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Used 2014 Kia Sportage SUV Consumer Reviews

3.4 out of 5 stars
13 reviews

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4 out of 5 stars

Best Kia I've Had So Far!

Leslie Ray, 03/07/2016
updated 09/09/2016
2014 Kia Sportage LX 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
41 of 41 people found this review helpful

I've seen some other reviews here that are not particularly generous. I've owned three Kias prior to my current (just acquired) 2014 Kia Sportage. The first two were 2006 and 2007 Kia Spectras (purchased new), both had very comfortable seats, drove well, the 2006 was totaled when I was hit head on (thankfully, the airbags deployed and I wasn't injured in the least). I had the 2007 for 4 years before I decided to purchase a larger vehicle to use for transporting event equipment for my small business. I purchased a 2011 Kia Sportage (new) and while it served most of my needs, I found the front bucket seats to be VERY uncomfortable compared to the Spectra seats. I sold my 2011 Kia Sportage recently and purchased a used 2014 Kia Sportage with only 12K miles on it. The previous owner traded it in citing complaints with the engine. Kia replaced the engine with new, and I picked up the car soon after. So far, I absolutely LOVE the 2014 Kia Sportage! The body went through something of a change since 2011...the front grill is much snazzier (beehive pattern, as opposed to the old straight lines on the 2011). The wheels are much better quality and have an improved look to them. The seats are a LOT more comfortable than the seats in the 2011 Sportage, although still not quite as comfortable as the seats in the Spectra, which was more of an economy car (go figure). The 2014 drives much more smoothly than the 2011; it's quieter, and feels more solid (including the way the doors close--less of a "clang", more of a heavy "clunk". The transition between gears on the 2014 is smoother than the 2011. Bluetooth is MUCH improved in the 2014...the voice is soothing, not irritatingly loud and annoying like the Bluetooth voice in the 2011. I've also noticed that it is much more accurate in terms of interpreting my commands. I like the upgraded buttons on the stereo console--they look sharp, not cheap. The 2014 I purchased has the same parking sensors that the 2011 did, but it also has the backup camera that comes on when you put the car in reverse. This is a feature I had wanted in the 2011, but they wanted another $2500 for it, so I opted not to get it at the time. The 2011 also came with mud flaps, but at the price of $300, I told them to take them off...I wasn't going to pay for them. The 2014 has the flaps, and I like the look as well as the functionality. Overall, I'm very pleased with the 2014 Kia Sportage so far. However, if you previously had a higher quality SUV/Crossover, you will notice the difference and you may not be impressed. For me, the value one gets with the standard features on a Kia, as well as the safety rating and the warranty, make Kia an excellent buy, and I am a loyal Kia owner. (And, no one paid me to say that. Lol.) Update: I've had my 2014 Kia Sportage a while now and I'm still very pleased with it. The braking is much smoother than it was on the 2011 Sportage, and it still drives so much better than the 2011. I did have an issue with a sound that seemed to be emanting from the muffler since I last posted, it turned out that there was a break in a solder joint. Took it in to the dealership for service, and they took care of it right away, no problem. I'm happy to say that the service department at the Kia dealership has been excellent so far (I started going to a dealership a little further from me). Overall, I'm still quite pleased with my 2014 Sportage.

Safety
4 out of 5 stars
Technology
4 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Interior
4 out of 5 stars
Comfort
4 out of 5 stars
Reliability
4 out of 5 stars
Value
4 out of 5 stars
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5 out of 5 stars

My favorite vehicle to date

Mike, 10/15/2017
2014 Kia Sportage EX 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
19 of 19 people found this review helpful

The 2014 Sportage has meet my needs and expectations, I really love it! The compact size is perfect, the interior & exterior design is great and It's a smooth ride that handles very well, doesn't feel clunky at all. So far, its been very reliable with no major issues to report!

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
5 out of 5 stars
Performance
4 out of 5 stars
Interior
5 out of 5 stars
Comfort
4 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Value
4 out of 5 stars
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4 out of 5 stars

Even Better Second Time Around!

Rob, 12/12/2016
updated 12/12/2018
2014 Kia Sportage SX 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
16 of 16 people found this review helpful

I bought a new Kia Sportage in 2009 without knowing much about the line or manufacturer, however they had great rebate incentives and a solid warranty. At 96,000 miles, after only routine maintenance and new tires, I traded it in for this upgraded version. After two years of driving my 2014 Sportage SX, I still enjoy it every time behind the wheel. The quality and safety are reliable and the same as I expected, fuel economy could probably be a little better, however I bought this one because of the turbo and it does impact the performance. For those saying it has stiff suspension, you are correct, because it's the sportier design with the turbo the suspension is stiffer for the sport performance and handling. The fuel economy is better when I use the eco mode button, however that's not why I bought the SX. It's a small SUV which works well for hauling kids and groceries with average fuel efficiency, in my opinion, and does the job of something expected in this range of vehicles. I've not had any trouble getting around in the Minnesota winters with it driving on ice and snow, although it doesn't like the extremely cold weather and the fuel use does increase driving below freezing. Why I still enjoy driving it though is not the reliability and safety it provides; it's because of the turbo and the giddyup with which this car moves. It's just fun to drive. Perhaps it's just me because this is the first car I've had with a turbo that can get up and go while cutting in and out of traffic or around curves without feeling like it's getting too tippy. It looks sharp, the interior features are great for the vehicle, ventilated seats are nice in the hot summer with the leather, but not a deal breaker. If you purchase this thinking it's comparable to luxury SUV's out there because it's the top Sportage model, then you'll be disappointed. If you want something still affordable with some nice perks that is fun to drive, then this might be the vehicle for you. UPDATE 12/2018 at 55,000 miles: After four years of owning this car I still enjoy driving it! Still has plenty of giddyup and gets around like new with no struggles in poor weather. Haven't had any maintenance issues or mechanical troubles other than replacing the tires. Would buy again!

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
3 out of 5 stars
Performance
4 out of 5 stars
Interior
3 out of 5 stars
Comfort
3 out of 5 stars
Reliability
4 out of 5 stars
Value
4 out of 5 stars
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4 out of 5 stars

2014 Sportage -- pleased owner

Dale Tomlinson, 02/03/2017
2014 Kia Sportage LX 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
8 of 8 people found this review helpful

manual trans was very smooth, but almost geared too low; you could easily drive in 6th gear (overdrive!) at 40 mph, and 1st gear --withiut a heavy load or trailer -- was basically unnecessary. Vehicle was very stable on the road (and off).

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
4 out of 5 stars
Performance
4 out of 5 stars
Interior
4 out of 5 stars
Comfort
5 out of 5 stars
Reliability
4 out of 5 stars
Value
4 out of 5 stars
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5 out of 5 stars

Powerful, handy, better tech than CRV or RAV4!

Yona, 11/26/2020
updated 01/13/2021
2014 Kia Sportage SX 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful

For the money, KIA gives you so much more! With 260 ponies and 269 lb feet, a consumer would have to start shopping in the luxury market which is significantly more expensive and with only marginal rewards that top this SUV. JD power awarded it best initial quality and safety. Design rivals Range Rover Evoque. I love Subaru and had a Forester and WRX, but this is just quicker, sportier, higher off ground and handier with less bulk and clanking engine noise as found in the humdrum Boxer engine...

Safety
4 out of 5 stars
Technology
5 out of 5 stars
Performance
4 out of 5 stars
Interior
4 out of 5 stars
Comfort
4 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Value
5 out of 5 stars
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5 out of 5 stars

Good little car does everything well

Doc, 09/13/2021
2014 Kia Sportage LX 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful

First, the cons: I can't think of any. This little car got 25 mpg last week on a trip up the Tetons, towing a utility trailer. It has good acceleration and has no trouble keeping up with freeway traffic. And it's pretty comfortable on long trips, too. (Hint: Put good tires on it and the ride will make you glad you did!) I like it.

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3 out of 5 stars

Trouble Already!

Brian, 09/25/2015
2014 Kia Sportage EX 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
17 of 28 people found this review helpful

This SUV is a rough riding uncomfortable car, but that is only after we can get it started. With less than 14,000 miles on it we have had it towed back to the dealer twice because it left us flat without starting. So far not very reliable. I also do not like getting in or out of the car. I hit my head a lot. Only being 5'.7" tall, this not something I'm a custome to. In addition the car is loud and forget about opening windows or sun roof. The strangest whistles, howls, and hums we ever heard. So far easily, without question, the worst new car we ever owned. Compared to the comfort and reliability of the 96 VW Jetta, 04 Saturn Vue, and 03 Dodge Van which we bought all new, and that all went 100,000 miles each without need for a tow truck. I would buy each one of those vehicles again but I have no interest in even getting back into our 2014 Kia Sportage ever again, let alone ever buying it again. Sorry Kia, looks aren't everything. You gotta do better than this.

Safety
4 out of 5 stars
Technology
3 out of 5 stars
Performance
4 out of 5 stars
Interior
3 out of 5 stars
Comfort
2 out of 5 stars
Reliability
1 out of 5 stars
Value
3 out of 5 stars
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4 out of 5 stars

Well Pleased

Juana Felxi, 07/05/2017
2014 Kia Sportage LX 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
3 of 5 people found this review helpful

That the front driver seat is uncomfortable.

Safety
4 out of 5 stars
Technology
4 out of 5 stars
Performance
4 out of 5 stars
Interior
4 out of 5 stars
Comfort
3 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Value
4 out of 5 stars
Report Abuse
1 out of 5 stars

Caution. Transmission problems with only 20K miles

YBR, 06/16/2016
updated 12/16/2016
2014 Kia Sportage EX 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
4 of 8 people found this review helpful

My opinion about this car has changed since my previous review. Over 20 000 miles, this car began to present a problem with the transmission, which is very disengaging, in such a new car. The problem was that sometimes I stopped the car in a stop sign or a light, and when I tried to move it again, I accelerated, but the car barely moved, after about 30-40 seconds, I could feel like a blow or jolt and then the transmission responded and the car start to move normally again. After reporting the problem 3 times on Kia dealers, they finally replaced the transmission. I do not know if it was bad luck or low quality Kia, but I definitely choose to replace this car with another make and model; and at this point I recommend a lot of caution to all buyers who are considering buying a Kia.

Safety
2 out of 5 stars
Technology
5 out of 5 stars
Performance
1 out of 5 stars
Interior
5 out of 5 stars
Comfort
5 out of 5 stars
Reliability
1 out of 5 stars
Value
2 out of 5 stars
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5 out of 5 stars

Great 100k warranty and service from KIA

Tracey R, 08/19/2021
2014 Kia Sportage EX 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

I’ve put approximately 140,000 miles on this vehicle over 7 years. Great for road trips including a boogie board and luggage packing without impacting the front and back seats. Warranty replacement of engine at approximately 93,000 miles free of charge by KIA. Also because engine failed on a road trip - KIA paid for 100 mile tow, car-rental, replaced engine and paid to ship vehicle back to dealer where I live. Having dealt with KIA on this warranty issue, I would purchase a KIA Sportage again.

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1 out of 5 stars

Hated this vehicle!

KJ, 11/16/2015
updated 04/12/2019
2014 Kia Sportage SX 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
4 of 12 people found this review helpful

I purchased a new 2014 KIA Sportage SX. I have owned the vehicle just shy of two years; now at 3,600 miles. I have avoided driving it due to the damage done to the dash by the KIA dealerships (makes me furious when I get in the vehicle). The overall vehicle appearance is nice; not the most comfortable vehicle and somewhat of a sloppy ride. It has decent power; would say fair. The UVO (navigation/stereo) is a major sore spot. The unit gives error messages in Korean (not helpful in U.S.), no one at KIA can provide any interpretation information. The unit locks up repeatedly; has been replaced 4 times (10 trips to dealerships). The only way I have been able to keep the music playing is to remove the SD card and hit the reset button repeatedly after it locks up. It became a source of entertainment having friends laugh about the Korean messages; the incorrect navigation (evidently normal per KIA). KIA needs some serious work on their customer service! It would be a decent vehicle if KIA could get rid of the useless technology that does not function correctly and provide a decent service center. I surrendered and cut my losses; got rid of this vehicle at 5600 miles! Never another KIA!!!!!!!!! I'm so happy I no longer own this vehicle!!!!

Safety
3 out of 5 stars
Technology
1 out of 5 stars
Performance
3 out of 5 stars
Interior
2 out of 5 stars
Comfort
2 out of 5 stars
Reliability
3 out of 5 stars
Value
1 out of 5 stars
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1 out of 5 stars

Uncomfortable Seats, Horrible Gas mileage,

t.turman@gmail.com, 08/19/2016
2014 Kia Sportage LX 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
3 of 13 people found this review helpful

So paid cash for a Mustang GT that I bought from a friend, well spouse drove the thing one time and said it pulled to the left so took it to Ford and found out it had been totaled out by insurance company and it was on the Carfax, so spouse threw a fit and made me trade it in, had a choice between a 2010 Chevy Malibu which was a hell no and a 2014 Sportage, so took it I absolutely hate it. Seats are uncomfortable, they have no way to adjust lumbar support in lower back, the steering wheel doesn't come down enough so if you want to put your arms on the armrest you have to rotate which arm is driving. I got the same gas mileage in the Mustang that I get in this POS, It has no power to go, even turning the damn ECO off its like waiting for the hamster in the wheel to catch up...... I fill up at least twice a week, even if I take it easy and drive like a grandpa it just sucks. Unfortunately I am stuck in this damn thing for at least two years or unless someone runs a stoplight or stop sign and takes the whole front end off, which I hope for every time I get behind the wheel, I would get out and hug them afterwards and thank them. I think the only thing I like about it is the color and the height. That's about it....

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
2 out of 5 stars
Performance
1 out of 5 stars
Interior
1 out of 5 stars
Comfort
1 out of 5 stars
Reliability
4 out of 5 stars
Value
2 out of 5 stars
Report Abuse
2 out of 5 stars

horrible car

jim, 08/31/2016
2014 Kia Sportage SX 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
0 of 6 people found this review helpful

extremely uncomfortable. bad suspension dont buy it

Comfort
1 out of 5 stars
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