The 2025 Kia Sportage Hybrid has landed a spot on Cars.com’s annual Best Hybrids for the Money list, earning top honors in the Compact SUV category. It’s the second year in a row the Sportage Hybrid has made the list, signaling its continued relevance in a growing hybrid market.
The gas-powered Sportage was first introduced in the early 1990s and has evolved into one of Kia’s core models. The hybrid version ed the lineup in 2023 as part of Kia’s broader move toward electrified vehicles.
“Kia continues to prioritize value and innovation in the hybrid segment, and the Sportage Hybrid is a reflection of that,” said Kia America Chief Operating Officer Steven Center in a news release about the recent honor. “This recognition underscores our commitment to offering a broad range of choices in our lineup that don’t compromise performance, technology or design.”
The Cars.com 2025 Best Hybrids for the Money rankings are based on a simple formula: take a vehicle’s EPA-estimated combined mpg and divide it by the starting price (including destination charge). The list focuses exclusively on non-plug-in hybrid models for the 2025 model year.
The 2025 Sportage Hybrid came out on top in its segment based on its competitive fuel economy and approachable price point.
“The Kia Sportage Hybrid wins in the compact SUV category for its excellent combined mpg and attractive starting price,” said Jennifer Geiger, Cars.com news editor. “Factor in its roomy cabin and tech features, and it’s easy to see why it’s named … (the) 2025 Best Hybrid Compact SUV for the Money.”
The Sportage Hybrid features a 1.6-liter turbocharged engine paired with an electric motor and six-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel-drive models earn an EPA-estimated 43 mpg combined.
Standard features include an 8-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plus a suite of driver-assist technologies. Higher trims add dual 12.3-inch displays, a panoramic sunroof, heated and ventilated seats, and other extras aimed at convenience and comfort.
Looking ahead, Kia has already previewed the 2026 Sportage, which will come in three powertrain versions: internal combustion, hybrid and plug-in hybrid. The new model will feature updated styling and expanded trim options, including the rugged X-Line and X-Pro Prestige, aimed at buyers looking for more versatility.
The news and editorial staffs of Southern California News Group and The San Diego Union-Tribune had no role in this post’s preparation.
