The fourth-generation Kia Sportage made a splash in our market. Here’s what you should know if you’re considering a used option.
The Kia Sportage has evolved into a strong player in South Africa’s midsize-SUV segment. The fourth-generation model (QL series), available locally from 2016 to 2022, was a high point for the badge, with sharp looks, refined driving dynamics, and a tech-laden cabin that punched above its price class. For South African buyers eyeing the used market, it’s a smart pick – especially if it’s a later model backed by Kia’s seven-year/200 000 km warranty – often still active on lower-mileage examples.
Rundown on the fourth-generation Kia Sportage
Launched in South Africa in October 2016, the fourth-gen Sportage replaced the third generation with a bolder design that was inspired by the larger Sorento. It featured the ‘tiger-nose’ grille, LED headlamps, and a sportier stance. A 2019 facelift refreshed the styling with new bumpers, wheels, and interior tweaks. The SUV offered seating for five and 503 litres of boot space, which was expandable to 1 492 litres for utility purposes.
The engine options on offer catered to a variety of needs, and this included base 1.6-litre naturally aspirated petrol (97 kW/161 N.m), 2.0-litre naturally aspirated petrol (115 kW, 196 N.m), 2.4-litre naturally aspirated petrol (135 kW/237 N.m), a 1.6-litre turbopetrol (130 kW, 265 N.m) on GT-Line models, and the popular 2.0-litre turbodiesel (131 kW, 400 N.m). Transmissions included a six-speed manual (mostly on base models), a six-speed automatic, or a seven-speed dual-clutch, with front-wheel drive (FWD) standard and all-wheel drive (AWD) on select higher trims.
In our 2019 report of the Sportage 1.6 GDI Ignite AT, we noted:
“While the Sportage package remains as impressive as ever overall, it’s the decision to introduce the brand’s ageing naturally aspirated 1.6-litre Gamma engine to the party that may prove a more difficult sell. Mated with a well-sorted six-speed automatic transmission, in this 1 479 kg derivative, you’re constantly aware (whether audibly or via the fast-approaching traffic in your rear-view mirror) that the claimed 161 N.m of maximum torque is available only at 4 850 r/min.”
Trims ranged from entry-level Ignite (air-con, Bluetooth, alloys) to mid-spec EX (leather trim, touchscreen, reverse camera) and top-tier GT-Line (panoramic roof, adaptive cruise control, premium audio). Safety was a strong suit, with six airbags, stability control, and optional blind-spot monitoring earning the Sportage a five-star Euro NCAP safety rating at the time.
What to look out for when buying a used Kia Sportage
- Service history: Insist on full Kia dealer records. The warranty (seven years/200 000 km) transfers, but skipped services void it. Check for timing belt replacements on petrol models and DPF/EGR issues on diesels from short trips.
- Engine & turbo health: Turbo lag or smoke signals problems on the 1.6T or 2.0D. Blocked DPFs (diesel particulate filters) in diesels cause limp mode. Petrol models may have coil pack failures or oil consumption if neglected.
- Transmission: Watch for jerky shifts or slipping in high-mileage units – both manual and auto.
- Suspension & steering: Front coil springs failing is common. Listen for knocks from worn bushes or struts. Uneven tyre wear hints at alignment woes.
Which One to Get?
For most South Africans, the 2.0 CRDi EX automatic (2019-2022) is the golden choice. The 131 kW/400 N.m diesel delivers punchy performance and efficiency (6-7 L/100 km, claimed), perfect for long hauls or towing (up to 1 500 kg, braked). The EX trim packs value with leather, infotainment, and safety kit, while post-facelift refinements add polish. The FWD is ample, unless you need AWD for gravel.
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