2024 Kia Sportage Review: Is The SE Trim Worth It?

by Alex Braham 51 views

Alright, car enthusiasts! Let's dive deep into the 2024 Kia Sportage, specifically focusing on the SE trim. If you're in the market for a compact SUV that blends style, practicality, and value, the Sportage should definitely be on your radar. But is the SE trim the sweet spot in the lineup? Let’s break it down.

Overview of the 2024 Kia Sportage

First off, the Kia Sportage has been completely redesigned, and the 2024 model year continues to impress with its bold exterior, tech-loaded interior, and overall improved driving experience. The Sportage aims to compete with top contenders like the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and Mazda CX-5. What sets the Sportage apart is its daring design language and the impressive array of features you get for the price. Kia has really upped its game in recent years, and the Sportage is a prime example of that.

Engine and Performance: The standard engine across most trims, including the SE, is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder that produces 187 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque. While it's not the most thrilling engine, it provides adequate power for daily driving. You can expect a smooth and composed ride, especially if you're mainly using it for commuting and running errands around town. The engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, which shifts smoothly and efficiently. For those looking for more oomph, there are hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions available, but we're focusing on the standard gasoline model today.

Fuel Economy: Fuel efficiency is always a concern, and the Sportage does reasonably well in this area. The front-wheel-drive SE trim gets an EPA-estimated 28 mpg combined (25 mpg city, 32 mpg highway). If you opt for the all-wheel-drive version, those numbers drop slightly to 25 mpg combined (23 mpg city, 28 mpg highway). These figures are competitive within the compact SUV segment, making it a practical choice for budget-conscious buyers.

Interior and Technology: Stepping inside the 2024 Sportage, you'll immediately notice the modern and well-designed cabin. The SE trim offers a comfortable and spacious interior with plenty of room for both front and rear passengers. The seats are supportive, making long drives more enjoyable. In terms of technology, the SE comes standard with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system that includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. This is a huge plus, as you can seamlessly integrate your smartphone without the hassle of cords. Other standard features include a rearview camera, lane keeping assist, and forward collision warning.

Why the SE Trim Stands Out

Okay, so why should you specifically consider the SE trim? It's all about the balance of features and value. The SE builds upon the base LX trim by adding several desirable upgrades without significantly increasing the price. Here’s a closer look at what makes the SE trim special:

Key Upgrades:

  • Upgraded Upholstery: The SE trim typically comes with upgraded cloth upholstery that feels more premium than the base model. This small touch makes the interior feel more upscale and comfortable.
  • Driver Convenience Features: One of the most significant additions is the inclusion of features like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. These safety features are incredibly useful in everyday driving situations and provide an extra layer of protection.
  • Exterior Enhancements: The SE often includes alloy wheels, which not only look better than the standard steel wheels but also improve the overall aesthetic appeal of the vehicle.

Value Proposition:

The SE trim is often considered the sweet spot in the Sportage lineup because it offers a significant step up in features for a relatively small increase in price. You get essential safety technologies, improved comfort, and a more stylish exterior without breaking the bank. For many buyers, this represents the best balance of needs and budget.

Real-World Driving Experience

How does the 2024 Kia Sportage SE perform in the real world? Let's talk about the driving dynamics, comfort, and overall usability.

Driving Dynamics: The Sportage offers a composed and comfortable ride, making it well-suited for daily commuting and long road trips. The steering is responsive, and the suspension does a good job of absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road. While it's not a sporty SUV, it handles confidently in most driving situations. The 2.5-liter engine provides adequate power for merging onto highways and navigating city streets. However, if you frequently drive in hilly areas or need extra power for towing, you might consider the hybrid or plug-in hybrid versions.

Comfort and Ergonomics: Inside the cabin, the Sportage shines with its comfortable seats and well-designed layout. The controls are easy to reach and intuitive to use, and the infotainment system is user-friendly. The SE trim's upgraded upholstery adds a touch of luxury, making the interior feel more inviting. The spaciousness of the cabin is also a major plus, with plenty of headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers. This makes the Sportage a great choice for families or anyone who frequently travels with passengers.

Usability: The Sportage is designed with practicality in mind. The rear cargo area offers ample space for groceries, luggage, or sports equipment. The rear seats can be easily folded down to create even more room, making it versatile for hauling larger items. The standard safety features, such as lane keeping assist and forward collision warning, add an extra layer of confidence and peace of mind.

Potential Drawbacks

No car is perfect, and the 2024 Kia Sportage SE does have a few potential drawbacks that are worth considering:

  • Engine Performance: As mentioned earlier, the 2.5-liter engine is adequate but not particularly exciting. Some drivers may find it lacking in power, especially when fully loaded with passengers and cargo.
  • Infotainment System: While the 8-inch touchscreen is functional, it's smaller than the 12.3-inch screen found in higher trims. If you're a tech enthusiast, you might miss the larger display and additional features offered in the more expensive models.
  • Road Noise: Some reviewers have noted that the Sportage can be a bit noisy on the highway, with road and wind noise becoming noticeable at higher speeds. This is a common issue in this class of vehicle, but it's something to be aware of.

Alternatives to the Kia Sportage

If the Kia Sportage isn't quite the right fit for you, there are several other excellent compact SUVs to consider:

  • Honda CR-V: The CR-V is known for its reliability, spacious interior, and excellent fuel economy. It's a top pick in the segment and offers a refined driving experience.
  • Toyota RAV4: The RAV4 is another popular choice, with a reputation for dependability and a wide range of available trims and configurations, including hybrid models.
  • Mazda CX-5: The CX-5 stands out for its sporty handling and upscale interior. It's a great option if you prioritize driving dynamics and a premium feel.
  • Hyundai Tucson: The Tucson shares many components with the Sportage but offers a slightly different design and feature set. It's worth considering if you like the Sportage but want to explore other options.

Final Verdict: Is the 2024 Kia Sportage SE Worth It?

So, after taking a comprehensive look at the 2024 Kia Sportage SE, is it worth your money? In most cases, the answer is a resounding yes. The SE trim offers an excellent balance of features, value, and practicality. You get essential safety technologies, a comfortable interior, and a stylish exterior, all at a reasonable price point. While the engine performance may not be the most thrilling, it's adequate for daily driving needs.

Who Should Buy the Kia Sportage SE?

  • Budget-conscious buyers: The SE trim offers a lot of value for the money, making it an attractive option for those looking to maximize their budget.
  • Families: With its spacious interior and standard safety features, the Sportage SE is a great choice for families.
  • Commuters: The comfortable ride and good fuel economy make it well-suited for daily commuting.

Who Might Want to Consider Other Options?

  • Performance enthusiasts: If you prioritize sporty handling and powerful acceleration, you might want to consider the Mazda CX-5 or explore the hybrid or plug-in hybrid versions of the Sportage.
  • Tech aficionados: If you want the latest and greatest technology features, you might want to upgrade to a higher trim level with a larger touchscreen and more advanced options.

In conclusion, the 2024 Kia Sportage SE is a well-rounded and compelling compact SUV that offers a lot to like. It's definitely worth considering if you're in the market for a vehicle in this segment. Happy car hunting, folks!