The Kia Sportage III (facelift, introduced in 2014) 2.0 CRDi 4WD Automatic represents a significant iteration of Kia’s popular compact SUV. Produced from 2014 to 2016, this variant occupied a mid-to-upper position within the Sportage III range, offering a blend of performance, practicality, and all-weather capability. It was primarily marketed towards buyers seeking a versatile family vehicle with the added security of a four-wheel-drive system and the convenience of an automatic transmission. This model was a key component of Kia’s strategy to establish itself as a mainstream automotive brand, offering a compelling alternative to established Japanese and European competitors.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Kia |
| Model | Sportage |
| Generation | Sportage III (facelift, 2014) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 CRDi (184 Hp) 4WD Automatic |
| Start of production | 2014 |
| End of production | 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9.1 l/100 km (25.8 US mpg, 31 UK mpg, 11 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.1 l/100 km (38.6 US mpg, 46.3 UK mpg, 16.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.2 l/100 km (32.7 US mpg, 39.2 UK mpg, 13.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 189 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 195 km/h (121.17 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.1 kg/Hp, 109.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.3 kg/Nm, 233.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 184 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Torque | 392 Nm @ 1800-2500 rpm (289.12 lb.-ft. @ 1800-2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | D4HA |
| Engine displacement | 1995 cm3 (121.74 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 90 mm (3.54 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8.5 l (8.98 US qt | 7.48 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1676 kg (3694.95 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2140 kg (4717.89 lbs.) |
| Max load | 464 kg (1022.94 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 564 l (19.92 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1353 l (47.78 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 58 l (15.32 US gal | 12.76 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1600 kg (3527.4 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4440 mm (174.8 in.) |
| Width | 1855 mm (73.03 in.) |
| Height | 1635 mm (64.37 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2640 mm (103.94 in.) |
| Front track | 1600 mm (62.99 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1601 mm (63.03 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 172 mm (6.77 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.37 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.58 m (34.71 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 22.7° |
| Departure angle | 28.2° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 17.7° |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the 2014-2016 Kia Sportage III 2.0 CRDi 4WD Automatic lies the D4HA engine, a 1995cc inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine utilizes a second-generation common-rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressures for optimized combustion. A turbocharger with an intercooler further enhances performance, boosting power output to 184 horsepower at 4000 rpm and 392 Nm (289 lb-ft) of torque between 1800 and 2500 rpm. The engine features a cast iron block and aluminum cylinder head, contributing to its durability. The automatic transmission is a conventional six-speed unit, chosen for its smooth operation and ease of use. While not offering the lightning-fast shifts of some dual-clutch transmissions, it provides a comfortable driving experience, particularly in urban environments.
Driving Characteristics
The 184 hp 2.0 CRDi engine, paired with the six-speed automatic, delivers adequate performance for everyday driving. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes approximately 9.3 seconds, and the top speed is around 121 mph. The automatic transmission is tuned for fuel efficiency and smooth transitions, rather than outright sportiness. Compared to the manual transmission version of the same engine, the automatic feels slightly less responsive, particularly during quick overtaking maneuvers. However, the all-wheel-drive system provides enhanced traction and stability, especially on slippery surfaces. The gear ratios are optimized for cruising, making it a comfortable long-distance vehicle.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0 CRDi 4WD Automatic trim typically included features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, a touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, and alloy wheels. Higher trim levels added features like leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, heated front seats, and a rear parking camera. Safety features included ABS, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), and multiple airbags. The Sportage III offered a good level of standard equipment for its price point, making it an attractive option for families.
Chassis & Braking
The Sportage III utilizes a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable ride quality. The all-wheel-drive system employs a dynamic torque distribution system, automatically adjusting the power split between the front and rear axles based on road conditions. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. The braking system is assisted by ABS and ESC, enhancing safety and control.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Kia Sportage III (facelift) 2.0 CRDi 4WD Automatic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and generous equipment levels. The diesel engine was noted for its fuel efficiency and strong torque output. However, some reviewers found the automatic transmission to be somewhat sluggish and the handling less engaging than some of its rivals. Compared to other trims in the Sportage lineup, the 2.0 CRDi Automatic offered a good balance of performance and fuel economy, making it a popular choice for buyers who prioritized practicality and comfort.
Legacy
The D4HA engine, when properly maintained, has proven to be a relatively reliable unit. Common issues include diesel particulate filter (DPF) clogging and occasional turbocharger problems, but these are typically addressed with regular servicing. The six-speed automatic transmission is also generally durable. Today, used examples of the 2014-2016 Kia Sportage III 2.0 CRDi 4WD Automatic represent good value for money, offering a practical and well-equipped SUV at an affordable price. Its blend of fuel efficiency, all-wheel-drive capability, and comfortable ride continues to appeal to a wide range of buyers.
