2013 Kia Sportage: What's New, Specs & Features

Last updated August 4, 2026

The most important change for the 2013 Kia Sportage is that EX and SX trims gain a standard rearview camera. This is otherwise a light update, with small styling and convenience upgrades but no redesign or powertrain changes.

0 in stock at Carvana

About the 2013 Kia Sportage

3rd generation (2011-2016), third model year, pre-2014 refresh.

Kia positions the 2013 Sportage as a compact crossover for shoppers who want sharper styling and a more eager driving feel than the typical small SUV, without giving up everyday usefulness. The big selling points are its bold design, solid feature content, available turbo power on SX, and a value-focused mix of comfort, technology, and fuel economy. It is the Sportage for buyers who want a practical five-seat SUV that looks and feels less plain than many rivals.

The 2013 Sportage lineup ranges from a simple base model with a manual transmission to the comfort-focused EX with touchscreen infotainment and dual-zone climate control. The SX is the performance version, pairing a turbocharged engine and sport-tuned suspension with leather seating and push-button start.

What changed, by category

Styling

Kia revised the badges on the hood, liftgate, and steering wheel. LX and EX trims gain LED accent lighting, while the SX keeps its distinct LED lighting and sportier exterior treatment.

Safety

A rearview camera changes from optional to standard on EX and SX trims.

Tech and convenience

Every trim gains a sun visor extender. The SX also gains standard power-folding mirrors and a standard power driver’s seat.

2013 Kia Sportage specs and features by trim

Feature	2013 Kia SportageEX0 in stock	2013 Kia SportageLX0 in stock	2013 Kia SportageSX0 in stock	2013 Kia SportageBase0 in stock
Engine	4-Cyl, 2.4 Liter	4-Cyl, 2.4 Liter	4-Cyl, Turbo, 2.0 Liter	4-Cyl, 2.4 Liter
Transmission	Auto, 6-Spd w/Sportmatic	Auto, 6-Spd w/Sportmatic	Auto, 6-Spd w/Sportmatic	Manual, 6-Spd
Drivetrain	2WD	2WD	AWD	2WD
Fuel Type	Gas	Gas	Gas	Gas
MPG City	21 mpg	21 mpg	21 mpg	20 mpg
MPG Highway	30 mpg	30 mpg	28 mpg	27 mpg
Horsepower	176 hp	176 hp	260 hp	176 hp
Torque	168 lb-ft	168 lb-ft	269 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
Safety & Security
Alarm System
Automatic Headlights
Rear Parking Sensors
Rear View Camera
Exterior Features
Alloy Wheels
Fog Lights
Heated Mirrors
LED Daytime Running Lights
Panorama Moon Roof
Power Folding Exterior Mirrors
Privacy Glass
Rear Spoiler
Roof Rails
Trailer Hitch Receiver
Entertainment & Electronics
Bluetooth
Navigation System
Satellite Radio
Subwoofer
USB Ports
Comfort & Convenience
Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror
Cooled Seats
Dual-Zone Climate Control
Folding Rear Seat
Heated Front Seats
Integrated Garage Door Opener
Leather Seats
Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel
Power Driver Seat
Proximity Keyless Entry
Push-Button Engine Start
Remote Start
Remote Keyless Entry
Tilt Wheel
Tilt/Telescoping Steering Wheel

How the 2014 Kia Sportage compares

The 2014 Kia Sportage gets a mild mid-cycle refresh led by a stronger 2.4-liter direct-injected engine for the LX and EX. It also receives revised styling, updated ride hardware, and broader comfort upgrades.

See the full 2014 changes

Frequently asked questions

Is the 2013 Kia Sportage a redesign?

No. The 2013 Sportage is a light update to the existing third-generation model, not a redesign. Its engines, transmissions, core safety hardware, and basic structure carry over.

What is the biggest difference between the 2013 and 2012 Kia Sportage?

The clearest practical difference is that the 2013 EX and SX have a standard rearview camera rather than offering it as an option. The other updates are modest equipment and appearance changes.

Did the 2013 Kia Sportage get a new engine or transmission?

No. The 2013 Sportage carries over its engines and transmissions. Most trims use a 2.4-liter four-cylinder, while the SX retains its turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder and six-speed automatic.

Which 2013 Kia Sportage trims have a standard rearview camera?

The 2013 Sportage EX and SX have a standard rearview camera. It changed from optional to standard on both trims for this model year.

What equipment did the 2013 Kia Sportage SX gain?

The 2013 Sportage SX gains a standard rearview camera, power driver’s seat, and power-folding mirrors. It also receives the lineup-wide revised badging and sun visor extender.