@ Kia Corporation
@ Škoda Auto a.s. / Škoda Storyboard
VS

Kia Sportage vs Skoda Karoq – Which one offers the better deal?

Everyday use, family trips or long-distance drives – here’s where the differences show.
Discover whether Kia Sportage or Skoda Karoq fits your lifestyle better.

Sportage @ Kia Corporation

Introduction

In the highly competitive compact SUV segment, two vehicles are making waves: the Kia Sportage and the Skoda Karoq. Both models boast advanced technology, impressive design, and a range of engine options tailored to meet diverse driving needs. This article compares these two popular models, focusing on their technical specifications, performance, and innovative features to help buyers make an informed decision.

Karoq @ Škoda Auto a.s. / Škoda Storyboard

Design and Dimensions

The Kia Sportage measures 4,515 mm in length, 1,865 mm in width, and 1,650 mm in height, giving it a robust and modern stance on the road. In contrast, the Skoda Karoq is slightly more compact, at 4,390 mm long and 1,841 mm wide, with a height ranging from 1,603 mm to 1,624 mm depending on the variant.

Both SUVs offer a five-door configuration with ample space for passengers. The Sportage provides a trunk capacity that varies between 526 to 587 liters, while the Karoq offers a slightly smaller trunk at 521 liters, showcasing practical storage options in both models.

Sportage @ Kia Corporation

Powertrains and Performance

The Kia Sportage offers a diverse range of engine options, including Diesel MHEV, Petrol MHEV, Full Hybrid, Petrol, and Plugin Hybrid configurations. Power output ranges from a respectable 136 HP to an impressive 252 HP. The Sportage's acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h can be achieved in as little as 8.3 seconds, demonstrating its sporty potential.

Meanwhile, the Skoda Karoq offers a choice between petrol and diesel engines with power outputs from 115 HP to 190 HP. While slightly less powerful than the Sportage, the Karoq still delivers commendable performance, with the 0-100 km/h time as low as 7 seconds. Both models come with the option of both manual and automatic transmissions, catering to various driving preferences.

Karoq @ Škoda Auto a.s. / Škoda Storyboard

Fuel Efficiency and Environment

Fuel efficiency is a critical factor for most SUV buyers, and both the Sportage and Karoq have made significant strides in this area. The Sportage boasts fuel consumption figures ranging from 5.0 to 7.2 L/100 km, with variants that can achieve remarkable electric ranges of up to 64 km in hybrid trims. The Karoq, on the other hand, provides slightly less efficiency, with figures from 4.9 to 7.6 L/100 km across its engine lineup.

Both vehicles also feature competitive CO2 emissions rates, making them attractive options for environmentally conscious consumers. The Sportage's emissions vary between 135 to 162 g/km, while the Karoq maintains a slightly better range between 129 to 174 g/km, depending on the engine choice.

Sportage @ Kia Corporation

Technology and Innovations

When it comes to technology, both models are equipped with features designed to enhance the driving experience and safety. The Kia Sportage includes advanced driver assistance systems, a user-friendly infotainment system with a touchscreen interface, and connectivity features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

The Skoda Karoq, famous for its practical and intuitive interior layout, also offers a comprehensive infotainment system, alongside a range of driver aids such as adaptive cruise control, lane assist, and parking sensors. Skoda’s Clever Storage solutions in the Karoq add to its appeal, ensuring that everyday items have designated places within the cabin.

Karoq @ Škoda Auto a.s. / Škoda Storyboard

Conclusion

In conclusion, both the Kia Sportage and Skoda Karoq offer a compelling blend of performance, efficiency, and technology that make them strong contenders in the compact SUV market. The Sportage stands out for its extensive range of powertrains and impressive hybrid options, while the Karoq excels with its practical design and innovative storage solutions. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences—be it the Sportage’s versatile power options or the Karoq’s user-friendly technology and design prowess. Regardless of your choice, both vehicles promise an engaging driving experience and modern conveniences tailored for today’s consumers.

Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

Sportage @ Kia Corporation

Costs and Efficiency:

Price and efficiency are key factors when choosing a car – and this is often where the real differences emerge.

Skoda Karoq has a minimal advantage in terms of price – it starts at 29100 £, while the Kia Sportage costs 29700 £. That’s a price difference of around 652 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: Kia Sportage manages with 1.20 L and is therefore clearly more efficient than the Skoda Karoq with 4.90 L. The difference is about 3.70 L per 100 km.

Karoq @ Škoda Auto a.s. / Škoda Storyboard

Engine and Performance:

Power, torque and acceleration are the classic benchmarks for car enthusiasts – and here, some clear differences start to show.

When it comes to engine power, the Kia Sportage has a distinct edge – offering 252 HP compared to 190 HP. That’s roughly 62 HP more horsepower.

In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the Skoda Karoq is a bit quicker – completing the sprint in 7 s, while the Kia Sportage takes 7.90 s. That’s about 0.90 s faster.

In terms of top speed, the Skoda Karoq performs minimal better – reaching 221 km/h, while the Kia Sportage tops out at 203 km/h. The difference is around 18 km/h.

There’s also a difference in torque: Skoda Karoq pulls slight stronger with 360 Nm compared to 350 Nm. That’s about 10 Nm difference.

Space and Everyday Use:

Beyond pure performance, interior space and usability matter most in daily life. This is where you see which car is more practical and versatile.

Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.

In curb weight, Skoda Karoq is a bit lighter – 1380 kg compared to 1526 kg. The difference is around 146 kg.

In terms of boot space, the Kia Sportage offers to a small extent more room – 587 L compared to 521 L. That’s a difference of about 66 L.

In maximum load capacity, the Kia Sportage performs minimal better – up to 1776 L, which is about 146 L more than the Skoda Karoq.

When it comes to payload, Kia Sportage hardly perceptible takes the win – 580 kg compared to 549 kg. That’s a difference of about 31 kg.

Who wins the race?

The Kia Sportage proves to be is largely superior and therefore becomes our DriveDuel Champion!
Kia Sportage is the better all-rounder in this comparison.

from about £29,700
Sportage @ Kia Corporation

Kia Sportage

  • Engine Type : Diesel MHEV, Petrol MHEV, Full Hybrid, Petrol, Plugin Hybrid
  • Transmission : Manuel, Automatic
  • Drive Type : Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 136 - 252 HP
  • Consumption L/100km : 1.2 - 7.9 L
  • Electric Range : 64 km

Kia Sportage

5 (1)
rate

The Kia Sportage proves you don't have to choose between style and sensible family motoring, wrapping modern, confident looks around a roomy, well-equipped cabin. It's an easy car to live with — comfortable on daily runs, pleasantly engaging when you want a bit of fun, and kind to your wallet so you can keep smiling at the fuel pump.

details

Skoda Karoq

5 (1)
rate

The Skoda Karoq is a smart, unfussy compact SUV that blends roomy practicality with a pleasantly composed driving character. It won’t turn heads at a car meet, but it will make daily life easier with clever storage, sensible ergonomics and a reassuringly grown-up ride.

details
Kia Sportage
Skoda Karoq
Sportage @ Kia Corporation
Karoq @ Škoda Auto a.s. / Škoda Storyboard

Costs and Consumption

Price
29700 - 44700 £
Price
29100 - 41700 £
Consumption L/100km
1.2 - 7.9 L
Consumption L/100km
4.9 - 7.6 L
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Electric Range
64 km
Electric Range
-
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
co2
28 - 180 g/km
co2
128 - 173 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
42 - 54 L
Fuel tank capacity
50 - 55 L

Dimensions and Body

Body Type
SUV
Body Type
SUV
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
5
Doors
5
Curb weight
1526 - 1905 kg
Curb weight
1380 - 1655 kg
Trunk capacity
526 - 587 L
Trunk capacity
521 L
Length
4515 - 4540 mm
Length
4384 - 4390 mm
Width
1865 mm
Width
1841 mm
Height
1645 - 1650 mm
Height
1624 - 1629 mm
Max trunk capacity
1715 - 1776 L
Max trunk capacity
1630 L
Payload
510 - 580 kg
Payload
456 - 549 kg

Engine and Performance

Engine Type
Diesel MHEV, Petrol MHEV, Full Hybrid, Petrol, Plugin Hybrid
Engine Type
Petrol, Diesel
Transmission
Manuel, Automatic
Transmission
Manuel, Automatic
Transmission Detail
Manual Gearbox, Dual-Clutch Automatic, Automatic Gearbox
Transmission Detail
Manual Gearbox, Dual-Clutch Automatic
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Power HP
136 - 252 HP
Power HP
115 - 190 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
7.9 - 11.6 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
7 - 11.2 s
Max Speed
180 - 203 km/h
Max Speed
192 - 221 km/h
Torque
250 - 350 Nm
Torque
200 - 360 Nm
Number of Cylinders
4
Number of Cylinders
3 - 4
Power kW
100 - 185 kW
Power kW
85 - 140 kW
Engine capacity
1598 cm3
Engine capacity
999 - 1984 cm3

General

Model Year
2024 - 2025
Model Year
2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
D, E, F, B, G
CO2 Efficiency Class
D, E, F
Brand
Kia
Brand
Skoda
Is the Kia Sportage offered with different drivetrains?

The Kia Sportage is offered with Front-Wheel Drive or All-Wheel Drive.

The prices and data displayed are estimates based on German list prices and may vary by country. This information is not legally binding.