2023 Kia Sportage Hybrid

 In a world where compact SUVs remain the bestselling vehicles on the market, the hybrid niche of these compact SUVs is maybe even hotter—especially given today's sky-high gas prices. The 2023 Kia Sportage Hybrid enters the market at a time when other automakers have already launched hybrid variants of their compact crossovers. But the Sportage Hybrid finds a way to be different from the rest with its bold styling and best-in-class fuel economy for the front-drive model—plus, this Kia also has a lower starting price.

Jumping to the all-wheel-drive variant will increase the price and lower the mpg numbers, but the Sportage Hybrid is better than the regular variant, delivering more power and drinking less gas for only a small premium of between $900 and $1,300.

Regardless of the trim, all Sportage Hybrids are powered by a 1.6-liter turbo-four engine mated to a 44-kW electric motor to deliver 227 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. The base LX trim sends all that power to the front wheels, but an all-wheel-drive system on EX and SX-Prestige trims can split the power between the front and rear axle when needed.

Like we said before, the LX gets bragging rights for its fuel economy, delivering EPA ratings of 42/44/43 mpg in city/highway/combined driving thanks to its front-drive setup. EX and SX-Prestige models aren't too far off, as they are rated for 38/38/38 mpg. Although the AWD numbers aren't class-leading, they are competitive.

All in all, this is exactly why you should get the Sportage Hybrid over the regular model. You'll be able to make up for the price premium at the pump, and you'll enjoy more performance behind the wheel.

The 2023 Kia Sportage Hybrid delivers strong, smooth acceleration, with the electric motor administering instant torque that's quickly augmented by the turbo's power. The result is a robust punch when rolling from a stop.