The 2014 Kia Sportage has been giving its official price ahead of launch, starting out at $22,450 for the entry-level version with front-wheel drive. Further up the ladder, higher-spec versions and four-wheel drive variants will be priced at $29,250 – all prices include a destination charge of $850.
Coming in at $2,600 more than the outgoing model, the latest Kia Sportage has a lot to prove. However, considering that the base trim for the 2014 model now features the same package as last year’s Sportage LX, it’s pretty easy to see where the extra money goes. And what’s more, take this year’s Sportage LX and you’ll only be looking at a $400 premium on top of the outgoing model’s price, so value for money is still looking solid across the range.
Those opting for the mid-range Sportage EX will find it process from $25,850 before optional extras are added, while the Sportage SX comes in at a slightly loftier $27,750. All trim levels can be upped to all-wheel-drive for an extra payment of $1,500.
This time around, Kia has put together a series of upgrade packages for each of the trims and is keeping its standard menu to an absolute minimum. In fact, in terms of the individual goodies you can add onto any trim of your choice, you’re limited to a panoramic sunroof for $1,500 or a set of custom carpet mats for $115.
Meanwhile, the “Popular Package” for the Sportage XL offers a backup camera, UVO, a second-row armrest with cup holder and roof rails for $1,600 all-in. Buy the $3,900 “Premium Package” for the EX trim and you get plenty of the above features along with leather seats, satellite navigation and plenty more besides.
The same “Premium Package” for the SX comes in at a slightly lower $2,900 and delivers similar goodies.
Under the hood, powertrain options include a 182bhp 2.4-liter engine for the base model, along with an optional 2-liter turbocharged unit that’s good for a full 260bhp.