The Lexus RX and Kia Sportage are two excellent family SUVs. The RX is a larger midsize luxury SUV for premium buyers, while the Kia Sportage is a smaller compact crossover for value-focused buyers. So, which one is the right choice for your family? This guide compares the Lexus vs. the Kia to help you decide.
Pricing and Value: What You Get for Your Money
Both Lexus and Kia offer the RX and Sportage in a choice of six trim levels, all increasing in value and features as you move up the lineup. The Base 2025 Lexus RX 350 starts at an MSRP of $51,175 with front-wheel drive, undercutting higher trims while delivering the luxury you won’t necessarily find in the Kia Sportage’s front-wheel drive $28,690 entry point. The Sportage tops out around $39,590 for fully loaded models, but it lacks the RX’s premium build that justifies the price gap. All-wheel drive is optional across the lineup on both makes and models.
At base prices, the RX includes a 9.8-inch touch screen (a 14-inch is optional in higher trims), a 12-speaker premium sound system, NuLuxe heated front seats, and open-pore wood trim that gives it a luxurious feel without having to jump up the lineup. It also includes a power rear door that makes it easy to load and offload gear. The Kia offers dual 12.3-inch screens in the base, but only a six-speaker sound system. Lexus adds a power tilt and telescopic steering wheel, front and rear parking sensors, and LED lights standard, while Sportage requires higher trims for the same.
The Lexus RX 350 retains more of its value after the first five years (33% loss) compared to the Kia Sportage’s 50% loss, appealing to resale-focused buyers who want longer-term value. The Lexus RX’s 4-year/50,000-mile basic warranty plus 6-year/70,000-mile drivetrain trails the Kia Sportage’s 5-year/60,000-mile basic and 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain coverage. The Lexus, however, offers complimentary maintenance for the first year which Kia does not.
Performance and Powertrain Comparison
The Lexus RX 350’s 2.5-liter turbo delivers 275 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque, surging ahead of the Kia Sportage’s base 2.5-liter 187 horsepower and 178 lb-ft. of torque. Both use 8-speed automatics, but the RX’s available AWD with center differential provides superior traction, especially in wet weather or exploring the nearby mountainous areas and ski resorts (such as Big Bear, Mammoth Lakes, or Lake Tahoe) during the icy and snowy winter months.
The Lexus handles with composed dynamics, achieving a reasonable 0-60 in 7 seconds, versus the Kia Sportage’s softer ride and more sluggish 9.1-second mph time. The RX’s longer wheelbase keeps it stable at faster highway speeds, and premium steering feedback gives Lexus the edge for many. This is helpful for those daily commutes on I-10 to LA.
When it comes to towing, the RX leads the charge with a 3,500-pound towing capacity when fitted with the available towing package. The Sportage offers a maximum towing capacity of 2,500 pounds when equipped with an aftermarket brake controller. In real-world terms, this means you can tow slightly larger and heavier loads, such as a small boat or a fully-equipped pop-up camper, with the Lexus, whereas the Kia is limited to lighter campers or small trailers.
Fuel Economy and Efficiency
The Kia Sportage gas version beats the Lexus RX gas model at 25 mpg city and 32 mpg highway, compared to 22 mpg city and 29 mpg highway, but it does require regular fuel. The RX 350h hybrid achieves 36 mpg combined, which is more competitive with the Sportage hybrid’s 42 and 44 mpg. The Lexus PHEV model offers 37-mile EV range, which is on par with the Kia Sportage PHEV’s 34 miles.
All in all, the best choice depends on your preferences and what you are more likely to use your SUV for. If you are looking for a pure commuter vehicle, then the Sportage’s efficiency is better. Lexus offers a smoother, more premium experience, making that drive to San Gabriel Country Club more enjoyable.
Interior Space, Comfort, and Cargo Capacity
Lexus RX prioritizes luxury with 38.1-inch front headroom, heated and ventilated power seats, and superior materials over Sportage’s arguably more functional space. Both seat five comfortably, but the RX has a much quieter cabin. Multi-level heating comes standard on the Lexus to improve your daily comfort. The Kia Sportage offers more rear legroom (41.3 inches) than the RX (37.4 inches), which may suit families who are looking for pure capacity. Lexus’s reclining split-folding seats and armrest give it a more spacious and premium feel.
In terms of cargo space, the Sportage leads with 39.6 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 74.1 cubic feet of maximum space, compared to the RX’s 29.6 cubic feet and 46.2 cubic feet of maximum space when the seats are folded down. This means the Kia is better for maximum storage for utilitarian buyers, but the Lexus maximizes usability through its premium power features, which some may find an advantage.
Lexus RX vs. Kia Sportage: Which SUV Should You Buy?
Deciding between the Kia Sportage vs. the Lexus RX 350 really comes down to your personal preference and what experience you are hoping to achieve with your new purchase. Choose the 2025 Lexus RX for luxury, power, resale value, and refined driving, an ideal choice for more premium buyers. The Kia Sportage suits budget buyers who want maximum cargo space and base efficiency, and don’t care about the luxury frills. If you’re excited to experience the new Lexus for yourself, visit Longo Lexus today to explore its features and schedule a test drive.
Connect with us
