18Feb
If you're in the market for a versatile and comfortable SUV, the Kia Sportage might have caught your eye. But before making a decision, you might wonder: how many seats does the Kia Sportage offer?
Understanding the seating capacity and cargo space of a vehicle is crucial, especially for families or those who often travel with a group.
This article will break down everything you need to know about the seating arrangements and interior space of the Kia Sportage.
See also:
Exploring the 2025 Honda CR-V Dimensions
Seating Capacity in the Kia Sportage
2022 Sportage / Photo Credit: Kia.
The Kia Sportage is a compact SUV that primarily offers a two-row seating configuration. This means it comfortably accommodates up to five passengers.
Unlike some larger SUVs, the Sportage does not include a third row, which is something to consider if you have a larger family or frequently need to transport more than five people.
Do All New Kia Sportages Have 3rd Row Seating?
2023 Sportage / Photo Credit: Kia.
The straightforward answer is no. The Kia Sportage does not feature a third row of seats in any of its recent models, including the 2024 and 2025 versions.
The Sportage has traditionally been a compact SUV, prioritizing a balance of passenger comfort and cargo space over maximum seating capacity.
If you are looking for an SUV that provides similar features to the Kia Sportage but with the added benefit of a third-row seat, you might want to consider alternatives like the Chevrolet Traverse, Volkswagen Tiguan, and Hyundai Tucson.
The Traverse offers a spacious third row with 32 inches of legroom while the Tiguan is known for its high-quality cabin and excellent selection of engines, including a plug-in hybrid. The Tucson shares many parts with the Kia Sportage and offers a range of petrol hybrid engines.
Interior Comfort and Features
2026 Sportage / Photo Credit: Kia.
Despite not having a third row, the Kia Sportage is designed with passenger comfort in mind, showcasing a blend of modern design, advanced technology, and comfort.
In the 2025 Sportage, front passengers enjoy 41.4 inches of legroom, while rear passengers have 41.3 inches. The cabin features high-quality materials, including soft-touch surfaces and premium leather options for the seats.
The centerpiece of the interior is a 12.3-inch dual panoramic display that combines the digital instrument cluster and the infotainment touchscreen into one seamless unit. The system supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for seamless smartphone integration.
The Sportage offers heated and ventilated front seats, dual-zone climate control, and a panoramic sunroof that enhances the sense of spaciousness.
The cabin is also designed to be quiet, with improved sound-deadening materials and acoustic glass.
How Many Seats in the 2024 and 2025 Kia Sportage?
2022 Sportage / Photo Credit: Kia.
For those specifically interested in the newer models, both the 2024 and 2025 Kia Sportage continue with the two-row, five-seat configuration.
This consistency helps maintain the vehicle's reputation as a practical and compact SUV, ideal for city driving and weekend getaways.
Cargo and Trunk Space in the Kia Sportage
2023 Sportage / Photo Credit: Kia.
The new Sportage boasts a class-leading cargo capacity with 39.6 cubic feet of storage space behind the second row of seats, which can be expanded to 74.1 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down.
The Kia Sportage’s competitive cargo space makes it a strong contender in the compact SUV segment. While the seating capacity is an important factor, cargo space is equally crucial for many buyers.
Kia Sportage Trunk Space and Boot Capacity
2022 Sportage / Photo Credit: Kia.
The trunk space in the Kia Sportage is designed to handle everyday needs, from grocery runs to road trips.
The 2025 model offers a class-leading cargo capacity of 39.6 cubic feet behind the second row. Folding down the rear seats expands the space to 74.1 cubic feet, making it ideal for carrying larger items and accommodating various storage needs.
With the rear seats up, the Sportage provides a decent amount of cargo space, enough for several suitcases or a large grocery haul. When you fold down the rear seats, the cargo capacity significantly increases, allowing for larger items like sports equipment or furniture.
Kia Sportage Luggage Capacity
2022 Sportage / Photo Credit: Kia.
For those wondering about the luggage capacity, the Kia Sportage can comfortably fit approximately 4 large suitcases (29-31 inches each) or 6 medium suitcases (25-27 inches each) or 8 small suitcases (19-22 inches each).
This makes it versatile for various travel needs, whether you're packing for a family vacation or a solo adventure.
The adaptable cargo area ensures you can maximize the space according to your needs. With 39.6 cubic feet of luggage space behind the second row, which expands to 74.1 cubic feet with seats folded, the new Sportage can accommodate items like suitcases, camping gear, or a bicycle.
See also:
Kia Sportage vs Toyota RAV4: A Comparison
Comparing Cargo Space: Kia Sportage vs. Competitors
2022 Sportage / Photo Credit: Kia.
When comparing the Kia Sportage's cargo space to its competitors in the same class, it emerges the clear winner.
Here’s a cargo space comparison of the 2025 Kia Sportage with three of its closest competitors in the compact SUV class:
2025 Toyota RAV4:
- Cargo space behind the second row: 37.6 cubic feet
- Cargo space with rear seats folded: 69.8 cubic feet
2025 Honda CR-V:
- Cargo space behind the second row: 39.2 cubic feet
- Cargo space with rear seats folded: 75.8 cubic feet
2025 Mazda CX-5:
- Cargo space behind the second row: 30.9 cubic feet
- Cargo space with rear seats folded: 59.6 cubic feet
The 2025 Kia Sportage offers 39.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row and 74.1 cubic feet with the rear seats folded, making it the more spacious option in its class.
Although it might not offer the vast space of larger SUVs, its efficient use of space and versatile cargo options make it a favorite among compact SUV buyers.
Does the Kia Sportage Have 3rd Row Seating?
As mentioned earlier, the Kia Sportage does not include a third row of seating. However, this design choice allows for more generous cargo space and a roomier cabin for the passengers it does accommodate.
Additional Features of the Kia Sportage
2023 Sportage / Photo Credit: Kia.
The Kia Sportage is not just about seating and cargo space; it also offers a range of features that enhance its appeal.
The 2025 Kia Sportage stands out with its bold, modern exterior design, spacious and premium interior, advanced driver assistance systems, efficient powertrain options including hybrid variants, state-of-the-art infotainment and connectivity features, and enhanced safety technologies.
It's a well-rounded compact SUV designed for comfort and performance.
2024 Kia Sportage LX Interior
The 2024 Kia Sportage LX, one of the popular trims, boasts a well-designed interior with user-friendly controls and a sleek dashboard.
It features a spacious cabin with high-quality materials, an 8-inch touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and comfortable cloth seats. The design emphasizes practicality and comfort.
Is the Kia Sportage Right for You?
Photo Credit: Kia.
The Kia Sportage is an excellent option for those looking for a compact SUV with a balance of passenger comfort and cargo versatility. Its two-row seating makes it ideal for small families or individuals who prioritize space and comfort over maximum seating capacity.
While it doesn’t offer a third row, the Sportage compensates with its spacious cargo area and innovative interior features, making it a strong contender in its class. Whether you're navigating city streets or embarking on a weekend adventure, the Kia Sportage is designed to meet your needs with ease.
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