TALKING CARS 372: DRIVING THE 2023 KIA SPORTAGE HYBRID

Plus, how significant are the benefits of all-wheel drive?

By Jen Stockburger

Main theme: This week we share our test results on the 2023 Kia Sportage Hybrid. Previous testing revealed that the non-hybrid 2023 Sportage was “long on style and room, short on verve.” Does this hybrid version address the lackluster performance of the non-hybrid powertrain, while at the same time providing a hybrid’s benefit in fuel economy? We also discuss whether the small-SUV segment is particularly suited to the benefits that hybridization sometimes brings.

Audience question: Is all-wheel drive (AWD) a real safety benefit or just overhyped? 

“Talking Cars” panelists Gabe Shenhar, Jen Stockburger, and Keith Barry.

Photo: Consumer Reports

As with other “Talking Cars” episodes, this one is available free through Apple Podcasts. (Subscribe to the audio or video.) You’ll also find the audio on Spotify (log-in required) and video on YouTube.

• Driving the 2022 Mazda MX-30, episode 371
• Driving the Mercedes-Benz EQS 580, episode 370
• Driving the Polaris Slingshot, episode 369
• Driving the Toyota bZ4X, episode 368
• Driving the 2023 Acura Integra, episode 367

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