An automatic transmission is offered on 2WD models, and the EX trim level is available in 2WD for the first time. Power door locks, a theft-deterrent system and a spare tire carrier are all standard on all Sportages for 1997. A new option is a CD player. Sportage gets a new grille. A tan interior can be combined with black paint for the first time. Base 2WD models lose their standard alloy wheels.
For sale near Ashburn, VA
Sorry, there are no 1997 Kia Sportage vehicles for sale in our network.
Many residents of the Midwest and along the East Coast don't know what the heck a Kia is. Kia's are built near Seoul, South Korea, and are currently sold in western and southeastern U.S. markets. The company builds an inexpensive compact sedan, called the Sephia, and a wonderfully affordable sport utility called the Sportage.
Part-owned by Ford and Mazda, Kia relies heavily on resources from both companies as it struggles to its feet in a tough marketplace. The Sportage is the product of a collaboration between Kia, Ford, Mazda and suspension-tuning guru Lotus. Designed from the start as a sport utility, the Sportage sports tough ladder frame construction, shift-on-the-fly four-wheel-drive, and a Mazda-based powerplant.
Two trim levels are available: base and EX. Base models are well-trimmed, including power windows, tinted glass, split-folding seats, a remote fuel door release, power mirrors and a rear defroster. Power door locks, a theft deterrent system, and a spare tire carrier are newly standard for 1997. The EX adds cruise control, rear wiper and a remote liftgate release. Optional are a roof rack, air conditioning, premium stereo, CD player, leather interior, an automatic transmission and a limited slip differential.
A wide variety of colors are available on the Sportage's smoothly styled flanks; few of which appear to have originated from the minds of the folks currently in charge of painting Matchbox cars. The look is rugged yet cute; perfect for family duty in the burbs. Off-road, we found the Sportage confidence-inspiring, but it didn't feel as tight as a Toyota RAV4.
For most owners, that won't matter. Few SUV's actually leave the pavement, and on the pavement is where the Sportage shines. Lotus engineers worked wonders here, and the Sportage is stable and comfortable. The seating position is high and upright, visibility is outstanding, and the layout of the dashboard and controls is top-notch. Rear seat riders enjoy lots of room and support, afforded by "stadium style" elevated seating. From the driver's seat, the Sportage looks and feels much more substantial than its low price would lead you to believe. Our only quibble with the Sportage's interior was the lack of storage space, though this year's standard spare tire carrier certainly helps.
Kia hopes the younger families and active singles that will be buying the Sportage will find its affordability a welcome trade for some cargo room. With a loaded 4WD EX topping out at around $21,000, we think they've got little to worry about.
Advertisement
10-year/100,000-mile Powertrain Limited Warranty
Choose the trim, color, options, packages and more for your Kia
Owners of the 1997 Kia Sportage consistently appreciate its reliability and longevity. Many note that with regular maintenance, the Sportage remains a steadfast companion over the years, even with significant mileage under its belt. This small SUV has proven to be particularly adept on highways, where some report fuel efficiency reaching up to 30 mpg, a standout achievement for a vehicle of its age and class. Drivers also highlight its performance in adverse weather conditions, praising its capability in snow and ice, which is bolstered by its 4WD system. The Sportage's practicality isn't limited to just inclement weather, as it shuttles families and folds its seats to accommodate sizable grocery loads or luggage for cross-country trips. Owners appreciate the driving position as well, enjoying the elevated seat height that provides excellent road visibility. Despite its compact size, the interior space is often commended, especially the rear seating which benefits from the stadium-style design, offering comfort and support for long journeys.
Common Issues
The 1997 Kia Sportage does present several recurring issues for its owners. A frequent complaint revolves around the persistent need for replacement parts such as O2 sensors and timing belts, which demand attention as a part of its maintenance routine. Some drivers have reported a penchant for developing interior rattles, a reminder of its less refined build quality compared to competitors. On the mechanical side, certain components like the alternator, fuel pump, and clutch have been flagged for early replacement, causing inconvenience for owners. The driving experience can also be marred by a notable lack of acceleration, with the 2-liter engine sometimes struggling to provide enough power, especially on more demanding terrain or when the vehicle is fully loaded. Visibility challenges are common, particularly when reversing, which diminishes driver confidence during parking maneuvers. Furthermore, the absence of a widely available repair manual can frustrate do-it-yourself mechanics attempting routine fixes or more complex repairs, leading to reliance on dealership services.
Final Takeaways from Everyday Drivers
Everyday drivers of the 1997 Kia Sportage often find a balance of satisfaction and challenges with this compact SUV. Despite its age, many report it remains a reliable choice for daily commutes and longer road trips, providing a sense of dependability that keeps them confidently behind the wheel. Owners feel the Sportage delivers good value, particularly for those seeking a robust vehicle with adept handling in snow and ice, catering well to varied driving environments. The comfort of the high seating position is frequently praised, enhancing the overall driving experience with improved visibility and ease of entry. However, the constant need for certain repairs can be burdensome, with some owners mentioning the Sportage's fondness for O2 sensors and difficulties like shaky rides at higher speeds. The Sportage's design supports day-to-day errands with its foldable seats and adequate cargo space, though taller passengers in the rear may find the legroom wanting. While its quirks can test patience, the essence of the Sportage is reflected in the simple joy of driving, reminding its owners why they chose it in the first place.
The 1997 Kia Sportage has 3 recalls. Below you’ll find our owner reviews.
Recalls
3 recalls found
Checking if a car has a recall is simple. Just type the car's VIN number into the NHTSA website (https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls). If there's an unrepaired recall, you'll see it there.
If a recall shows up, just call your local car dealer. They'll know about the recall and will work with the car maker to fix it for free (if the recall happened within 10 years of the car being first sold).
Recall Number:
99V325000
Manufactured from:
1996-08-29 to 1999-02-01
Number of vehicles affected:
76986
Defect Description:
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES. THE WIRES CONNECTED TO THE C123 AND C124 CONNECTORS CAN BE PUT UNDER TENSION BY MOVEMENT OF THE ENGINE, THUS PULLING THE WIRES AND CONNECTORS, LOOSENING THEM AND RESULTING IN A LOSS OF CIRCUIT CONTINUITY.
Defect Consequence:
THIS CONDITION CAN CAUSE ENGINE STALLING, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
Corrective Action:
DEALERS WILL INSTALL SPRING CLIPS TO LOCK THE CONNECTORS TOGETHER. IN ADDITION, THE DEALERS WILL BE INSTRUCTED TO SOLDER A SPLICE IN THE WIRE HARNESS.
Recall Number:
97V234000
Manufactured from:
1996-07-26 to 1997-08-12
Number of vehicles affected:
23493
Defect Description:
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. A MICROSWITCH ON THE REAR HATCH LOCK CYLINDER CAN MALFUNCTION CAUSING THE POWER DOOR LOCKS TO UNLOCK INADVERTENTLY.
Defect Consequence:
SHOULD THIS OCCUR, SECURITY FROM UNWANTED INTRUSION INTO THE VEHICLE IS LOST.
Corrective Action:
DEALERS WILL MODIFY THE REAR HATCH DOOR UNLOCK CIRCUIT.
Recall Number:
02V216000
Manufacturer Recall Number:
SC027
Manufactured from:
1994-10-20 to 1998-06-24
Number of vehicles affected:
189706
Defect Description:
ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, THE SAFETY BELT BUCKLE MAY "FALSE LATCH" AND EXPOSE THE DRIVER TO UNRESTRAINED MOVEMENT DURING A CRASH.
Defect Consequence:
IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH, THE SEAT OCCUPANT MAY NOT BE PROPERLY RESTRAINED, INCREASING THE RISK OF PERSONAL INJURY.
Corrective Action:
OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN DECEMBER 20, 2002. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT KIA AT 1-800-333-4542.
I purchased this Kia new in 1997,
except for the Check Engine light which
came on all the time during the first 3-
4 years, I have not had any major
problems. I currently have 107,000
miles on it and it still starts and
runs good every day. Just oil changes
every 5,000 miles and a front gear
clutch at 59,000, covered by warrantee.
I am now in the market for a new car …
and am considering KIA again. I feel I
got my moneys worth out of this car. I
did also replace the front windshield
glass 3 times due to stones, maybe the
Kia glass is too soft I dont know.
Doesn't suck
3.5 out of 5 stars
Ginsu68, 07/17/2002
1997 Kia Sportage EX 4dr SUV 4WD
Bought the Kia new. Have been
relatively satisfied. Currently have
64,000 miles on it and have been
places other mini-utes can't even
dream of driving. It's great in the
snow and off road. There has been one
major issue - having to replace the
radiator at 44,000 miles and one minor
issue - a check engine light that is
more of an annoyance than anything
else. Every … dealer I called says that
unless it's flashing it's not a major
problem. So, it comes on and off every
once in a while and I ignore it. No
sense replacing the computer for a
minor annoyance.
This car won't leave you stranded
4.5 out of 5 stars
Lena LaFaye, 11/29/2008
1996 Kia Sportage 4dr SUV 4WD
I have owned this car for six years now. It has never once left me stranded. If you treat this car well it will run. Repairs I have done were normal considering the age. Timing belt, front wheel bearings, harmonic balancer, starter, fan clutch, brake drums and other scheduled maintenance. This car has lasted multiple cross country road trips and does exceptional on the highway. Even … now, with it being 12 years old I get 23mpg city and 30mpg hwy. The new model sportage is put to shame by this. People mention to me my car doesn't accelerate fast. I don't mind this because I'm not a fast driver. I like that it's high enough that you can step into it not stand up or stoop down.
Nightmare
2.13 out of 5 stars
Elnur, 03/08/2006
1997 Kia Sportage 4dr SUV 4WD
Door key cylinder fell inside the door body the day I brought it home. I had nearly 20 visits to the dealership that year for that problem alone. There were times I was entering the car from the passenger side. 2nd year: O2 sensor went, front brakes cylinders (?) collapsed, service light came on and off. I developed tennis elbow using the Kia shift stick For as long as I owned the car: … The car shook anytime over 45 mph - multiple visits to dealership. A horrible rattling sound under the driver's side - multiple visits to dealership. Could not get a clear view in the rear when reversing. Overall an annoying, frustrating and painful experience!
We have a limited number of reviews for the 1997 Kia Sportage, so we've included reviews for other years of the Sportage since its last redesign.