Are the Three Major Components of Kia KX5 and Sportage the Same?
4 Answers
Kia KX5 and Sportage do not share the same three major components, mainly differing in terms of powertrain: Kia KX5 is equipped with two types of engines, one being a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated engine and the other a 1.6-liter turbocharged engine. Kia Sportage also comes with two types of engines, one being a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated engine and the other a 1.4-liter turbocharged engine. Relevant information about the engines is as follows: 1. Introduction: The automobile engine is the device that provides power to the vehicle, serving as the heart of the car, determining its power, fuel economy, stability, and environmental friendliness. 2. Classification: Depending on the power source, automobile engines can be categorized into diesel engines, gasoline engines, electric vehicle motors, and hybrid powertrains, among others.
As a veteran car salesperson, I get this question often. The Kia KX5 and Sportage were indeed sibling models around 2016, sharing the same platform for their three major components. Both used the 2.0L naturally aspirated engine paired with a 6AT transmission, and had similar chassis structures with front MacPherson struts and rear multi-link suspension. However, things changed after the new Sportage launched in 2018 - it was repositioned as an entry-level model using the same platform as Hyundai ix35, equipped with G4NA engine and 6AT, but switched to torsion beam rear suspension. Meanwhile, the KX5 maintained the global Sportage platform, offering 1.6T + 7-speed dual-clutch option while keeping the independent multi-link rear suspension. So the key is checking the model year - same-generation models share core components, but cross-generation comparisons require careful spec sheet review.
As an automotive reviewer, I've disassembled both models. In the early days when the Sportage and KX5 shared platforms, their three major components were essentially identical. Both used the Theta II series engines with 2.0L displacement producing around 141 horsepower, paired with Hyundai Powertech's 6AT transmission. However, after Kia implemented its dual-model strategy, the 2018 Sportage became China-specific, switching to the lower-cost K2 platform with rear suspension downgraded from multi-link to torsion beam. While still 2.0L, the engine model differed. The KX5 continued using the global N3 platform, with the latest version offering a 1.6T + 7DCT powertrain. Driving-wise, the older models had similar chassis damping and steering feel, but the difference became pronounced in newer versions—the Sportage leans toward comfort with more body roll in corners, while the KX5 delivers firmer handling.
Having worked in a repair shop for ten years, I've handled many Kias. The core components of the old Sportage and KX5 are indeed interchangeable. The engines pulled out are all G4NA models, and the transmission oil seals can be swapped. However, after 2018, the new Sportage's chassis became simpler, with the rear axle changed to a non-independent suspension, and the brake calipers are slightly smaller in size. The most noticeable difference is in maintenance: if the KX5 is the 1.6T version, it requires double platinum spark plugs, which cost an extra 200 yuan per replacement, while the Sportage 2.0L uses ordinary nickel alloy ones. The transmission fluid replacement intervals also differ; the KX5's dual-clutch needs changing every 40,000 kilometers, whereas the Sportage's 6AT can last up to 60,000. It's recommended that owners check the parts catalog by VIN for the most accurate information, as the first eight digits of the part numbers are generally consistent for components from the same platform.
