Used Kia Sportage for sale nearDarlington

CarGurus expert rating: 3 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.4 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 34.2%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.2 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 3,000
Average Price: Around £16,000

Kia Sportage (2010-2016) Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Practical interior	Some rivals are more polished to drive
Still looks good, even at more than a decade old	Some owners found problems with corrosion on alloy wheels
Big boot	2.0-litre models with four-wheel drive are thirsty

Quick Summary

The Kia Sportage mk3 (2010-2016) is a stylish and well-equipped family SUV that looks considerably more expensive than it actually is. Launched in late 2010, it immediately impressed with its modern, sophisticated styling, generous standard equipment, and competitive pricing. Compared with its predecessor, the mk3 offered greatly improved engines, a choice of front-wheel or four-wheel drive, and manual or automatic transmissions. With over 560 litres of boot space and a virtually flat rear floor, it provides excellent practicality for families. The extra height gives occupants a commanding view of the road and makes the car appear larger than its Vauxhall Astra-equivalent length suggests.

Engine options include a 133bhp 1.6 GDi petrol, a 2.0-litre petrol with 159bhp, and diesel choices ranging from a 1.7 CRDi with 114bhp to a 2.0 CRDi available with 134bhp or 181bhp. All engines deliver reasonable performance and moderate fuel economy, though larger engines with four-wheel drive are less frugal. A 2014 facelift brought suspension, engine, and soundproofing improvements that enhanced refinement significantly. Handling is capable and secure, though steering is light and remote-feeling. The Sportage mk3 comes with Kia's impressive 100,000-mile/seven-year warranty and boasts a strong reliability record. Even base models include air-conditioning, cruise control, and rain-sensing wipers, with higher trims offering leather, panoramic sunroofs, and heated seats.

Best for: Family buyers seeking value, practicality, and stylish looks; those considering rivals like the Ford Kuga, Nissan Qashqai, or Mazda CX-5; buyers who prefer post-2012 facelifted models for enhanced refinement.

Not ideal for: Drivers prioritising the most polished driving dynamics; those concerned about potential alloy wheel corrosion; buyers of 2.0-litre four-wheel drive models seeking excellent fuel economy.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the Sportage if: You're seeking a practical, stylish family SUV with excellent value; you want generous standard equipment and strong reliability; or you prefer the Sportage's looks to rivals like the Qashqai or Kuga.

Consider alternatives if: You prioritise the most polished driving dynamics, are concerned about alloy wheel corrosion, or require maximum fuel economy with larger engines and four-wheel drive.

Competitive Position: The Kia Sportage mk3 (2010-2016) is a compelling choice in the used family SUV market, offering excellent practicality, stylish design, and strong value. Whilst it may not drive quite as polished as the Nissan Qashqai or Ford Kuga, it compensates with superior standard equipment, a spacious interior, and a reliability record that rivals most competitors. The Honda CR-V offers slightly higher user ratings, but the Sportage remains an outstanding proposition for budget-conscious family buyers who value style and practicality. Post-2012 facelifted models are particularly recommended for enhanced refinement and comfort.

Read our full Kia Sportage Review

*The Overall CarGurus rating: that informs these recommendations is based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from September 2026, CarGurus expert reviews, and CarGurus user reviews.