2026 Kia Sportage & 2026 Toyota RAV4 Comparison
The 2026 Kia Sportage and the 2026 Toyota RAV4 are two popular compact SUVs that offer great features and performance for daily driving. While we will compare the differences between these two models, you will find the Kia Sportage offers additional features, interior space, powertrain options, and a longer factory powertrain warranty. Our goal is to help you make an informed decision. When you’re ready to take the next step, you can explore our great selection of new Kia Sportage models at Cable Dahmer Kia of Lee’s Summit.
Starting MSRP
2026 Kia Sportage
$28,790 starting MSRP*
2026 Toyota RAV4
$31,900 starting MSRP*
Powertrain Options & Performance
While the 2026 Toyota RAV4 has transitioned to a hybrid lineup, the 2026 Kia Sportage continues to offer three distinct engine options. The Sportage offers a 2.5L gas engine for those seeking a lower starting price, alongside Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid options. Both models offer front-wheel drive and available all-wheel drive.
| Powertrain Type | 2026 Kia Sportage | 2026 Toyota RAV4 |
|---|---|---|
| Gas Engine |
2.5L 4-Cylinder
187 hp FWD / Available AWD |
Not Available |
| Hybrid |
1.6L Turbocharged 4-cylinder
231 hp FWD / Available AWD |
2.5L Hybrid
236 hp FWD / Available AWD |
| Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV) |
1.6L Turbocharged 4-cylinder
268 combined hp AWD |
2.5L Plug-In Hybrid
320 combined hp AWD |
Interior Dimensions
The Kia Sportage is designed with a longer wheelbase, translating directly into a more comfortable and capable cabin.
Class-Leading Legroom: The Sportage offers a massive 41.3 inches of rear legroom, beating the RAV4’s 37.8 inches by a significant margin. Your adult passengers will notice the difference.
Superior Cargo Space: With 39.6 cu. ft. of space behind the second row (expanding to 74.1 cu. ft. with seats folded), the Sportage provides more room for gear, groceries, and luggage than the RAV4’s 37.8 / 69.8 cu. ft. capacity.
Technology
The 2026 Kia Sportage features a modern interior design that outpaces the RAV4 in both screen real estate and driver-assist technology.
Dual Panoramic Displays: The Sportage offers a stunning, seamless curved display that integrates two 12.3-inch screens for a total of 24 inches of high-resolution digital surface.
Exclusive Safety Tech: The Sportage includes Blind-Spot View Monitor, on select models, which projects a live video feed of your adjacent lanes directly into the instrument cluster when you activate your turn signal, a feature not available on the RAV4.
Powertrain Warranty
When it comes to long-term peace of mind, the Kia Sportage provides nearly double the protection of the Toyota RAV4.
Every new Kia Sportage is backed by Kia’s leading 10-Year / 100,000-Mile Limited Powertrain Warranty.
The Toyota RAV4 only offers a 5-Year / 60,000-Mile powertrain warranty, leaving you responsible for major components much sooner than with a Kia.
Why We Recommend the Kia Sportage Over the Toyota RAV4
It’s clear the 2026 Kia Sportage offers more of what drivers need compared to the RAV4. More interior space, more included technology, and significantly better long-term protection. Here is why the Sportage is the smart choice:
Better Starting Price: With a starting MSRP of $28,790*, the Sportage starts $3,000 less than the base RAV4.
Industry-Leading Warranty: You get Kia’s 10-Year/100,000-Mile Powertrain Warranty, compared to Toyota’s 5-Year/60,000-Mile coverage.
More Interior Room: Rear passengers enjoy 41.3 inches of legroom, nearly four inches more than the RAV4. Cargo capacity is also superior, with up to 74.1 cu. ft. of total space compared to the RAV4’s 69.8 cu. ft.
Larger Display Screens: The Dual Panoramic Display delivers a seamless 24-inch curved interface that makes the RAV4’s traditional dashboard feel a generation behind.
More Engine Options: Unlike the RAV4’s all-hybrid lineup, the Sportage still offers a traditional gas engine for a lower entry price, along with Hybrid and Plug-In Hybrid options.
The 2026 Kia Sportage delivers a more premium interior, more advanced technology, and a stronger warranty at a lower starting price. For drivers comparing these two popular SUVs, the Sportage is the clear winner.
Find a new 2026 Kia Sportage at Cable Dahmer Kia of Lee's Summit
The 2026 Kia Sportage delivers an impressive combination of space, technology, performance, and value that makes it a great choice in the competitive compact SUV segment. With class-leading rear legroom, generous cargo capacity, industry-leading warranty coverage, and advanced hybrid powertrains, the Sportage provides everything you need for daily driving, weekend adventures, and everything in between.
At Cable Dahmer Kia of Lee's Summit, our team is here to help. Whether you are comparing the Sportage to the RAV4 or other competitors, we believe the best way to make an informed decision is to get behind the wheel and see which vehicle feels right for your lifestyle. View our new Kia Sportage lineup and schedule a test drive today.
Starting MSRP price is manufacturer's suggested retail price. MSRP excludes destination and handling charges, taxes, title, license, registration, options, and dealer charges. Actual price available to you at the time of purchase is set by the dealer and may vary. Vehicles may be shown with optional equipment.
Warranties include 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain and 5-year/60,000-mile basic. All warranties and roadside assistance are limited. See retailer for warranty details.