Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
About the 2023 Kia Sportage Base
The 2023 Kia Sportage Base is a suv that earns a Carivo score of 7.9/10 — rated Recommended. Its strongest dimension is Safety at 8.2/10. 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. The reliability picture is solid rather than spectacular: 7.2/10, which puts it comfortably above the class median. Safety lands at 8.2/10 — solid, though some rivals offer more advanced driver-assist features as standard. Confirm official results for your trim at nhtsa.gov/ratings.
With 7.9/10 for performance, this is a car tuned for daily driving rather than excitement — perfectly capable on the commute, unremarkable on a back road. At 7.6/10 for technology, the infotainment and driver-assist package does its job without setting benchmarks — check which features cost extra on lower trims.
Priced from $30,060–$38,920, 28 MPG, seating 5, the Kia Sportage Base sits in the mid-market bracket of the suv segment. At 7.5/10 for value, it delivers fair pricing for what's on offer, though the best alternatives in this price range score slightly higher. At 3 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.
Verdict: Nothing about the 2023 Kia Sportage Base will scare a sensible buyer off. It scores consistently across the board, and 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 2023 Kia Sportage Base ranks #293 of 2454 suvs in the Carivo database — better than 88% of the segment. Its 7.9/10 overall score is 0.5 points above the segment average of 7.4/10. Its $30,060 starting price undercuts the segment's median of $36,079 by about 17%.
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 2020 Kia Sportage Base scores 7.8/10 — within striking distance of the 2023's 7.9 — 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.
Strong safety ratings from NHTSA and independent testers
Good overall value; holds its own against pricier alternatives in the segment
Competent performance that satisfies most everyday driving demands
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 — 2023 Kia Sportage Base
Is the 2023 Kia Sportage Base reliable?
We rate the 2023 Kia Sportage Base's reliability 7.2/10 — above the middle of the pack for this class.
Is the 2023 Kia Sportage Base worth buying?
It scores 7.9/10 overall, ranking #293 of 2454 suvs in our database (better than 88% of the segment). A solid choice for most buyers — compare it against the segment leaders before deciding.
How much does the 2023 Kia Sportage Base cost?
The 2023 Kia Sportage Base starts at $30,060 and ranges up to $38,920 across trims (MSRP when new). At 28 MPG, expect roughly $1,875/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
