Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
About the 2023 Kia Sportage SL
With an overall Carivo score of 7.9/10, the 2023 Kia Sportage SL earns a Recommended rating among the suvs we've scored. Its strongest dimension is Value at 9.0/10, while Technology at 7.9/10 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. We rate the Kia Sportage SL's reliability at 8.8/10 — among the strongest in our suv database, reflecting the nameplate's track record and recall history. Safety is a strength too — 8.7/10 by our scoring. As with any car, verify the official ratings for your specific trim at nhtsa.gov/ratings.
Performance lands mid-pack at 7.9/10: enough power and composure for everyday needs, without the dynamics that distinguish the segment's driver-focused options. Technology comes in at 7.9/10 — functional and modern, with wireless connectivity and core ADAS features, though some competitors pack more standard tech at this price point.
Priced from $39,078–$50,596, 28 MPG, seating 5, the Kia Sportage SL sits in the mid-market bracket of the suv segment. The 9.0/10 value score is the headline: relative to what it costs, this suv 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 SL as the dependable pick rather than the exciting one. 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 2023 Kia Sportage SL 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 $39,078 starting price is about 8% above the segment's median of $36,079.
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?
Smart-money pick: the 2020 Kia Sportage SL scores 7.7/10 — within striking distance of the 2023's 7.9 — and starts roughly $3,500 lower. If you don't need the newest model year, that's money better spent on a higher trim or kept in your pocket.
Proven long-term reliability — lower unplanned repair costs than class average
Top-tier safety scores across crash tests and driver-assistance tech
Exceptional value for money — high-quality features at a competitive price point
Competent performance that satisfies most everyday driving demands
Modern, intuitive tech suite with wireless connectivity and up-to-date ADAS
✗ Where it falls short
Few standout weaknesses — review individual sub-scores for nuance
Some competing models offer a higher overall score at a similar price
Common Questions — 2023 Kia Sportage SL
Is the 2023 Kia Sportage SL reliable?
We rate the 2023 Kia Sportage SL's reliability 8.8/10 — one of the stronger records in its class.
Is the 2023 Kia Sportage SL 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 SL cost?
The 2023 Kia Sportage SL starts at $39,078 and ranges up to $50,596 across trims (MSRP when new). At 28 MPG, expect roughly $1,875/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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