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Whether going on a lengthy road trip across the country or driving through your local town, it’s nice to have a vehicle that provides high-level comfort. It makes the drive much easier. And for the compact SUV segment, there’s an affordable option. It’s the 2023 Kia Sportage, the most comfortable compact SUV in 2023 — based on analysis from U.S. News & World Report. Also, with a starting cost of only $26K, the Sportage is a cushy value. 

2023 Kia Sportage is the most comfortable compact SUV in 2023

Front angle view of affordable 2023 Kia Sportage, U.S. News most comfortable compact SUV, costs only $26K
2023 Kia Sportage | Kia

To enjoy top-level comfort in a compact SUV, it’s understandable to assume that one has to get an expensive luxury SUV. These premium models have plush interiors and a range of comfort and convenience features that jack up the price.

However, you can enjoy this comfort without obliterating your financial health. This is shown by the 2023 Kia Sportage, the most comfortable compact SUV. U.S. News rates it the best, with a comfort score of 8.9 out of 10. No other model in the segment matches it. 

And with a starting price of only $26,290 MSRP, the Sportage is affordable. In times of high inflation with record-high vehicle prices, this financial accessibility is very appealing, especially for budget-minded drivers. The Kia SUV is a great value option.

How does the affordable Kia Sportage provide high-level comfort?

Sunroof in affordable 2023 Kia Sportage, U.S. News most comfortable compact SUV, costs only $26K
2023 Kia Sportage | Kia

The 2023 Kia Sportage has multiple elements that make it the most comfortable compact SUV. As detailed by U.S. News, with its redesign, it has a “modern cabin” with comfortable seats. The seats are ergonomically designed to reduce fatigue and stiffness on journeys. Also, the controls in the new cabin are easily reached, without the need to strain to access them. Plus, the new infotainment system is user-friendly — and offers a massive touchscreen. 

Additionally, for its overhaul in 2023, the Sportage experienced a growth spurt. It’s larger than the previous model, resulting in more passenger space — with a generous amount of headroom and legroom. Plus, the 41.3 inches of rear legroom is the best for the compact SUV segment.

Another factor is the excellent ride quality. The Sportage has a smooth-riding suspension that soaks up road imperfections. Also, it has good handling, so passengers don’t feel as impacted when the vehicle makes turns. 

In addition to its affordable price, the Sportage is cheap to own. It’s reliable, which helps lower repair costs. Also, it has generous warranty coverage, with the backing of a 5-year/60,000-mile basic warranty and a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty.

2023 Hyundai Tucson is another affordable and comfortable option

The 2023 Kia Sportage is the most comfortable compact SUV on the U.S. News list. And it’s also the cheapest, with a starting cost of $26,290 MSRP. This shows that you don’t have to pay a sky-high price for a vehicle with great comfort. It provides tremendous value.

Another affordable model on the U.S. News list is the 2023 Hyundai Tucson. It’s not surprising that the Tucson made the list, for it’s mechanically similar to the Sportage. The media site gave it a comfort score of 8.7, compared to 8.9 for the Kia SUV. Also, the Tucson doesn’t cost much more than Sportage, with a starting price of $26,900 MSRP.

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