Kia Sportage models and trim levels explained

It's always been spacious, well made and sensibly priced. Plus, recent models bring much sharper styling into the mix too. And all versions are backed by Kia's seven-year factory warranty.

We'll walk you through the current Sportage range and explain how the car's evolved over time. Once you're up to speed, check out the savings on nearly new and used Kia Sportage cars at Motorpoint.

Kia Sportage models explained

The Sportage has been on sale more than 30 years, spanning five separate generations and is now Kia's overall best-selling model. Early versions were fairly cheap and basic compared to contemporary rivals. Each successive generation has brought the Sportage further upmarket, adding extra quality and features – plus a healthy bump in sales.

In the UK, all versions have been five-seat, five-door SUVs with a hatchback-style bootlid. For continental Europe, the first-generation Sportage was available as a three-door convertible, while certain generations have been offered in other markets with a long wheelbase and a larger cargo area.

The family SUV segment is packed with rivals from pretty much every other mainstream brand. Sportage rivals include:

• Ford Kuga
• Nissan Qashqai
• Hyundai Tucson
• Volkswagen Tiguan
• Vauxhall Grandland
• Skoda Karoq
• Citroen C5 Aircross
• Mazda CX-5
• MG HS
• Peugeot 3008
• Renault Austral
• SEAT Ateca

Kia Sportage trim levels

Current Kia Sportage trim levels

• Pure – well-equipped entry-level model with alloy wheels, climate control, cruise control, all-round parking sensors, and an infotainment system with smartphone connectivity
• GT-Line – adds larger wheels and a sporty body kit plus heated front seats, a heated steering wheel and faux-leather upholstery
• GT-Line S – range-topper with electrically adjustable cooled front seats, heated rear seats, a powered bootlid, Harman Kardon stereo and a panoramic sunroof

Kia Sportage 2021-2025 trim levels

• 2 – well-equipped trim with alloy wheels, heated front and rear seats, rear parking sensors, cruise control, climate control, lane-keep assist and a reversing camera
• 3 – mid-range trim adding all-round parking sensors and part-leather upholstery
• 4 – range topper with lots of extra luxury features
• GT-Line and GT-Line S – adds similar sporty upgrades as current model with 'S' version adding extra equipment

Kia Sportage generations

Fifth generation – 2021-present

• The fifth-generation Sportage features intricate styling details inspired by nature
• Model code – NQ5
• Facelift version arrived in the UK at the end of 2025
• The dashboard features a curved, dual-screen unit for driver's dials and the infotainment system
• Choice of turbo petrol and diesel engines, plus self-charging-hybrid and plug-in-hybrid options

Fourth generation – 2015-2021

• Kia says the fourth-generation Sportage drew styling inspiration from fighter jets, apparently
• Model code – QL
• Facelifted in 2019
• This was the first Sportage to get a sporty GT-Line option
• Choice of petrol, turbo petrol and diesel engines with manual or automatic gearboxes

Third generation – 2010-2015

• The third-generation Sportage had much sharper styling that its predecessors
• Model code – SL
• Facelifted in 2014
• This was the first Sportage produced under former-Audi design boss, Peter Schreyer
• Choice of petrol, turbo petrol and diesel engines with manual or automatic gearboxes

Second generation – 2004-2010

• This was the first Sportage produced at Kia's Slovakian factory for the European market
• Model code – JE
• Facelifted in 2008 and 2009
• This Sportage swapped over to unibody construction like modern SUVs
• Choice of petrol and diesel engines with manual or automatic gearboxes

First generation – 1993-2004

• The first Sportage used a tough body-on-frame chassis like a pickup with optional 4WD
• Model code – NB
• Facelifted in 1998 and 2002
• It shared mechanical parts with the Mazda Bongo van
• Choice of petrol and diesel engines with manual or automatic gearboxes

What's the best Kia Sportage model?

The first-generation Sportage was a cheap-and-cheerful off-roader, while the second one changed the recipe to make it more of a road-focused family SUV. However, it was the arrival of the handsome third-generation Sportage in 2010 that really solidified the car's position as one of the most popular family haulers in the UK.

Each new Sportage that's followed the third-gen model has ramped up the quality and desirability noticeably. Whether that's the fourth-generation car's imposing optional GT-Line trim level, or the tech-heavy cabin on more recent fifth-generation Sportages. The latter's addition of hybrid engines adds yet another string to this car's bow, making it an excellent choice if you do mixed motoring with plenty of urban driving.

If your budget is approaching £20,000, we'd strongly consider a used example of the latest model, which feels more plush inside the cabin. However, if you're spending around £15,000 or less, the fourth-generation model offers roughly the same practicality and durability, not to mention a long standard equipment list.

Search nearly new and used Kia Sportage cars for sale, or read our Kia Sportage review to see what this family SUV is like to live with.