The compact crossover market is difficult to crack. Although it might seem like new entries are guaranteed some level of success in this popular category, it’s not that simple. Earning a spot among the established class leaders is a considerable challenge.
Kia knows this better than most. Over the years, it has carefully shed its reputation as Hyundai’s cheaper, "iffier" little sibling and managed to cultivate a reputation worthy of respect. Further helping Kia in this regard is the fully redesigned 2017 Sportage. We test drove this compact SUV, a top-of-the-line Sportage SX Turbo, to see just how well it will fare in the hyper-competitive compact crossover category.