Should I buy a 2016–2021 Kia Sportage 1.7 Diesel Automatic?

Considering a 2016–2021 Kia Sportage 1.7 Diesel Automatic? This guide explains the problems associated with this model and what to examine when viewing one. Condition, maintenance history and previous repairs matter, so judge the exact car on evidence rather than badge appeal.

At a glance

We have detailed information drawn from more than 2 billion data points and an extensive list of potential faults for this vehicle. Below is a sample of three. Run a bespoke report by entering your vehicle details to see the full list.

This guide explains the model. Your registration tells the real story.

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2016–2021 Kia Sportage 1.7 Diesel Automatic
2016–2021 Kia Sportage 1.7 Diesel Automatic buyer guide image.

Common Kia Sportage (2016–2021) problems

1

DPF blockage and frequent regenerations

DPF or engine warning light, cooling fan running after shutdown, rising fuel use, reduced power, or limp mode after repeated short journeys.

2

Automatic gearbox judder and low-speed hesitation

Jerky take-off, shudder in stop-start traffic, delayed response when moving away, or awkward low-speed crawling.

3

Coolant loss from EGR cooler area

Coolant level gradually drops, heater output becomes inconsistent, or there is a faint hot-coolant smell after a run.

Kia Sportage buying questions

Is a 2016–2021 Kia Sportage worth buying?

It can be, but only if the individual car backs it up. For the 2016–2021 Kia Sportage 1.7 Diesel Automatic, treat model-level patterns as viewing priorities and let condition, history and inspection evidence decide.

What common problems affect the Kia Sportage (2016–2021)?

The problem cards above list the model-level checks for this guide. Read them as priorities for inspection and paperwork review, not proof that every example will have those faults.

What should I check before buying a Kia Sportage?

Look for evidence, not just assurances: MOT advisories, service history, repair invoices, warning lights, fluid leaks, tyre and brake condition, and how the car behaves on a proper test drive. And of course, look at your personalised Should I Buy This Car? report, outlining a full list of common issues in detail, a personalised road test, a plain-English explanation and a MotorIQ score.

A model guide is useful. A report on its registration is better.

The guide above gives you the model-level pattern. A personalised MotorIQ report checks the registration-specific record and turns it into an ownership view before you commit.

Or enter the vehicle manually