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Should you buy one?

Yes, if you want a smart, capable and relaxing family SUV then there’s very little that the Sportage does wrong. Sure, a Skoda Kodiaq doesn’t cost much more at all yet is roomier still, and a Ford Kuga or Seat Ateca both handle with a bit more sparkle. But, very few others can offer the variety of powertrains on offer in the Sportage, so it’s impressive that you really can guarantee that there’s a model to suit you whether you want front- or four-wheel drive, plug-in power, hybrid power or otherwise.

The plug-in hybrid model is admirably efficient, too. We managed to get 80mpg out of the system without really trying. Just remember to keep the battery charged up, and you’ll reap the benefits at the pumps.

What we like

The classy interior finish and smart, user-friendly infotainment is fantastic and really shows how Kia can easily steal sales from premium rivals. More than that, it promises to be a roomy and practical car to live with, offering one of the most spacious rear seat areas and biggest boots in the class. It’s also refined and comfortable. The Plug-in Hybrid’s long EV only range and low emissions mean a Benefit-in-Kind (BIK) tax rate of 7% for the current 2021/22 tax year, rising to 8% for the next three tax years to 2024/25.

What we don’t like

Not much, to be honest. The driving position could drop lower, and handling could be more involving, but we’ll take secure and comfy any day in this class. Just be aware that Kia is no longer the budget brand that it was a while ago. As we said, the Sportage has moved upmarket, but so have the prices. You can find a great family SUV for quite a bit less cash if you’re not fussed about the glitz and tech on offer in the Sportage.

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Further reading:

• The best SUVs to buy
• Parkers full review of the outgoing Kia Sportage