The bargain hybrid in the lineup

The 2026 Kia Sportage Hybrid SX-Prestige AWD might actually be the smarter buy than the plug-in hybrid we tested last week. Yes, you lose the 30+ miles of EV range and some power, but you also save roughly $8,000 while still getting 35 MPG combined, tons of family space, and nearly all of the same premium features. For a lot of families, that tradeoff makes a whole lot of sense. The real surprise here is just how practical this thing feels in daily life. The rear seat space is massive, the cargo area is huge, and the adjustable load floor adds even more versatility for strollers, groceries, or road trip gear. Add in heated and ventilated seats, dual 12.3-inch screens, a Harman Kardon audio system, and Kia’s excellent warranty, and this starts feeling like one of the best all-around family SUVs in the segment. Highlights: * 1.6L turbocharged hybrid powertrain * 232 horsepower and 271 lb-ft of torque * 35 MPG combined on regular unleaded * AWD with Snow, Mud, & Sand terrain modes * 39.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats * Heated & ventilated front seats plus heated rear outboard seats * Dual 12.3-inch screens with wireless Apple CarPlay® & Android Auto™ * Harman Kardon® premium audio system * Remote Smart Parking Assist * Massive rear seat room for families * Heritage Blue paint looks fantastic in person #GTGarageTalk #KiaSportageHybrid #HybridSUV #FamilyVehicle #TXAutoWriters