranty coverage and reliability.
Competitive Comparison
Sportage vs Honda CR-V
- CR-V has more cargo space
- Sportage has more features for the price
- CR-V slightly more fuel-efficient
Sportage vs Toyota RAV4
- RAV4 has higher resale
- Sportage offers more style and features
- RAV4 wins on long-term durability
Sportage vs Mazda CX-5
- CX-5 has sportier handling
- Sportage has more available tech
- CX-5 has better MPG
Sportage vs Ford Escape
- Sportage offers a better warranty
- Escape has stronger infotainment options
Pros & Cons
Pros
Excellent warranty coverage
Strong turbo engine option
Standard leather on EX
Stylish exterior design
Comfortable ride
Good value for money
Cons
No CarPlay/Android Auto
Less cargo room than competitors
Turbo requires premium fuel
Missing modern driver-assistance features
Who Should Buy the 2016 Sportage?
Ideal For:
- First-time SUV buyers
- Shoppers seeking reliability
- Buyers who want premium features without a premium price
- Families of 3–4
- Commuters who value comfort
Not Ideal For:
- Those needing maximum cargo space
- Tech-focused buyers
- Drivers who prefer top-tier MPG ratings
Buying Advice & Recommendations
Best Value Trim:
EX with Premium Package
It delivers the best mix of technology, comfort, and price.
Negotiation Tips:
- CPO models offer extended warranty benefits
- Lower-mileage EX Premium models provide the best long-term value
- Inspect turbo SX models carefully (owner maintenance matters)
Used Market Price Guide (2025):
- LX: $10,000–$13,000
- EX: $12,500–$15,500
- SX: $15,000–$18,000
Related: 2015 Kia Sportage Overview: Award-Winning Compact SUV Worth Buying?
Conclusion
The 2016 Kia Sportage remains one of the most overlooked yet high-value compact SUVs in the used market. With strong build quality, impressive warranty coverage, a feature-rich interior, and the availability of a powerful turbo engine, it appeals to buyers wanting something stylish and well-equipped without overspending. While it lacks some modern tech features, its comfort, reliability, and overall value make it a smart purchase.
Overall Rating: ⭐ 4.2 / 5
Best Trim Recommendation: EX with Premium Package
Bottom Line: A reliable, stylish, and feature-packed SUV that still holds its value in 2025.
