Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
About the 2021 Kia Sportage Base
With an overall Carivo score of 7.8/10, the 2021 Kia Sportage Base earns a Recommended rating among the suvs we've scored. Its strongest dimension is Safety at 8.5/10, while Performance at 6.8/10 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. Reliability comes in at 8.0/10 in our assessment — above the middle of the pack for this class, though not flawless. Safety is a strength too — 8.5/10 by our scoring. As with any car, verify the official ratings for your specific trim at nhtsa.gov/ratings.
Performance at 6.8/10 is a genuine liability and a score that should factor heavily into any buying decision. The powertrain and chassis dynamics trail class rivals by a meaningful margin — don't overlook it. Technology scores 8.0/10 — one of the stronger tech packages in the segment. Expect a responsive infotainment system, broad smartphone integration, and a solid suite of driver-assistance features.
Priced from $28,200–$34,031, 26 MPG, seating 5, the Kia Sportage Base sits in the mid-market bracket of the suv segment. Value lands at 7.3/10 — you get what you pay for, no more and no less, with a few rivals offering slightly better per-dollar returns. At 5 years old, it's worth checking whether a newer generation or refresh has addressed any weaker dimensions — compare it to the current model year before buying.
Bottom line: Think of the 2021 Kia Sportage Base as the dependable pick rather than the exciting one. Its softer scores in performance are the only real asterisks. Shoppers who value predictability over headlines will be well served.
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 2021 Kia Sportage Base ranks #428 of 2454 suvs in the Carivo database — better than 83% of the segment. Its 7.8/10 overall score is 0.4 points above the segment average of 7.4/10. Its $28,200 starting price undercuts the segment's median of $36,079 by about 22%.
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?
Smart-money pick: the 2018 Kia Sportage Base scores 7.7/10 — within striking distance of the 2021's 7.8 — and starts roughly $3,000 lower. If you don't need the newest model year, that's money better spent on a higher trim or kept in your pocket.
Above-average reliability record with solid owner satisfaction data
Top-tier safety scores across crash tests and driver-assistance tech
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
Driving dynamics are adequate but uninspiring; not the choice for enthusiast drivers
Brand resale values vary — check current market data before committing
Common Questions — 2021 Kia Sportage Base
Is the 2021 Kia Sportage Base reliable?
We rate the 2021 Kia Sportage Base's reliability 8.0/10 — one of the stronger records in its class.
Is the 2021 Kia Sportage Base worth buying?
It scores 7.8/10 overall, ranking #428 of 2454 suvs in our database (better than 83% of the segment). A solid choice for most buyers — compare it against the segment leaders before deciding.
How much does the 2021 Kia Sportage Base cost?
The 2021 Kia Sportage Base starts at $28,200 and ranges up to $34,031 across trims (MSRP when new). At 26 MPG, expect roughly $2,019/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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Similar SUV to Consider
Other suvs at a similar price point, ranked by Carivo score.
Representative photo — may show another model year
