This page covers 2 recalls, 144 owner complaints, NHTSA crash-test ratings and EPA fuel economy for the 2015 Kia Sportage.
21–23 mpg combined
10.2–11.2 L/100km
Small Sport Utility Vehicle 2WD
Fuel economy data from fueleconomy.gov (EPA / U.S. Dept. of Energy). Annual cost based on 15,000 mi/yr at 55% city driving and current fuel prices. MPG is U.S. gallons; L/100km converted. Ranges reflect the 4 tested variants for this model year.
4/5 Overall
NHTSA 5-Star Safety Rating
The dominant pattern in 2015 Kia Sportage complaints centers on the engine, which draws more than a third of all reports. Owners frequently describe sudden engine failure while driving, the vehicle loses power without warning, often requiring a tow. A recurring sub-theme involves rod bearing failure and internal engine noise, with many owners also reporting oil leaks and oil consumption that preceded the failure. Several owners mention the engine dying on the highway with no prior symptoms. The second most-reported system is hydraulic brakes, where owners describe reduced stopping performance and brake-related concerns, though the reports here are less consistent in describing a single failure mode. Fuel and propulsion issues account for a smaller cluster of reports. The engine complaints are the clear standout, with sudden loss of power while driving being the most commonly described experience across multiple reports.
144
Total Complaints
7
Crash-Related
10
Fire-Related
4
With Injuries
By System
The 2015 Kia Sportage has two recalls, both involving fire risk: one where the anti-lock brake control module can short-circuit and ignite a fire in the engine compartment, and one where a fuel leak on vehicles that previously received an engine replacement can catch fire near an ignition source.
The brake module fire risk can occur whether the vehicle is parked or being driven. The fuel leak concern applies only to vehicles that received a prior engine replacement under a previous recall or warranty repair, meaning an earlier service did not fully resolve the underlying issue and leaves those engines at risk of leaking fuel.
At a glance
What can fail
The Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit module can malfunction and cause an electrical short in the engine compartment, potentially resulting in fire.
What the fix does
Dealers will install a new fuse for the HECU circuit board at no cost to you.
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Ratings from NHTSA's New Car Assessment Program (NCAP). Based on 2 tested variants; worst-case ratings shown.
Complaints are owner-reported and reflect individual experiences, not confirmed defects. They are distinct from recalls. Data sourced from the national vehicle safety complaint database. See trending complaints →
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The high pressure fuel pipe connecting to the fuel pump may have been damaged, misaligned, or improperly torqued during a previous engine replacement, causing potential fuel leaks.
What the fix does
Dealers will inspect and replace the fuel pipe as needed at no charge.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
