Johannesburg, 3 March 2025 – The Kia Sportage has extended its impressive local awards streak by clinching the top spot in the prestigious ‘Family Car’ category at the 2025 Cars.co.za Consumer Awards. In doing so, the Sportage has solidified its position as the ultimate family SUV, winning this coveted title for the second consecutive year with an exceptional 4.7% margin over its closest competitor.
At the awards ceremony held at Waterfall City Park at Mall of Africa in Johannesburg, the Sportage 1.6 CRDi GT Line Plus variant once again showcased its outstanding performance and value, outpacing its rivals in one of the most fiercely competitive segments of the South African automotive market.
This back-to-back victory builds on the Sportage’s historic achievement in 2024, when it became the first Korean product to win an award in the competition. That year, the Sportage 1.6 CRDi EX variant took home the honors, marking a significant milestone for Kia South Africa.
The award is based on a dual judging system: 50% of the final standings are determined by the expert opinions of a panel of judges, while the remaining 50% is based on rankings from the Cars.co.za Ownership Satisfaction Survey, which gathered insights from nearly 5,000 car owners across the country. This unique approach highlights not only the professional acclaim the Sportage has garnered but also the satisfaction and trust it commands from actual owners.
Paul Turnbull, CEO of Kia South Africa, expressed his pride in the win, stating, “Securing this award once again reinforces that the Sportage is not just the ultimate urban SUV, but also delivers unmatched value in a fiercely competitive segment, connecting with today’s consumers. The Sportage is undeniably the best family car on the market today. Its blend of cutting-edge technology, advanced safety features, and stylish design makes it the perfect choice for modern families. We’re proud to see it continue to lead the way in both performance and customer satisfaction, setting new standards in the SUV category.”
The Sportage’s Winning Formula
The fifth-generation Kia Sportage, launched in South Africa in September 2022, quickly garnered widespread acclaim for its blend of modern design, advanced technology, and exceptional performance. Powered by Kia’s renowned 1.6-litre turbocharged GDI engine, the Sportage offered an unparalleled combination of power and efficiency, quickly becoming a favorite among families seeking a versatile, stylish, and feature-packed SUV.
In May 2023, the Sportage range received a significant boost with the introduction of an equally impressive 1.6-litre turbodiesel powertrain. The addition of this engine option was a pivotal moment for the model, particularly in a market traditionally dominated by diesel-powered SUVs. This move further strengthened the Sportage’s appeal, providing customers with the perfect balance of performance and fuel efficiency.
As Kia celebrated the 30th anniversary of the Sportage nameplate, the model’s evolution was clear: from its iconic debut in 1993 to the dynamic and future-ready fifth-generation iteration, the Sportage has continuously adapted to the changing needs of its customers. Its advanced safety features, including forward collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and a suite of other driver-assistance technologies, position it as a true leader in the family car segment, making it an ideal choice for families who demand both practicality and luxury.
A Legacy of Excellence
With this latest award, the Kia Sportage has once again demonstrated its ability to lead in both performance and customer satisfaction, setting the bar for the family SUV segment. Its combination of cutting-edge design, state-of-the-art technology, and commitment to safety has made it a firm favorite among South African families. As the Sportage continues to evolve, it remains a symbol of Kia’s dedication to innovation and excellence, delivering a driving experience that stands out in a competitive market.
As Kia South Africa moves forward, the Sportage will undoubtedly remain a key player in the brand’s lineup, continuing to deliver value, performance, and style to customers across the country. The back-to-back win at the 2025 Cars.co.za Consumer Awards is a testament to the Sportage’s enduring appeal and its place at the top of the family SUV category.
About Kia South Africa:
Kia South Africa is committed to delivering innovative, high-quality vehicles that offer cutting-edge technology, exceptional value, and superior customer satisfaction. With a growing lineup of vehicles designed for modern living, Kia continues to redefine the driving experience for families and individuals alike.
