carivo.co
Independent review & score by Carivo
| Seating Capacity | 5 passengers |
|---|---|
| Body Style | Hybrid |
| Base Price | $33,940–$40,711 |
Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
With an overall Carivo score of 8.1/10, the 2023 Kia Sportage Hybrid earns a Recommended rating among the hybrids we've scored. Its strongest dimension is Value at 8.9/10, 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 8.3/10 in our assessment — above the middle of the pack for this class, though not flawless. Safety is a strength too — 8.6/10 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 comes in at 7.8/10 — functional and modern, with wireless connectivity and core ADAS features, though some competitors pack more standard tech at this price point.
Priced from $33,940–$40,711, 42 MPG, seating 5, the Kia Sportage Hybrid sits in the mid-market bracket of the hybrid segment. The 8.9/10 value score is the headline: relative to what it costs, this hybrid delivers more than most of the class. 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.
Bottom line: Think of the 2023 Kia Sportage Hybrid 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 →
The 2023 Kia Sportage Hybrid ranks #67 of 135 hybrids in the Carivo database — better than 51% of the segment. Its 8.1/10 overall score is 0.1 points below the segment average of 8.2/10. Its $33,940 starting price is about 7% above the segment's median of $31,584.
Rankings are recalculated as new vehicles and scores are added. See the full Hybrid ranking → · Best Hybrids under $35k →
Across the Sportage Hybrid model years we've scored, the 2023 holds its position — we didn't find an older year that delivers similar scores for meaningfully less money.
| Year | Score | Starting price (MSRP when new) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 8.1/10 | $36,039 | Read review → |
| 2025 | 8.1/10 | $36,039 | Read review → |
| 2024 | 8.1/10 | $34,990 | Read review → |
| 2023 (this review) | 8.1/10 | $33,940 |
We rate the 2023 Kia Sportage Hybrid's reliability 8.3/10 — one of the stronger records in its class.
It scores 8.1/10 overall, ranking #67 of 135 hybrids in our database (better than 51% of the segment). A solid choice for most buyers — compare it against the segment leaders before deciding.
The 2023 Kia Sportage Hybrid starts at $33,940 and ranges up to $40,711 across trims (MSRP when new). At 42 MPG, expect roughly $1,250/year in fuel at 15,000 miles/year.
Other hybrids at a similar price point, ranked by Carivo score.
Explore the full lineup of Kia models scored by Carivo — ranked by overall score across reliability, safety, value, performance, and technology.
