2021 Kia Sportage Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.
Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- The 2021 Kia Sportage earned a top 5-star overall NHTSA safety rating, indicating strong crash protection.
- While consumer complaints are absent, multiple recalls highlight potential electrical vulnerabilities, specifically concerning fire risks.
- The 2.0L engine paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission delivers an average of 21 MPG combined.
- All-wheel drive is standard on this model, enhancing traction in various conditions.
2021 Kia Sportage
Critical Failure Risk
Recalls address potential electrical shorts in the trailer hitch harness module due to debris and moisture. This can lead to a fire risk, particularly when the vehicle is parked.
Early detection can help you avoid a repair of about $0.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
No primary complaint themes found.
Performance & Efficiency
Reliability
Practicality
The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.
Who This Car Is For
Best for
Budget-conscious shoppers prioritizing safety ratings and practicality.
+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Those who prefer a vehicle with a completely unblemished recall history.
+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2021 Kia Sportage Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2021 Kia Sportage.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Regular
- Seating Capacity
- 5
- Transmission
- Automatic
- Drivetrain
- All-Wheel Drive
- Body Style
- Suv
- EPA Combined MPG
- 21
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Most Common Issues
1. Electrical Fire Risk (Trailer Hitch Harness)
Most reportedUsage data observed
2. Electrical Fire Risk (HECU Module)
Usage data observed
First Service Interval
- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake Inspection - Cabin Air Filter Replacement
Est. shop cost: $100 - $200
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FAQ
Is the 2021 Kia Sportage reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2021 Kia Sportage is 8.5/10. Reliability score is 8.5/10. NHTSA recalls: 8. Owner complaints: 0.
How practical is the 2021 Kia Sportage for daily use?
Practicality score is 3.9/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 21 MPG. Seating capacity is 5.
What is the overall score for the 2021 Kia Sportage?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2021 Kia Sportage is 7.2/10. Overall score is 7.2/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.3/10. Practicality 3.9/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2021 Kia Sportage?
Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake Inspection - Cabin Air Filter Replacement at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $300 - $600. Repair prediction highlight: Trailer Hitch Harness Module (estimated cost Min: $0 (Recall)).
What is the MSRP range for the 2021 Kia Sportage?
Base MSRP is $24,090.
What engine is in the 2021 Kia Sportage?
Engine specs list 4 • 2.0.
What transmission does the 2021 Kia Sportage use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Kia Sportage, transmission is Automatic. The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2021 Kia Sportage?
EPA combined estimate is 21 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2021 Kia Sportage?
14 standard and 1 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.
How many people fit in a 2021 Kia Sportage?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Kia Sportage, seating capacity is 5.
What body style is the 2021 Kia Sportage?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Kia Sportage, body style is suv.
What drivetrain does the 2021 Kia Sportage use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Kia Sportage, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic.
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2021 Kia Sportage?
NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 4/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.
Are there open safety recalls on the 2021 Kia Sportage?
This model year has 8 official safety campaigns listed.