Kia Sportage Breaks U.S. Sales Record in 2024; 2026 Model Unveiled with Competitive Pricing Amid Tariffs
Kia's Sportage set a U.S. sales record in 2024 with 51,025 units sold. The 2026 model, unveiled with pricing details, starts at $28,690 despite tariff pressures. It offers six trims, all powered by a 2.5-liter engine, and features like dual panoramic displays and smart cruise control. The model is manufactured in Georgia, with only 20% of parts sourced from the U.S. or Canada. Kia maintains competitive pricing amid rising costs, positioning the Sportage as a value leader in the compact SUV market, with the 2026 model expected in dealerships by mid-2025.
Record-Breaking Sales Performance in 2024
Kia America’s sales trajectory has been on a consistent upswing, and the Sportage has played a pivotal role in that growth. In April 2025 alone, Kia sold 16,178 Sportage units in the U.S., marking an 18% increase from the 13,739 units sold in April 2024. This surge contributed to the Sportage setting a new all-time annual sales record in 2024, with 51,025 units sold across the country.
The April 2025 performance also helped Kia America achieve its highest-ever April sales total of 74,805 units, a 14% year-over-year increase. This marked the seventh consecutive month of record-breaking sales for the automaker, with retail sales at Kia dealerships rising 24% over the same period in 2024. The Sportage, alongside models like the Telluride and Carnival, has been instrumental in sustaining this growth streak.
2026 Kia Sportage: Pricing and Trim Levels
Kia has officially released the pricing for the 2026 Sportage, which will be available in six trim levels. The base LX trim starts at $28,690, reflecting a modest $1,300 increase from the 2025 model year’s $27,390 MSRP. This restrained price hike is notable given the broader industry trend of rising vehicle prices due to global supply chain issues and tariffs.
The full pricing breakdown for the 2026 Sportage is as follows:
- LX (FWD): $28,690
- EX (FWD): $30,490
- SX (FWD): $34,290
- SX-Prestige (FWD): $36,290
- X-Line (AWD): $32,990
- X-Pro Prestige (AWD): $39,590
All trims are powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 187 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. While the EPA has not yet released fuel economy estimates for the 2026 model, the 2025 version achieved 25 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway.
Standard Features and Technology
The 2026 Sportage LX comes well-equipped with a suite of standard features that are typically reserved for higher-end models. These include:
- 12.3-inch dual panoramic displays
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Front and rear parking sensors
- Leather-wrapped steering wheel
- Smart cruise control with stop-and-go functionality
These features enhance the value proposition of the base model, making it a strong contender in the compact SUV market, especially for budget-conscious buyers.
Higher trims offer additional amenities. For example, the SX-Prestige and X-Pro Prestige trims include premium upgrades such as:
- Harman Kardon premium audio system
- Surround view monitor
- Highway Driving Assist (HDA)
- Navigation Smart Cruise Control (NSCC)
- Power folding outside mirrors
- LED front fog lights
- 12.3-inch TFT supervision cluster
Optional packages are also available, including a Technology Package ($800), Panoramic Sunroof Package ($1,000), and Premium Package ($1,500), depending on the trim level.
Color Options and Customization
The 2026 Sportage LX is available in seven exterior colors, two of which—Glacial White Pearl and Snow White Pearl—carry an additional $495 charge. The full list includes:
- Ebony Black
- Fusion Black
- Gravity Gray
- Panthera Metal
- Steel Gray
- Glacial White Pearl ($495)
- Snow White Pearl ($495)
Kia also offers accessories such as X-Line cross bars ($360) and side step bars ($690), allowing buyers to further personalize their vehicles. A fully loaded X-Pro Prestige with accessories can exceed $40,000.
Manufacturing and Tariff Considerations
Despite the global automotive industry facing increased tariffs and supply chain disruptions, Kia has managed to keep the Sportage’s pricing relatively stable. The 2026 model is manufactured at Kia’s plant in West Point, Georgia. However, only about 20% of the vehicle’s parts are sourced from the U.S. or Canada, which makes the model susceptible to international trade policies.
Even so, Kia has maintained affordability across the Sportage lineup. The restrained price increase for the LX trim—just $1,300 over the previous model year—is in line with typical year-over-year adjustments and significantly lower than the price hikes seen from some competitors.
Market Position and Outlook
While the 2026 Sportage may be underpowered compared to rivals like the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V, it continues to stand out for its value. The combination of advanced standard features, competitive pricing, and a wide range of trims makes it an attractive option for a broad spectrum of buyers.
With the 2026 model expected to arrive in dealerships by mid-2025, Kia is well-positioned to sustain its sales momentum. The Sportage’s strong performance in 2024 and its continued affordability amid economic headwinds suggest that it will remain a key player in the compact SUV segment.
