CarGurus expert rating: 3 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.4 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 38.8%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.2 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 3,300
Average Price: Around £17,000

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 (2010-2016), known as the mk3, is a stylish and well-equipped family SUV that looks more expensive than it actually is. Launched in late 2010, it offered modern, sophisticated styling both inside and out, with impressive standard equipment including air-conditioning and electric windows across the range. Available with front-wheel or four-wheel drive, manual or automatic transmissions, and a greatly improved engine range, the Sportage mk3 proved an instant winner with family buyers seeking excellent value. Its extra height gives it a commanding road presence and superior interior space compared to rivals like the Ford Kuga and Nissan Qashqai.

The Sportage mk3 boasts over 560 litres of boot space, impressive rear legroom, and a virtually flat rear floor for comfortable five-up travel. Engine options include 1.6 and 2.0-litre petrols, plus 1.7 and 2.0-litre diesels, all delivering reasonable performance and fuel economy. A 2014 facelift brought suspension, engine, and soundproofing improvements, making later models noticeably more refined. Handling is capable and secure, though steering is light and remote-feeling. Running costs are reasonable, with real-world fuel economy ranging from 35mpg for petrol models to around 50mpg for the 1.7 CRDi diesel. Insurance groups span 14-18, and servicing costs at independent garages are very reasonable. Kia's impressive 100,000-mile/seven-year warranty adds significant peace of mind.

Best for: Family buyers seeking practical, well-equipped SUVs with excellent value, those who prefer the Sportage's styling to rivals, and buyers wanting strong standard equipment and reliability.

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


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the Sportage if: You're seeking a practical, well-equipped family SUV with excellent value, prefer its contemporary styling to rivals, or want strong standard equipment and proven reliability.

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

Competitive Position: The Kia Sportage (2010-2016) remains a compelling choice in the used family SUV market, offering excellent practicality, impressive standard equipment, and outstanding value. Whilst it may not match the Nissan Qashqai for driving refinement or the Honda CR-V for overall polish, its stylish design, spacious interior, and strong reliability record make it an excellent proposition for budget-conscious family buyers. The 2014 facelift models are particularly recommended for their enhanced refinement and superior equipment. It represents a sensible, well-equipped alternative to more expensive rivals.

Read our full Kia Sportage Review

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