Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
About the 2017 Kia Sportage Base
The 2017 Kia Sportage Base is a suv that earns a Carivo score of 7.6/10 — rated Recommended. Its strongest dimension is Value at 8.8/10, while Reliability at 6.7/10 is where it trails the competition most noticeably. It's a solid all-rounder that delivers across most dimensions without obvious deal-breakers.
Reliability and safety are the two dimensions that matter most for long-term ownership costs. At 6.7/10 for reliability, this suv trails its segment. That doesn't rule it out, but go in with eyes open on running costs. On safety, it scores 8.5/10 in our assessment. Always confirm the official crash-test results for your exact trim at nhtsa.gov/ratings.
Few rivals match it for performance: 8.7/10. Expect handling and power delivery that make this one of the more entertaining suvs to actually drive. At 7.7/10 for technology, the infotainment and driver-assist package does its job without setting benchmarks — check which features cost extra on lower trims.
Priced from $24,482–$28,915, 22 MPG, seating 5, the Kia Sportage Base sits in the budget-friendly tier of the suv market. Its value score of 8.8/10 confirms that the price reflects the quality — you're getting a lot for your money here. At 9 years old, resale value, parts availability, and whether a successor model has improved on its weak points are all worth investigating before committing.
Verdict: Nothing about the 2017 Kia Sportage Base will scare a sensible buyer off. Keep an eye on reliability if those matter to you; otherwise it does what a good suv should — quietly and competently.
Carivo scores are our own editorial assessment, informed by NHTSA safety and recall records, EPA fuel-economy figures, and manufacturer-published specifications. Scores are reviewed periodically and updated when new data becomes available. See our full methodology →
How It Ranks Among SUVs
The 2017 Kia Sportage Base ranks #737 of 2454 suvs in the Carivo database — better than 70% of the segment. Its 7.6/10 overall score is 0.2 points above the segment average of 7.4/10. Its $24,482 starting price undercuts the segment's median of $36,079 by about 32%.
Varies widely by driver and state — always quote the exact trim before buying
We only print costs we can compute from sourced data (EPA fuel economy, NHTSA recalls). We don't estimate maintenance or depreciation — anyone who gives you one number for those is guessing.
Which Sportage Base Year Should You Buy?
Across the Sportage Base model years we've scored, the 2017 holds its position — we didn't find an older year that delivers similar scores for meaningfully less money.
Top-tier safety scores across crash tests and driver-assistance tech
Exceptional value for money — high-quality features at a competitive price point
Engaging driving dynamics with class-leading power and handling
Modern, intuitive tech suite with wireless connectivity and up-to-date ADAS
Versatile body style handles daily commuting and weekend adventures equally well
✗ Where it falls short
Reliability scores are mid-pack; some owners report higher-than-expected maintenance needs
Brand resale values vary — check current market data before committing
Common Questions — 2017 Kia Sportage Base
Is the 2017 Kia Sportage Base reliable?
We rate the 2017 Kia Sportage Base's reliability 6.7/10 — below the segment average, so budget for higher maintenance.
Is the 2017 Kia Sportage Base worth buying?
It scores 7.6/10 overall, ranking #737 of 2454 suvs in our database (better than 70% of the segment). A solid choice for most buyers — compare it against the segment leaders before deciding.
How much does the 2017 Kia Sportage Base cost?
The 2017 Kia Sportage Base starts at $24,482 and ranges up to $28,915 across trims (MSRP when new). At 22 MPG, expect roughly $2,386/year in fuel at 15,000 miles/year.
Which Sportage Base years should you avoid?
Based on our year-by-year scoring, the weakest Sportage Base years we've rated are 2015 (7.5/10), 2017 (7.6/10), 2016 (7.6/10) — each at least half a point below the nameplate's best (8.1/10). See the full year table above before deciding.
Owner Essentials — Kia Sportage Base
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More Kia Reviews
Explore the full lineup of Kia models scored by Carivo — ranked by overall score across reliability, safety, value, performance, and technology.
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