So, you're wondering if the 2017 Kia Sportage is a good car? Let's dive right in! As car enthusiasts, we're here to give you the lowdown on whether this compact SUV is worth your hard-earned cash. The Kia Sportage has always been a contender in the crowded compact SUV market, and the 2017 model year brought some significant changes and improvements. When considering a vehicle, several factors come into play, including reliability, performance, comfort, technology, and overall value. We'll break down each of these aspects to help you make an informed decision. The 2017 Kia Sportage marked the beginning of its fourth generation, introducing a more modern design, updated features, and enhanced driving dynamics. Kia aimed to create a vehicle that not only met the needs of everyday drivers but also offered a touch of style and sophistication.

Reliability and Common Issues

When evaluating if the 2017 Kia Sportage is a good car, reliability is paramount. Nobody wants to buy a car that spends more time in the repair shop than on the road. Generally, the 2017 Sportage has a decent reliability record, but like any vehicle, it has its share of potential issues. Let's look closer at the common problems reported by owners. One of the most frequently mentioned issues involves the engine. Some owners have reported problems such as engine knocking, stalling, and even complete engine failure. These issues are more prevalent in the 2.4-liter engine, which is the base engine for most trims. If you're considering buying a 2017 Sportage, it's essential to have the engine thoroughly inspected by a trusted mechanic. Another potential issue to watch out for is related to the transmission. Some owners have experienced rough shifting, hesitation, and even transmission failure. These problems can significantly impact the driving experience and may require costly repairs. It's advisable to check the transmission fluid regularly and address any unusual noises or behavior promptly. The 2017 Sportage also had a few recalls, so it's crucial to check if the specific vehicle you're interested in has had all the necessary recall repairs completed. Recalls can address safety-related issues such as faulty airbags, brake problems, and electrical malfunctions. Addressing these recalls ensures that the vehicle meets safety standards and protects you and your passengers. Despite these potential issues, many owners have reported positive experiences with the reliability of their 2017 Sportage. Regular maintenance, such as oil changes, filter replacements, and tire rotations, can help prevent problems and extend the life of the vehicle. Overall, the 2017 Kia Sportage has average reliability, but it's essential to be aware of the potential issues and take proactive steps to address them.

Performance and Handling

Let’s talk performance – because what good is a car if it doesn't deliver a decent driving experience? The 2017 Kia Sportage offers two engine options: a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine and a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. The base 2.4-liter engine produces around 181 horsepower, which is adequate for daily commuting and general driving. However, if you're looking for more power and quicker acceleration, the turbocharged 2.0-liter engine is the way to go. It cranks out an impressive 240 horsepower, making the Sportage feel much more spirited and responsive. The turbocharged engine is available on the SX Turbo trim, which offers a sportier driving experience. The handling of the 2017 Sportage is generally competent, with precise steering and minimal body roll. It's not the sportiest SUV on the market, but it provides a comfortable and stable ride. The suspension does a good job of absorbing bumps and road imperfections, making it suitable for long drives. The Sportage offers both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations. The all-wheel-drive system provides added traction and stability in slippery conditions, such as snow or rain. It's a valuable feature if you live in an area with inclement weather. Fuel efficiency is another important consideration when evaluating a car's performance. The 2017 Sportage with the 2.4-liter engine achieves an EPA-estimated 23 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway. The turbocharged 2.0-liter engine delivers slightly lower fuel economy, with an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway. These figures are competitive for the compact SUV class. The 2017 Sportage comes standard with a six-speed automatic transmission. The transmission shifts smoothly and efficiently, providing a seamless driving experience. Some critics have noted that the transmission can sometimes be slow to respond, especially when downshifting for passing maneuvers. Overall, the 2017 Kia Sportage offers decent performance and handling for its class. The base engine is adequate for most drivers, but the turbocharged engine provides a more engaging driving experience. The Sportage handles well and offers a comfortable ride, making it a practical choice for daily use.

Interior Comfort and Features

Moving inside, let’s explore the interior comfort and features of the 2017 Kia Sportage. After all, you'll spend a significant amount of time inside the cabin, so it's essential to have a comfortable and well-equipped space. The 2017 Sportage offers a spacious and well-designed interior with comfortable seating for up to five passengers. The front seats provide ample support and adjustability, making them suitable for long drives. The rear seats offer decent legroom and headroom, even for taller adults. The Sportage's interior materials are generally of good quality, with soft-touch surfaces and attractive trim. However, some critics have noted that the base model's interior can feel a bit bland and basic. The higher trims offer more upscale materials and finishes, such as leather upholstery and premium trim accents. The 2017 Sportage comes with a range of standard and available features, depending on the trim level. Standard features include a rearview camera, a touchscreen infotainment system, Bluetooth connectivity, and USB ports. Available features include a panoramic sunroof, a navigation system, leather upholstery, heated seats, and a premium audio system. The infotainment system in the 2017 Sportage is user-friendly and responsive. It features a clear and intuitive interface with large icons and straightforward menus. The system supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone. The Sportage also offers a range of advanced safety features, such as blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. These features enhance safety and provide added peace of mind. Cargo space is another important consideration when evaluating an SUV. The 2017 Sportage offers a generous amount of cargo space, with 30.7 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 60.1 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. This is more than enough space for groceries, luggage, and other gear. The Sportage also features a low cargo floor, making it easy to load and unload items. Overall, the 2017 Kia Sportage offers a comfortable and well-equipped interior with plenty of space for passengers and cargo. The interior materials are generally of good quality, and the available features enhance the driving experience.

Technology and Safety

Technology and safety are critical aspects of any modern vehicle, and the 2017 Kia Sportage doesn't disappoint. This SUV is equipped with a range of tech features designed to enhance the driving experience and keep you connected on the road. The standard infotainment system includes a touchscreen display, Bluetooth connectivity, USB ports, and a rearview camera. Higher trims offer additional features such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone for navigation, music, and communication. The infotainment system is user-friendly and responsive, with intuitive menus and clear graphics. The touchscreen display is easy to see and operate, even in bright sunlight. The 2017 Sportage also offers a range of advanced safety features, such as blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. These features use sensors and cameras to monitor the vehicle's surroundings and alert the driver to potential hazards. The blind-spot monitoring system detects vehicles in your blind spots and warns you before changing lanes. The lane departure warning system alerts you if you start to drift out of your lane without signaling. The automatic emergency braking system can automatically apply the brakes if it detects an imminent collision. In terms of crash-test ratings, the 2017 Kia Sportage performs well. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) gave it an overall safety rating of five stars, the highest possible rating. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) named it a Top Safety Pick+, indicating that it performed well in all crash tests. The 2017 Sportage also comes standard with a range of passive safety features, such as airbags, anti-lock brakes, and stability control. These features help protect you and your passengers in the event of a collision. Overall, the 2017 Kia Sportage offers a good balance of technology and safety features. The infotainment system is user-friendly and responsive, and the advanced safety features provide added peace of mind. The Sportage also performs well in crash tests, making it a safe choice for families and individuals alike.

Overall Value

Considering the overall value is essential when deciding if the 2017 Kia Sportage is a good car. Value encompasses not only the initial purchase price but also factors such as fuel economy, maintenance costs, and resale value. The 2017 Sportage typically has a lower starting price than many of its competitors in the compact SUV class. This makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. However, it's important to consider the total cost of ownership, which includes factors such as fuel, insurance, and maintenance. The fuel economy of the 2017 Sportage is competitive for its class, with the base engine achieving an EPA-estimated 23 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway. The turbocharged engine delivers slightly lower fuel economy, but it provides more power and quicker acceleration. Maintenance costs for the 2017 Sportage are generally reasonable, with routine services such as oil changes and filter replacements being relatively affordable. However, it's essential to be aware of the potential engine and transmission issues mentioned earlier, as these can lead to costly repairs. The resale value of the 2017 Sportage is average for its class. It's not as strong as some of its competitors, such as the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4, but it's still decent. Factors such as the vehicle's condition, mileage, and trim level can affect its resale value. The 2017 Sportage offers a good balance of features and value for its price. It comes standard with a range of features, such as a rearview camera, a touchscreen infotainment system, and Bluetooth connectivity. Higher trims offer additional features such as leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, and advanced safety technologies. Kia also offers a generous warranty on the 2017 Sportage, which can provide added peace of mind. The warranty covers the powertrain for 10 years or 100,000 miles, which is one of the best warranties in the industry. Overall, the 2017 Kia Sportage offers good value for its price. It's an affordable compact SUV with a range of features and a generous warranty. However, it's essential to be aware of the potential reliability issues and factor them into your decision.

Final Verdict: Is the 2017 Kia Sportage a Good Car?

So, is the 2017 Kia Sportage a good car? The answer is nuanced. It has its pros and cons, but overall, it can be a solid choice for the right buyer. If you prioritize value, features, and a long warranty, the 2017 Sportage is worth considering. It offers a comfortable interior, a user-friendly infotainment system, and a range of safety features. However, it's crucial to be aware of the potential engine and transmission issues and to have the vehicle thoroughly inspected before purchasing. If you're looking for a more reliable and refined SUV, you might want to consider alternatives such as the Honda CR-V or Toyota RAV4. But if you're on a budget and willing to take a bit of a risk, the 2017 Sportage can be a good option. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to buy a 2017 Kia Sportage depends on your individual needs and priorities. Consider your budget, driving habits, and desired features, and weigh the pros and cons carefully. And, as always, do your research and get a professional inspection before making a purchase. Happy car hunting, guys!