At a Glance
Power
139hp @ 5700
187hp @ 6100
Torque
195lb-ft
178lb-ft @ 4000
Towing
—
1653lbs
Engine
1.6 L/96cc
2.5 L/152cc
Choosing between the KIA Niro and the KIA Sportage is one of the most common decisions car buyers in the United States face. The KIA Niro delivers 139hp @ 5700 while the KIA Sportage produces 187hp @ 6100. Pricing starts at $29,890 for the Niro and $34,290 for the Sportage. Both vehicles have their merits. The right choice depends on your priorities: fuel economy, performance, towing ability, safety features or total cost of ownership. This comparison covers every specification available so you can make an informed decision.
Performance
Power Output (hp)
139hp @ 5700
187hp @ 6100
Torque (lb-ft)
195lb-ft
178lb-ft @ 4000
Engine & Drivetrain
Engine Capacity
1.6 L/96cc
2.5 L/152cc
Cylinders
4
4
Fuel Type
Hybrid
Gasoline
Transmission
Auto-Shift Manual w/OD
Automatic
Number of Gears
6
8
Drive Wheels
Front Wheel Drive
Front Wheel Drive
Fuel Economy
Fuel Economy - City (mpg)
53 (Est)mpg
25 (2025)mpg
Fuel Economy - Highway (mpg)
54 (Est)mpg
33 (2025)mpg
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)
11.1gal
14.3gal
Dimensions
Length (in)
174in
183.5in
Width (in)
71.9in
73.4in
Height (in)
60.8in
66.3in
Wheelbase (in)
107.1in
108.5in
Curb Weight (lbs)
3071lbs
—
Towing & Payload
Towing Capacity (lbs)
—
1653lbs
Safety
ABS
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Brake Assist
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Stability Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Traction Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Driver Airbag
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Passenger Airbag
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Side Airbags Front
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Curtain Airbags
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Features & Tech
Air Conditioning
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Climate Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Cruise Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Adaptive Cruise Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Bluetooth
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Backup Camera
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Rear Parking Aid
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Sunroof
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Heated Seats
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Power Seat Adjustment
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Keyless Entry
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Trailer Hitch
—
✓ Standard
Alloy Wheels
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
The Verdict
Which Wins?
Overall Winner
Tie
1 / 4 categories
Performance
Tied
Fuel Economy
Tied
Value
Niro
Practicality
Sportage
Pros & Cons
KIA Niro
Lower starting price ($29,890)
Few notable weaknesses
KIA Sportage
Well-rounded specification
Higher starting price
Frequently Asked Questions
Which has more power, the Niro or Sportage?
The Niro produces 139hp @ 5700 and 195lb-ft of torque while the Sportage delivers 187hp @ 6100 and 178lb-ft @ 4000 of torque. They produce similar power outputs.
What is the price difference between the Niro and Sportage?
The Niro starts from $29,890 and the Sportage from $34,290. The Niro is cheaper by $4,400 at this variant level. Final on-the-road pricing varies by dealer and specification.
Which has a higher towing capacity, the Niro or Sportage?
The Niro has a braked towing capacity of not specified and the Sportage can tow 1653lbs. Always verify towing limits in the owner's manual before hitching a trailer.
Should I buy the Niro or the Sportage?
It depends on your priorities. If fuel economy matters most, check the mpg figures above. If you need towing capacity, compare the towing ratings. For day-to-day driving - commutes, school runs and highway trips - consider ground clearance, service network coverage, and total cost of ownership including insurance and maintenance. Use the spec tables above to compare every detail before making your decision.