With 2023 SUVs making a splash, there could be a rush to dealer lots. But instead of paying for a new vehicle, you might want to consider a used crossover like the 2017 model year. What does a 2017 Kia Sportage offer, how reliable is it, and what else can you get for under $20,000?
What do you get with a 2017 Kia Sportage?
Expect to find used 2017 Kia Sportage models in one of three trim levels. The LX and EX have a 2.4-liter four-cylinder that produces 181 hp, mated to a six-speed automatic and standard front-wheel drive. It also offered the option of switching to all-wheel drive. The base model LX has a backup camera, paddle controls, keyless entry, power steering and cloth seats.
It boasts a sunroof, power liftgate, privacy glass, heated steering wheel/mirrors, heated front seats and a driver’s seat with cooling option. Unlike the LX and EX, the SX Turbo features a turbocharged 2.0-litre inline four-cylinder engine that produces 240PS and 260Nm of torque.
Expect to pay anywhere from $16,058 to $20,518 for a used 2017 Sportage, depending on trim level, options, mileage and other factors.
How reliable is the 2017 Kia Sportage?
It received 4.5 out of 5 in reliability from JD Power. This model year passed the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety crash tests with multiple “Good” ratings, the highest of the IIHS awards. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) gave this used Sportage four stars out of five in the frontal and rollover crash tests and five stars in the side-scramble rating.
As far as safety recalls go, the 2017 model has four. The first concerns the trailer’s brake lights, which may remain on even when the brakes are not applied. Then there’s a possible high-pressure fuel line leak, which could be serious if the leak occurred near an ignition source.
Also, in March 2021, Kia issued a recall for a short that could occur in the hydraulic electronic control unit, which could lead to a fire in the engine compartment. The latest recall came when there was a problem with the hitch harness. Moisture and debris could accumulate on the control circuit board and cause a fire.
More excellent used SUVs on a $20,000 budget
The 2017 Kia Sportage finished second on the U.S. news list, along with the 2018 Hyundai Tucson, 2017 Tucson, and the . All four received an overall score of 8.6.
According to , the number one model is the 2018 Mazda CX-5, with an overall score of 8.7. You can find a used model for as little as $19,642, just under $20,000. However, JD Power’s reliability ratings place this model at a 3.5 out of 5, lower than the 2017 Kia Sportage.
US News places the 2018 Ford Escape sixth with an overall score of 8.5. You can find this model for around $16,703 to $21,348. This used SUV has three safety recalls. One concerns the side curtain airbags. A piece could become detached during airbag deployment, resulting in injury. Also, some models may have the wrong brake lines on the front brakes, causing them to rub against other components. Finally, the Escape has a bushing that can come loose on the shift cable, preventing the vehicle from shifting.
If you want a good used SUV for under $20,000, the 2017 Kia Sportage is a solid choice. It offers a near-perfect trust score, excellent security ratings, and plenty of features.
