Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
About the 2017 Kia Sportage SL
With an overall Carivo score of 7.6/10, the 2017 Kia Sportage SL earns a Recommended rating among the suvs we've scored. Its strongest dimension is Value at 8.4/10, while Safety at 6.6/10 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 7.6/10 in our assessment — above the middle of the pack for this class, though not flawless. Safety is a notable gap at 6.6/10 in our scoring — below what the best in segment deliver. Check the official NHTSA ratings for the trim you're considering before deciding.
Performance at 6.9/10 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 7.6/10 — functional and modern, with wireless connectivity and core ADAS features, though some competitors pack more standard tech at this price point.
Priced from $31,826–$37,589, 22 MPG, seating 5, the Kia Sportage SL sits in the mid-market bracket of the suv segment. The 8.4/10 value score is the headline: relative to what it costs, this suv delivers more than most of the class. 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.
Bottom line: Think of the 2017 Kia Sportage SL as the dependable pick rather than the exciting one. Its softer scores in performance and safety 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 2017 Kia Sportage SL 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 $31,826 starting price undercuts the segment's median of $36,079 by about 12%.
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 SL Year Should You Buy?
Across the Sportage SL 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.
Above-average reliability record with solid owner satisfaction data
Good overall value; holds its own against pricier alternatives in the segment
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 — 2017 Kia Sportage SL
Is the 2017 Kia Sportage SL reliable?
We rate the 2017 Kia Sportage SL's reliability 7.6/10 — above the middle of the pack for this class.
Is the 2017 Kia Sportage SL 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 SL cost?
The 2017 Kia Sportage SL starts at $31,826 and ranges up to $37,589 across trims (MSRP when new). At 22 MPG, expect roughly $2,386/year in fuel at 15,000 miles/year.
Which Sportage SL years should you avoid?
Based on our year-by-year scoring, the weakest Sportage SL years we've rated are 2016 (7.5/10), 2015 (7.5/10), 2018 (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 SL
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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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