The base Sportage still comes well-equipped, considering its place at the bottom of the trim level range. The Sportage comes standard with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder with 176 horsepower going through the front wheels. A six-speed manual is standard, but a six-speed automatic is an option. All Sportages get 16-inch alloy wheels, a split-folding rear seat, power windows, locks and mirrors, tilt steering wheel, a trip computer and Bluetooth. Also standard are LED running lights, air conditioning and steering wheel controls for the six-speaker audio system that also has USB and AUX inputs. The base Sportage gets a limited selection of exterior color choices and only comes with black cloth upholstery, but if all you want is a small crossover with front wheel drive that's light on fuel, the base Sportage is worth a look.

The EX loads the Sportage up with more technology features and creature comforts to make commutes and long drives more comfortable. The EX adds to the LX, with 18-inch alloy wheels, chrome trim on the exterior, automatic headlamps, fog lights, rear spoiler, roof rails, power driver's seat, backup camera, the UVO system, HD radio, cooled glove box, telescoping steering wheel and dual-zone automatic climate control. The Premium Package adds leather seats, with heat for the front ones, a cooled driver's seat, auto-dimming rearview mirror with garage door opener, cargo cover and power-folding outside mirrors. The Navigation Package adds the touchscreen navigation system and premium audio system.

The LX builds on the base model's long list of equipment and opens up the availability of optional trim and features. Seventeen-inch alloy wheels are standard, as is the six-speed automatic transmission. Buyers also get remote keyless entry to go with the power locks and rear privacy glass. All-wheel drive is an option on the LX. The optional Convenience Package adds Kia's UVO voice recognition system for audio functions, a rear backup camera and rear parking sensors, telescopic steering wheel, roof rails, floor mats, cargo cover, illuminated vanity mirror and a cooled glove box. The Navigation Package includes the Convenience Package, but adds a touchscreen navigation system with SiriusXM traffic and weather and a premium audio system with subwoofer.