This compact SUV from Kia
is soon approaching its 30th anniversary. The South Korean automaker has clearly established itself within the segment, and relies on different trim offerings in order to set itself apart from the competition. Now, those who prefer a darker aesthetic will want to check out the 2022 Kia Sportage Nightfall. While pricing for a base model LX starts at $25,305, the Nightfall costs an additional $4,000. A closer look at the features will help potential car buyers determine whether the upgrade is worth the investment.
An overview of the Kia Sportage
It’s a crossover with room for five passengers. Although it’s built to appeal to the mass market, critics have compared the interior to those of luxury brands like Audi. The Kia Sportage clearly places an importance on premium materials and comfortability.
As expected, Car and Driver
does confirm that the roomy interior cuts into valuable cargo space. This is an area where the competition has a clear advantage, in addition to fuel efficiency, which is better in the Mazda CX-5 and Honda CR-V. Power comes from a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine. The 181 hp is satisfactory, but can be boosted to 237 hp with a turbocharged 2.0-liter instead. However, the latter is only available on the top-of-the-line trim. The transmission is a six-speed automatic, according to Edmunds
. MORE: Which Is Better, the Honda CR-V or the Mazda CX-5?
What sets the Nightfall trim apart?
The 2022 Kia Sportage Nightfall is one of four trim options, and replaces the S trim level from previous model years. It’s front-wheel drive, but for an additional $1,500, buyers can opt for all-wheel drive instead. Expect speed to be slightly compromised.
This SUV earned a Top Safety Pick for 2021, as relayed by Safford Kia
. This is due to an abundance of driver-assistance features like forward-collision avoidance, pedestrian detection, driver attention warning, lane-keeping, and high beam assist. The Nightfall adds blind-spot and rear cross-traffic collision warning to the mix. Its design carries Piano Black elements throughout the exterior and interior. This encompasses everything from the roof rails, to special badging, bumper trim, side sills, skid plates, fog light and window surrounds. Other interesting features include the panoramic sunroof with power sunshade, flat-bottom steering wheel with paddle shifters, and SynTex seating materials.
Kia Delray
highlights further upgrades you can make to the 2022 Kia Sportage Nightfall with its Premium package. Owners can pay an extra $2,000 to add heated front seats, power liftgate, Smart Key with push-button start, leather steering wheel and shift knob.MORE: This Car Is the Most Affordable Compact SUV of 2021
Insuring the 2022 Kia Sportage Nightfall
Interested buyers have an opportunity to really elevate the look of this compact SUV. Keep in mind that the interior on the base model Sportage is already of premium quality. For a similar price tag, critics recommend the EX trim since it offers the best combination of value for included features.
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