Kia Sportage Hybrid vs Land Rover Range Rover Velar

A luxury SUV with seating for five people, the 2024 Velar is one of four SUVs to wear Range Rover lettering across the leading edge of its hood. It slots into the lineup between the smaller Evoque and more capable Sport. This model year, the Velar receives several updates. They include design and comfort enhancements and several improvements to the standard infotainment system.

Verdict: The changes to the 2024 Range Rover Velar result in an appealing, if flawed, alternative to the best-sellers in the segment, such as the BMW X5 and Mercedes-Benz GLE. If the Velar had more natural and less frustrating technology, it could raise its profile in the midsize luxury SUV segment considerably.

The Sportage is big enough for family use, but not so large that it's unwieldy or difficult to park in the city or in an owner's garage. It's packed with useful technology and boasts bold styling that stands out in a sea of similarly shaped crossovers. In hybrid form, it’s also more efficient than the gas-only version.

Verdict: The 2026 Kia Sportage is sized right among compact crossover SUVs. It strikes an intriguing balance of roominess, comfort, and efficiency that ought to win over plenty of drivers.