What changed on the 2027 Kia Sportage from 2026, and what it means for Bowie, MD buyers

The EPA rates the 2027 Sportage Hybrid FWD at 41 combined mpg against 42 for the 2026, and the other versions keep their 2026 ratings. Bowie, MD buyers can see the gas, hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions at Kia of Bowie.

You can find us in Bowie at 16620 Governor Bridge Rd, MD 20716. Which Sportage fits comes down to how you drive, what you haul or tow, and what Maryland adds to the price.

Keep reading below, then schedule a test drive in Bowie. Bringing your own numbers to the lot settles this faster than any spec sheet.

What changed on the 2027 Kia Sportage from 2026?

The EPA rates the 2027 Sportage Hybrid FWD at 40 city, 42 highway and 41 combined mpg, against 41, 44 and 42 for the 2026, a 1 mpg drop in the combined rating. The gas FWD and AWD, the Hybrid AWD, the Plug-in Hybrid and the X-pro keep their 2026 ratings (EPA, 2027).

What drivetrains does the 2027 Kia Sportage Hybrid offer by trim?

The Sportage Hybrid comes in front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive. The Hybrid LX FWD is the lowest-priced hybrid trim, starting at $30,590 (Kia, 2027).

EPA certified ratings for the 2026 model year show a clear gap between the two. The Hybrid FWD is rated 41 city, 44 highway and 42 combined mpg, against 35, 36 and 35 for the Hybrid AWD, a 7 mpg combined gap.

If you do not need all-wheel traction, the front-wheel drive hybrid keeps the higher number. If you want all-wheel drive for winter roads or wet weather, you give up some efficiency to get it.

Gas, hybrid or plug-in hybrid: which 2027 Sportage suits you?

The Hybrid FWD has the highest combined rating in the 2026 Sportage lineup, at 42 mpg. Gas and plug-in buyers have more to weigh, because each drivetrain trades fuel use against cost and driving style.

EPA certified ratings for the 2026 model year, by version:

For all-wheel drive, the choice is clearest. The gas AWD is rated 26 combined mpg, the hybrid AWD 35 and the plug-in hybrid AWD 36. The X-pro gas trim is rated 24 combined, so it trades fuel economy for its own setup.

The plug-in carries a cost the other two do not. Maryland adds a $100 annual registration surcharge for plug-in hybrids (MDOT MVA, 2025). Count that surcharge against the plug-in’s one-mpg edge over the hybrid AWD before you choose it.

When do cargo and towing needs point past the 2027 Sportage?

Where a buyer needs seven seats or a heavier tow, the Sorento in our lineup covers that.

The Sportage carries 39.6 cubic feet behind its second row, according to Kia’s 2027 specifications. Kia’s published 2026 specifications put the Sorento’s cargo behind its second row at 38.5 to 45.0 cubic feet, and 12.6 cubic feet behind its third row.

The Sorento LX seats seven and is rated to tow 2,000 pounds. The Sorento EX tows 3,500 pounds, and the Sorento X-Pro SX Prestige AWD tows 4,500 pounds, all in the 2026 model year.

Pick the Sportage if you seat five and need cargo room more than a tow rating. Pick the Sorento if a third row or a 3,500-pound tow is on your list.

FAQ

What Maryland taxes and fees apply when buying a new Sportage in Bowie?

Maryland charges a 6.5% titling tax on fair market value, with a $41.60 minimum, plus a $200 title certificate for a new or used vehicle (MDOT MVA, 2025). A passenger car’s registration is $120.50 for a shipping weight of 3,500 lbs or less, $125.50 for 3,500 to 3,700 lbs, and $191.50 above 3,700 lbs, for one year (MDOT MVA, 2025).

How do I get a trade-in value toward a 2027 Sportage?

Start with the online trade tool, which takes a license plate, a VIN, or a make and model. A make-and-model lookup gives a general estimate based on historical data, and that estimate can change. The payment calculator accepts a trade-in offer amount as an entry. In a July 2025 Google review, Jonathon D. wrote: “No pressure, great value, and they’re very fair about your trade in.”

Can I buy a 2027 Sportage online from Bowie?

Yes. AcceleRide lets you buy a car fully online, and a secure finance application can be submitted there too. The online trade tool, with its Get My Price button, lets you start your trade-in online too.

How far does the 2027 Sportage Plug-in Hybrid go on electricity?

The EPA certifies the 2026 Sportage Plug-in Hybrid AWD at 33 miles of electric range, with a total range of 470 miles. Its EPA ratings are 35 city, 36 highway and 36 combined mpg for the same model year.

What financing and leasing options can I use for a 2027 Sportage?

Kia leases, new Kia financing and pre-owned car loans are all available here. We also have financing and leasing options for all credit levels, and buyers can submit a secure finance application online.

Why buy a 2027 Kia Sportage at Kia of Bowie?

We have 4.4 stars across 1,460 Google reviews, and 80 in 100 of them are five-star (Google, 2026). Service appointments can be scheduled online.

In a May 2026 Google review, Tyson S. wrote: “Lauryn, thank you for taking the time in order to smoothly get our warranty repair done without any hassle at all. I really appreciated that!” In an April 2026 Google review, Ann A. wrote: “Jeremy was fantastic, always keeping me updated on my vehicle while it was in their shop. I recommend Kia of Bowie!”

Kia of Bowie answers this question against the specific vehicle in front of you rather than the model in general. Value your trade and get pre-approved online, then see us at our Bowie showroom, or call (240) 927-4800.

Disclaimer: Vehicle features, specifications, pricing, options, and availability may vary based on production timelines and dealership inventory; images are for illustrative purposes only. Starting MSRP figures are national and exclude destination freight charges, tax, title, license, and dealer fees. Standard and available equipment varies by trim, configuration, and model year; confirm the specification of the individual vehicle before purchase. Maximum towing and payload ratings depend on cab, bed, drivetrain, and equipment configuration; see the vehicle’s Owner’s Manual and trailering guide for limits. Electric range and charging times vary with battery, configuration, temperature, terrain, load, and driving habits. Safety or driver assistance features are no substitute for the driver’s responsibility to operate the vehicle in a safe manner. Financing and pre-approval are subject to credit approval. Contact Kia of Bowie for complete details regarding current vehicle inventory, pricing, and equipment.