KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- The Kia Sportage S CRDi AWD remains the only mainstream medium SUV still offering diesel power.
- Strong torque, all-wheel drive and a comfortable ride make it one of the most balanced family SUVs.
- It’s ageing, but if diesel efficiency matters, there’s still little else like it.
Diesel medium SUVs have quietly disappeared, but the Kia Sportage S CRDi AWD refuses to bow out. At a time when hybrids dominate showroom conversations, this is now the last mainstream diesel option left standing in the segment.
That matters more than it sounds. For buyers who value long-distance efficiency, effortless torque and relaxed highway cruising, the Sportage S CRDi AWD still feels reassuringly familiar — and impressively sorted — even if it’s no longer the newest face in the crowd.
Pricing and Positioning
The 2025 Kia Sportage S CRDi AWD is priced at $43,890 (excluding on-road costs). It sits as the cheapest diesel and most affordable all-wheel-drive option in the Sportage line-up.
The wider Sportage range spans 13 variants, starting from $38,490 for the front-wheel-drive petrol S and climbing to $60,370 for the GT-Line HEV AWD. The test car’s $600 Vesta Blue paint brings the total to $44,490.
In the crowded medium SUV space — with close to 30 rivals under $60k — the Sportage competes directly with the Honda CR-V, Hyundai Tucson and Toyota RAV4. What none of them offer anymore is a mainstream diesel alternative.
| Model | Drivetrain | Engine | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kia Sportage S Petrol | FWD | 2.0L petrol | $38,490 |
| Kia Sportage S CRDi AWD | AWD | 2.0L turbo-diesel | $43,890 |
| Kia Sportage GT-Line HEV | AWD | Hybrid | $60,370 |
Equipment and Ownership
As the entry diesel, the Sportage S doesn’t pretend to be luxurious, but it isn’t stripped bare either. You get all-wheel drive, 17-inch alloy wheels with a full-size spare, keyless entry and start, cloth seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and single-zone air-conditioning with rear vents.
Power-adjustable mirrors, folding door mirrors, silver roof rails, power windows and a height-adjustable driver’s seat are all included. It’s sensible, practical kit rather than showroom sparkle.
Kia’s seven-year unlimited-kilometre warranty remains one of the strongest in the class. Scheduled servicing is required every 12 months or 15,000km, with capped-price servicing totalling $3,894 over seven years if you stick with the dealer network.
Safety Coverage
Safety is a strong point. The Sportage S CRDi AWD carries a five-star ANCAP rating based on 2022 testing.
Standard driver-assistance features include autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian, cyclist and junction detection, lane keep and follow assist, blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control with stop-go, rear cross-traffic alert, speed sign recognition and driver attention monitoring.
There are seven airbags, including a front-centre airbag, plus LED headlights with auto high beam. It’s not cutting-edge, but it covers the essentials buyers expect in this class.
Technology and Connectivity
Every 2025 Sportage now runs a 12.3-inch infotainment display, paired with a digital instrument cluster. Kia’s latest system supports wireless smartphone connectivity, over-the-air updates and connected services via KiaConnect.
There’s no built-in navigation at this trim level, but Apple CarPlay and Android Auto handle that easily. Cabin audio comes through six speakers, supported by AM/FM and DAB+ radio.
Charging options are plentiful, with four USB-C ports and two 12-volt outlets, including one in the boot — handy for family and touring use.
Engine and Performance
Power comes from Kia’s 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel, producing 137kW and 416Nm. Torque arrives early and stays strong, making everyday driving relaxed rather than frantic.
An eight-speed automatic handles shifting duties, while the AWD system provides extra traction in wet conditions or on loose surfaces. Drive modes include Eco, Normal, Sport and Smart, with Smart adapting to how you drive rather than forcing you into presets.
Fuel Efficiency
Official combined fuel use is 6.3L/100km, though real-world testing returned a more realistic 7.5L/100km overall. Urban traffic pushed consumption to 8.6L/100km, while steady highway cruising dropped it to 6.5L/100km.
With a 54-litre tank, expect a touring range of roughly 780km, allowing a sensible buffer. That long-legged ability is where diesel still makes sense.
On the Road
Some SUVs try too hard to feel sporty and forget basic comfort. The Sportage doesn’t fall into that trap.
Ride quality is composed, absorbing bumps without crashing, while steering is accurate enough to inspire confidence without demanding attention. The diesel engine is impressively quiet and avoids the sluggish response that often plagues oil-burners.
Everything works together smoothly. The transmission shifts cleanly, the seats are comfortable and the cabin layout is intuitive. It’s one of those vehicles where complaints are hard to find — aside from the overzealous speed warning system, which thankfully is easier to mute following recent updates.
Light Off-Road Ability
With 181mm of ground clearance and AWD traction, the Sportage can handle gravel roads and firm sand. Serious off-roading isn’t its brief, though, with no low-range gearing or underbody protection.
Think campsite access, not bush-bashing.
Interior Space and Practicality
Cabin space is generous for four adults, with adequate room for a fifth over shorter trips. Storage is well thought out, with cupholders, door bins, rear vents and a folding centre armrest.
Boot capacity stands at 543 litres, expanding to 1,829 litres with the rear seats folded. That’s competitive for the segment and practical for family duties.
The downside is presentation. The S trim looks its price, with visible switch blanks and plain materials reminding you this is the entry point. It’s functional rather than inviting.
Should You Buy One?
The 2025 Kia Sportage S CRDi AWD isn’t fresh, flashy or fashionable — and that’s exactly its appeal.
It delivers strong value, excellent ride comfort, real-world efficiency and one of the best-balanced driving experiences in the class. If diesel still makes sense for how you drive, there’s simply no direct alternative left among mainstream brands.
Age aside, it remains a smart, rational choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Kia Sportage S CRDi AWD the last diesel medium SUV?
Among mainstream brands, yes. Most rivals have moved entirely to petrol or hybrid powertrains.
Is it cheaper to own than a hybrid?
Upfront pricing is lower than most hybrids, and diesel efficiency still suits high-mileage drivers, though hybrids may cost less in urban fuel use.
Does it feel outdated inside?
The tech holds up well, but interior design and materials are clearly more basic than newer rivals.
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