2011 Kia Sportage: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2011 Kia Sportage was fully redesigned, marking the start of its third generation on an all-new platform. The major overhaul brought a new body and cabin, new engines and transmissions, and a new all-wheel-drive system.
About the 2011 Kia Sportage
3rd generation, first year of the redesign (2011-2016).
Kia positioned the 2011 Sportage as a style-forward compact crossover that mixed everyday usefulness with a much bolder look than many rivals. The brand emphasized sharp design, a modern cabin, useful standard tech, and strong value, while still offering available all-wheel drive and, later, a turbo performance model. For most shoppers, the Sportage’s appeal was that it felt more expressive and more upscale-looking than a typical small SUV without giving up basic family-duty practicality.
The base and LX trims cover the everyday basics, with Bluetooth, USB and auxiliary inputs, while the EX adds comfort features such as dual-zone climate control and a power driver's seat. Added later in the model year, the new SX gives the Sportage a more performance-focused character with a turbocharged engine, firmer suspension, dual exhaust outlets, and unique trim.
What changed, by category
2011 Kia Sportage specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, 2.4 Liter | 4-Cyl, 2.4 Liter | 4-Cyl, Turbo, 2.0 Liter | 4-Cyl, 2.4 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 6-Spd w/Overdrive & Sportmatic | Automatic, 6-Spd w/Overdrive & Sportmatic | Automatic, 6-Spd w/Overdrive & Sportmatic | Manual, 6-Spd w/Overdrive |
| Drivetrain | 2WD | 2WD | AWD | 2WD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 22 mpg | 22 mpg | 21 mpg | 21 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 31 mpg | 31 mpg | 28 mpg | 29 mpg |
| Horsepower | 170 hp | 170 hp | 256 hp | 176 hp |
| Torque | 163 lb-ft | 163 lb-ft | 264 lb-ft | 168 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 2000 lb | 2000 lb | 2000 lb | 2000 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 54.6 cu-ft | 54.6 cu-ft | 54.6 cu-ft | 54.6 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 37.9 in | 37.9 in | 37.9 in | 37.9 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Alarm System | ||||
| Automatic Headlights | ||||
| Rear Parking Sensors | ||||
| Rear View Camera | ||||
| Alloy Wheels | ||||
| Fog Lights | ||||
| Heated Mirrors | ||||
| LED Daytime Running Lights | ||||
| Privacy Glass | ||||
| Rear Spoiler | ||||
| Roof Rails | ||||
| Trailer Hitch Receiver | ||||
| Bluetooth | ||||
| Navigation System | ||||
| Premium Audio | ||||
| Satellite Radio | ||||
| USB Ports | ||||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | ||||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | ||||
| Integrated Garage Door Opener | ||||
| Leather Seats | ||||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | ||||
| Power Driver Seat | ||||
| Power Folding Rear Seat | ||||
| Push-Button Engine Start | ||||
| Remote Keyless Entry | ||||
| Tilt Wheel | ||||
| Tilt/Telescoping Steering Wheel | ||||
Frequently asked questions
Was the 2011 Kia Sportage fully redesigned?
Yes. The 2011 Kia Sportage began its third generation with an all-new platform, a completely redesigned body and cabin, new engines and transmissions, and a new all-wheel-drive system.
What engines does the 2011 Kia Sportage have?
The 2011 Sportage uses a 2.4-liter four-cylinder in the base, LX, and EX trims. The SX, added later in the model year, has a stronger 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder.
Was the SX trim new for the 2011 Kia Sportage?
Yes. Kia added the Sportage SX later in the 2011 model year with a turbocharged engine, a sport-tuned suspension, dual exhaust outlets, and SX-specific styling details.
Does every 2011 Kia Sportage have an automatic transmission?
No. The base 2011 Sportage has a six-speed manual transmission, while the LX, EX, and turbocharged SX use a six-speed automatic.
What safety equipment changed on the 2011 Kia Sportage?
Hill-start assist and downhill brake control became standard on every 2011 Sportage. Hill-start assist helps keep the vehicle from rolling backward on an incline, while downhill brake control helps manage speed on steep descents.