2022 Kia Sportage vs 2022 Genesis GV70

The 2022 Kia Sportage featured a design that was both bold and controversial. Its tiger-nose grille, while successful on other Kia models, seemed out of place on the Sportage, resembling a Halloween costume mustache. Despite this, the SUV boasted impressive design elements, such as the four-dot running lights reminiscent of the Porsche Macan and a symmetrical rear reminiscent of Volkswagen. The Sportage's 19-inch alloy wheels added to its stylish and planted stance. Inside, the Sportage embraced a Germanic design with a black dashboard, polished metallic accents, and straightforward instrumentation. The controls were user-friendly, with buttons and knobs for easy access to the stereo and climate settings, enhancing the upscale feel.

In contrast, the 2022 Genesis GV70 stood out with its distinctive styling, diverging from the rest of the Genesis lineup. It featured the brand's two-line lighting signature, creating a near-continuous circle around the vehicle. The GV70 offered six grades, with the Sport and Sport Plus grades showcasing a sculpted hood and unique accent lines. Dark chrome finishes and a cross-hatched matrix pattern on the Sport grades emphasized its sporty intent. The GV70 allowed for extensive customization with over 100 colour combinations, including exclusive matte paints. Inside, the cabin featured elliptical inserts inspired by airplane wings, with premium materials like quilted leather and carbon fibre available on higher trims.

The 2022 Kia Sportage offered two engine options. Most models came with a 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine producing 181 horsepower and 175 lb-ft of torque. The Sportage SX, however, boasted a more powerful 237 hp engine with 260 lb-ft of torque, making it ideal for those living at higher elevations. Both engines were paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, and the Dynamax all-wheel-drive system was standard on all but the base model. The Sportage SX delivered quick acceleration, though the torque's sudden surge could surprise drivers. The suspension provided a smooth ride, with the SX featuring upgraded brakes and exclusive 19-inch wheels. While fun to drive, the Sportage SX lacked the refinement of competitors like the Mazda CX-5 Turbo.

The 2022 Genesis GV70 offered two engine choices, with the 3.5-litre twin-turbocharged V6 being the standout, producing 375 hp and 391 lb-ft of torque. This engine positioned the GV70 against mid-level performance competitors like the BMW X3 M40i. The GV70 featured an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive, prioritizing the rear axle. The Sport Plus grade included an electronic limited-slip differential for enhanced performance. The GV70 offered multiple drive modes, with Sport+ delivering aggressive throttle response. The electronically controlled suspension system provided a balance between comfort and road feedback. The GV70's tight turning radius was a bonus in urban settings.

The 2022 Kia Sportage, though compact, offered a surprisingly roomy passenger compartment. The SX trim featured perforated leather upholstery with power-adjustable front seats, heated and ventilated options, and a heated steering wheel. Rear passengers enjoyed generous legroom, air conditioning vents, and USB charging ports, with heated seats on the SX grade. Cargo space was limited, with 1,703 litres available with the rear seats folded, falling short of competitors. The smart liftgate technology provided hands-free access, though it could be turned off if not needed.

The 2022 Genesis GV70 prioritized driver-focused design with a tall centre console and intuitive controls. The infotainment system was controlled by a raised dial, and climate controls were streamlined under a single pane. Heated front seats and a heated steering wheel were standard, with ventilated seats available on higher trims. Rear passengers benefited from a panoramic sunroof and manual sunshades, though storage was limited. The GV70 offered 819 litres of cargo space behind the second row, expandable to 1,610 litres with the seats folded. The tonneau cover could be conveniently stowed under the rear load floor.

The 2022 Kia Sportage came equipped with an 8-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, and smartphone connectivity. The SX trim added UVO Intelligence services, satellite radio, wireless charging, and an 8-speaker Harman Kardon audio system. While user-friendly, the system lacked advanced features like a WiFi hotspot and wireless smartphone mirroring.

The 2022 Genesis GV70 excelled in technology with a 14.5-inch high-definition infotainment screen, offering split-screen functionality. The premium Sport Plus grade featured a 3D digital instrument cluster and Blind View Monitor system. A fingerprint recognition system allowed keyless vehicle start. The GV70 included a nine-speaker audio system, with an 18-speaker Lexicon surround sound system on top grades.

The 2022 Kia Sportage offered safety features like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assistance on the EX and SX grades. The SX trim also included adaptive cruise control. The Sportage received favourable safety ratings, with the SX earning an IIHS Top Safety Pick.

The 2022 Genesis GV70 included ten standard safety features, such as blind spot collision avoidance and forward collision avoidance assist. The Highway Driving Assist system provided lane centring and automatic lane changing. A new rear occupant alert system used radar to detect movement in the second row. Safety ratings were not yet available, but the GV70's systems were highly regarded.