2026 Kia Sportage Engine Specs & Towing in Merrillville, IN

2026 Kia Sportage Engine Specifications

Designed to provide capability for road trips, everyday trips, and memory-filled excursions of the beaten path, the 2026 Kia Sportage delivers its power with a 2.5L inline four-cylinder (I4) engine. Completing the powertrain, each Sportage gets an eight-speed automatic transmission and either front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD). The Sportage engine makes 187 horsepower and 178 pound-feet of torque, and can achieve up to 33 highway MPG.

Notable characteristics:

• Included as standard equipment with every 2026 Kia Sportage
• Creates balanced horsepower and torque
• Remains unchanged from the 2025 model year
• Offers strong fuel economy estimates with either FWD or AWD
• Paired with a smooth-shifting eight-speed automatic transmission
• Provides up to 400 miles of EPA-estimated range with FWD
• Includes standard drive modes: normal, sport, and MyDrive
• Offers available AWD multi-terrain modes: snow, mud, and sand

What are the 2026 Kia Sportage horsepower, torque, and fuel economy specifications?

2026 Kia Sportage Engine & Drivetrain Model Availability

Every 2026 Kia Sportage trim level is equipped with the 2.5L I4 engine. However, drivetrain availability varies by the trim you pick. The entry-level LX, mid-range EX, and SX Prestige pair with either FWD or AWD. The sporty SX is equipped with FWD only, and the rugged X-Line and X-Pro Prestige trims underscore their all-terrain capabilities with standard AWD.

Which powertrain combinations are available with each 2026 Kia Sportage trim?

2.5L I4 engine with FWD or AWD

• LX
• EX
• SX Prestige

2.5L I4 engine with FWD only

• SX

2.5L I4 engine with AWD only

• X-Line
• X-Pro Prestige

How Much Can a Kia Sportage Tow?

Utilize the responsive power of the 2026 Kia Sportage to tow light trailers or boats. The maximum towing capacity of the Sportage will ultimately come down to whether or not the trailer you are towing is equipped with trailer brakes. With trailer brakes equipped, the Sportage can tow up to 2,500 pounds.

What is the maximum 2026 Kia Sportage towing capacity?

Learn More About the Kia Sportage

While the Sportage engine sets the course for everything you do in this impressive two-row SUV, there is much more to consider. Explore the top features, colors, and options with our collection of Sportage research guides and resources. For direct answers to any of your Sportage questions, contact a Southlake Kia representative online or by calling (219) 947-1500.

Sportage review

Sportage trims

Sportage interior

There’s no better way to learn more about the Sportage than to drive one. Set up a test drive with your favorite Sportage for sale at our dealership in Merrillville, IN.