2024 Kia Sportage LX: A Stylish SUV with Big Value
Introduction to the 2024 Kia Sportage LX
The 2024 Kia Sportage LX is here, and it’s making waves in the compact SUV market. Designed to stand out with its bold styling and a wealth of standard features, the Sportage LX is one of those vehicles that blend affordability, utility, and modern tech into a neat package. Whether you need a reliable family car or an everyday commuter that doesn't break the bank, this SUV offers a ton of perks. But like any car, it’s not perfect. Let’s dive into what makes the 2024 Kia Sportage LX an exciting option—and a few things to consider before you commit.
Exterior Design and Style
A Fresh Look that Commands Attention
The 2024 Sportage LX brings a sleek and aggressive design language that moves away from the more conservative looks of its predecessors. Kia made sure the front grille looks distinct, flanked by boomerang-shaped LED daytime running lights, which give the car a sharp and upscale vibe.
Wheels and Paint Options
- Standard 17-inch alloy wheels
- Available in seven exterior paint colors, including Steel Gray, Fusion Black, and Sapphire Blue
The rear of the vehicle follows with slim taillights connected by a black bar, a trend seen in more premium SUVs. But one thing to note—some people may find the design polarizing. Not everyone is a fan of the busy front end or the unique headlight arrangement.
“I love how the Sportage LX grabs attention without going overboard. It’s stylish but still practical for everyday life” — Alex Collantes, a proud owner of the 2024 Kia Sportage LX.
Interior Comfort and Features
Spacious Cabin with Thoughtful Touches
Inside the 2024 Sportage LX, you'll find high-quality materials that are impressive for a base trim. It can comfortably seat up to five adults, with plenty of headroom and legroom in both rows. Rear passengers benefit from reclining seatbacks—a feature not often seen in this price range.
Interior Highlights
- 8-inch touchscreen display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Cloth seats with manual adjustment
- 60/40 split-folding rear seats for more cargo flexibility
With 39.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and 74.1 cubic feet with the seats folded down, the Sportage LX offers some of the best storage in its class. However, while the interior is well-organized, some might feel that the plastic elements on the dashboard cheapen the otherwise upscale feel.
Technology and Infotainment
User-Friendly Tech for Modern Drivers
The 8-inch touchscreen on the 2024 Kia Sportage LX is responsive and easy to navigate. Kia has kept the interface simple, meaning you won't need to fumble around while driving. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard—a huge plus in a world where many brands still charge extra for these features.
Other Tech Features
- Bluetooth connectivity
- USB ports in both the front and rear
- Standard six-speaker audio system
While the tech is great overall, it’s worth noting that the lack of built-in navigation might be a downside for some buyers who prefer integrated solutions over smartphone apps.
Performance and Driving Experience
A Smooth and Comfortable Ride
The 2024 Sportage LX is powered by a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine that produces 187 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque. It’s paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, which delivers power smoothly to either the front wheels or the available all-wheel-drive system.
The ride is tuned for comfort rather than sportiness, which means it glides over most road surfaces without much fuss. The suspension absorbs bumps nicely, but drivers looking for a more engaging driving experience might find the steering to be on the lighter side.
Fuel Economy
- FWD model: 25 mpg city / 32 mpg highway
- AWD model: 23 mpg city / 28 mpg highway
While these numbers are respectable, they’re not the best in the segment. Competitors like the Honda CR-V or Toyota RAV4 offer slightly better fuel efficiency.
Safety Features and Ratings
A Focus on Safety with Advanced Driver Aids
Kia has packed the 2024 Sportage LX with a solid suite of safety features. Many of these come as part of Kia’s Drive Wise package, which ensures that even the base model gets access to modern driver-assist technologies.
Key Safety Features
- Forward collision warning with pedestrian detection
- Lane keeping assist
- Driver attention warning
However, the adaptive cruise control is not available on the LX trim, which could be a disappointment for buyers used to more comprehensive driver-assist systems. Still, the Sportage LX earned top marks in crash tests from the NHTSA and IIHS, which gives buyers added peace of mind.
Pricing and Trim Levels
An Affordable Entry Point with Generous Features
The starting MSRP for the 2024 Kia Sportage LX is around $26,000 for the front-wheel-drive model. All-wheel drive is available for an additional $1,500, bringing the price up to $27,500. Considering the level of equipment offered at this price point, the LX trim delivers excellent value.
Available Trims
- LX: Base model with essential features
- EX: Adds upgraded interior materials and larger wheels
- SX: Includes more tech and convenience features
While the LX offers everything you need for daily driving, buyers looking for more premium touches might find the mid-level EX trim a better choice.
Pros and Cons of the 2024 Kia Sportage LX
What Makes It Shine
- Stylish design that stands out in a crowded market
- Lots of standard features including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Spacious interior and ample cargo space
- Top-tier safety ratings
Potential Drawbacks
- Lack of built-in navigation could be a dealbreaker for some
- Fuel economy is not as competitive as some rivals
- No adaptive cruise control on the base LX trim
- Some plastic elements inside feel a bit cheap
Competitor Comparison
How Does the Sportage LX Stack Up?
When considering the 2024 Kia Sportage LX, it's worth looking at how it compares to other compact SUVs in its class.
Kia Sportage LX vs. Honda CR-V
- CR-V offers slightly better fuel efficiency but lacks the same bold styling
- Sportage LX provides more standard features at a lower price point
Kia Sportage LX vs. Toyota RAV4
- RAV4 offers a more engaging driving experience but at a higher price
- Sportage LX provides a smoother and more comfortable ride
Final Thoughts on the 2024 Kia Sportage LX
The 2024 Kia Sportage LX is a well-rounded SUV that offers style, comfort, and technology at an affordable price. Its spacious cabin, solid safety features, and user-friendly tech make it a great choice for families and commuters alike. However, some drivers might feel limited by the lack of adaptive cruise control or built-in navigation.
“It’s hard to beat the combination of value and style the Sportage LX offers. It really makes you feel like you’re driving something more expensive” — Alex Collantes.
If you're looking for a reliable and well-equipped compact SUV without overspending, the 2024 Kia Sportage LX should be high on your list. It’s an SUV that’s ready to meet the demands of modern drivers while still being friendly to your budget.
FAQ: 2024 Kia Sportage LX
How many miles per gallon does the Sportage LX get?
- The FWD model gets 25 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway while the AWD version returns slightly less.
Does the Sportage LX come with a sunroof?
- No the sunroof is not available on the base LX trim. You’ll need to move up to the EX or SX trims for that feature.
What warranty does Kia offer on the Sportage LX?
- Kia provides an industry-leading 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty which adds significant peace of mind.
The 2024 Kia Sportage LX is a solid choice for drivers looking for an affordable compact SUV. It offers a lot of features at a great price but make sure you weigh its pros and cons to ensure it’s the right fit for your lifestyle.