2009 Kia Sportage: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2009 Kia Sportage received a mild mid-cycle refresh, led by revised front-end styling and standard USB and auxiliary audio inputs. It was not a redesign; the compact two-row layout, engine choices, and front- or four-wheel-drive format remained.
About the 2009 Kia Sportage
2nd gen (2005-2010), facelift year and second-to-last model year before the all-new 2011 redesign.
Kia positioned the Sportage as a value-focused compact SUV that mixed city-friendly size with real usefulness. The brand emphasized standard equipment, a roomy cabin for five, flexible cargo space from the fold-flat rear seat, and strong safety value for the class. Against rivals, the Sportage’s main draw was not outright speed or luxury; it was getting SUV versatility, available V6 power, and a lot of everyday equipment in a straightforward, smaller package.
The 2009 Sportage is a compact two-row SUV offered in LX and more upscale EX forms. LX examples range from basic four-cylinder models to V6 and four-wheel-drive versions, while the EX has a standard V6 and automatic transmission, plus a sunroof, fog lights, heated mirrors, and leather-wrapped controls.
What changed, by category
2009 Kia Sportage specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Engine | V6, 2.7 Liter | 4-Cyl, 2.0 Liter / V6, 2.7 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 4-Spd w/Overdrive & Sportmatic | Automatic, 4-Spd w/Overdrive & Sportmatic |
| Drivetrain | 4WD | 2WD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 18 mpg | 18–20 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 23 mpg | 23–25 mpg |
| Horsepower | 173 hp | 140–173 hp |
| Torque | 178 lb-ft | 136–178 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 2000 lb | 1500 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 66.6 cu-ft | 66.6 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 37.2 in | 37.2 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 |
| Automatic Headlights | ||
| Alloy Wheels | ||
| Fog Lights | ||
| Heated Mirrors | ||
| Heated Windshield | ||
| Power Moonroof | ||
| Rear Spoiler | ||
| Roof Rails | ||
| Navigation System | ||
| Satellite Radio | ||
| Subwoofer | ||
| USB Ports | ||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | ||
| Heated Front Seats | ||
| Integrated Garage Door Opener | ||
| Leather Seats | ||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | ||
| Remote Start | ||
| Tilt Wheel | ||
Frequently asked questions
Was the 2009 Kia Sportage redesigned?
No. The 2009 Sportage received a mild refresh rather than a full redesign. It remained part of the second generation introduced for 2005.
What exterior changes did the 2009 Kia Sportage receive?
The 2009 Sportage received a revised front end with a new grille, new headlamps, updated bumper details, and new wheel designs.
What cabin technology was added to the 2009 Kia Sportage?
The 2009 Sportage gained standard satellite-radio capability, an auxiliary audio input, and a USB port across the lineup.
Did the 2009 Kia Sportage get new engines?
No. The Sportage continued with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder and a 2.7-liter V6. Front-wheel drive and four-wheel drive also remained part of the lineup, while Kia reported improved fuel economy.
Were the LX and EX trims added for the 2009 Kia Sportage?
Yes. The 2009 lineup added the LX and EX trim designations. LX covered the broader range of engine and drivetrain combinations, while EX used the V6 and automatic transmission as standard equipment.