Hyundai ix35 vs Kia Sportage
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular SUVs compare on price, running costs, safety, and everyday livability.
Specifications and pricing correct at time of publishing. Prices are RRP before on-road costs unless stated otherwise. Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before purchasing.
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Price Breakdown
Pricing for one or both models is yet to be confirmed for the Australian market. We will update this comparison when official RRPs are announced.
Safety Rundown
Both the Hyundai ix35 and Kia Sportage hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. We can confirm 5 of 10 key ADAS systems on the Kia Sportage, against 0 on the Hyundai ix35.
Both include the essentials: a reversing camera. Airbag count is 6 in the Hyundai ix35 and 7 in the Kia Sportage.
Feature Showdown
Both come with modern infotainment systems.
The Hyundai ix35 stands out with panoramic roof and heated front seats — features our data doesn't list for the Kia Sportage. The Kia Sportage counters with Apple CarPlay. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The Hyundai ix35 lines up producing 135kW and 392Nm of torque, sent through a 6-speed automatic with electronic sequential manual mode to a AWD layout.
The Kia Sportage responds with a Petrol making 115kW and 192Nm, paired to a automatic driving the front wheels.
The Hyundai ix35 has the clear power advantage at 135kW vs 115kW. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Hyundai ix35 measures 4,410mm long on a 2,640mm wheelbase, 275mm shorter than the Kia Sportage at 4,685mm (2,755mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Kia Sportage generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 730L in the Hyundai ix35 and 543L in the Kia Sportage, giving the Hyundai ix35 a 187L advantage.
For towing, the Kia Sportage leads with a 1,650kg braked capacity vs 1,600kg. That 50kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
10.6m to 11.4m
Based on 10.6m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 11.4m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
Compare U-turns side by side
Turning Circle · U-turn compare
kerb-to-kerb, 2 cars0 of 2 clear a 7.0 m street in one sweep
Green cars complete the U-turn; amber need a 3-point turn. Drag the slider to test tighter streets.
Standard widths: AU local streets ~5.5–7 m; main roads ~9–12 m.
True Cost to Own
Based on 15,000km of annual driving, fuel costs roughly $2,052/year for the Hyundai ix35 and $2,309/year for the Kia Sportage. That is a $257 annual difference in favour of the Hyundai ix35.
Warranty: 5 years (Hyundai ix35) vs 7 years / 999,999km (Kia Sportage). The Kia Sportage has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Hyundai ix35 if: You prioritise performance, need more boot space, want lower running costs, or prefer Hyundai's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Kia Sportage if: You value a longer warranty, need stronger towing, or prefer Kia's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Hyundai ix35 takes 3 of 5 key spec categories. The Hyundai ix35 will save you roughly $257 a year in fuel. If boot space matters, the Hyundai ix35 has a clear edge. The Kia Sportage adds peace of mind with a longer 7-year warranty. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, Hyundai ix35 and Kia Sportage?
The Kia Sportage is the cheapest at $38,490 before on-road costs.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The Hyundai ix35 uses the least fuel at 7.2L/100km on the combined cycle.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched on crash rating: Hyundai ix35 and Kia Sportage all hold a 5-star ANCAP rating. Compare the active-safety features above to separate them.
Which has the most boot space?
The Hyundai ix35 has the largest boot at 730L.
Which can tow the most?
The Kia Sportage has the highest braked towing capacity at 1,650kg.
Which has the best warranty?
The Kia Sportage has the longest warranty at 7 years / Unlimited.
Which is the most powerful?
The Hyundai ix35 makes the most power at 135kW.
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Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (20 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Auto-generated from CarSorted's specification data · 20 April 2026
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