2013 Kia Sportage SX Turbo Road Test and Review: Pricing and Trim Levels
The 2013 Kia Sportage is sold in four levels of trim: Base, LX, EX and SX. The base model ($19,800) is offered only with a manual gearbox, only with front-wheel drive, and only in black, gray, or silver paint with black cloth upholstery. Standard equipment includes more than you might think: air conditioning, power windows, power door locks, power side mirrors, a tilt steering wheel, cruise control, and a trip computer. A set of 16-inch aluminum wheels comes standard, and the 6-speaker stereo features a CD/MP3 player, an auxiliary audio input jack, a USB port, an iPod connection, satellite radio, and Bluetooth with streaming audio capability.
The problem with the base model is that it comes only with a manual transmission, and there are few extras. That’s why the Sportage LX ($22,000) is more popular. It is available in a wider variety of colors, comes only with an automatic transmission, and all-wheel drive is optional. The Sportage LX distinguishes itself with remote keyless entry, dark tinted rear privacy glass, turn signal indicators embedded into the side mirrors, and 17-inch aluminum wheels.
The LX can be upgraded with a couple of option packages. The Convenience Package adds a touchscreen infotainment system, heated side mirrors, a reversing camera, reversing sensors, a tilt/telescopic steering wheel, floor mats, a cargo cover, roof rails, a rear spoiler, and more. The optional Navigation Package supplies the Sportage LX with a navigation system, a reversing camera, and a premium sound system. Additionally, this model is offered with an interior lighting package, roof rack cross bars, and a handful of other extras.
In exchange for $25,000, the Sportage EX includes the LX Convenience Package plus 18-inch alloy wheels, extra chrome trim, automatic headlights, fog lights, dual-zone automatic climate control, stain-resistant fabric, a power driver’s seat, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. Options for this model include the Navigation Package and a Premium Package with leather, heated front seats, a ventilated driver’s seat, a panoramic sunroof, Smart Key entry and push-button ignition, an auto-dimming rearview mirror with a universal garage door opener, power folding side mirrors, and Supervision gauges. A new self-explanatory Blue Interior Package is also offered for the EX model.
The Kia Sportage SX – the model we tested – sits at the top of the lineup, with a sticker price of $27,700. It features unique 18-inch wheels with black-painted pockets, gloss black grille trim, side sill moldings, LED running lights, and dual exhaust outlets. Inside, the Sportage SX is equipped with leather seats, SmartKey entry and push-button ignition, and Supervision gauges. The Navigation Package is optional, along with an SX Premium Package containing heated front seats, a ventilated driver’s seat, a panoramic sunroof, power folding side mirrors, an auto-dimming rearview mirror with a universal garage door opener, and a cargo cover.