2025 Kia Sportage Hybrid vs 2025 Sportage Plug-In Hybrid in Highland Park, IL
2025 Kia Sportage Hybrid (left) and 2025 Kia Sportage Plug-In Hybrid (right) show above with optional features.
In this overview our McGrath Kia of Highland Park team is comparing the key differences between two similar but unique models – the Sportage Hybrid and the Sportage Plug-In Hybrid. If you’ve been curious about which one might be the best choice for your needs in Chicagoland, keep reading!
Performance
Performance is one of the main elements that separate these two models into their own categories. The 2025 Sportage Hybrid combines a traditional combustion engine with a hybrid battery and motor to offer maximized fuel efficiency at 42/44 MPG city/hwy1. This is a great crossover for both city and highway driving, as the 1.6L turbocharged 4-cylinder powertrain is able to achieve 227 combined horsepower and 258 b.-ft. of torque combined. The 2025 Sportage Plug-In Hybrid has the same core engine, but adds a battery that can be charged electronically. This allows you to drive the vehicle solely on electric power for an estimated 34 miles2, drive solely on gasoline power for an estimated 35 MPG combined3, or utilize both together for an impressive 84 MPGe combined4. If you’re looking to reduce carbon emissions and test out an EV, you’ll want to test drive this model.
Interior
Both the Sportage Hybrid and the Sportage Plug-In Hybrid feature a versatile cabin with two rows of seating. In the Sportage Hybrid you’ll have class-leading second-row legroom at 41.3-inches and best-in-class5 39.5 cubic ft. of cargo space6 for heading out to Fort Sheridan Forest Preserve . Of course you always have the choice to collapse the rear seat and access up to 73.7 cubic ft. of maximum cargo room6. The Sportage Plug-In Hybrid also separates itself from the competition with best-in-class7 34.5 cubic ft. of cargo space behind the second row6 and up to 65.5 cubic ft. of maximum cargo space6. A stunning feature that we are pleased to see both models offer is the panoramic sunroof with power sunshade.
Cost and Trim Levels
Budget is often a factor when you are considering the next vehicle you want to take home in Highland Park. The 2025 Sportage Hybrid has an affordable starting MSRP8 of $28,790 for the base trim and three trim levels with feature upgrades that add interior and exterior amenities. The 2025 Sportage Plug-In Hybrid has two trim levels starting at $38,890 MSRP8. You will find that with the higher price tag of the Sportage Plug-In Hybrid comes numerous standard amenities that compare to the highest trim level of the Sportage Hybrid. Don’t forget that leasing is a way to enjoy low monthly payments and less commitment compared to purchasing. You can contact us at any time to learn more about the current incentives for both of these models!
Sportage Plug-In Hybrid
Sportage Hybrid
- 84 MPGe combined*
- Hybrid powertrain with EV charging option
- Seating for up to 5 passengers
- 34.5 cubic ft. of cargo space
- 2 trim levels
- 42/44 MPG city/hwy*
- Hybrid Powertrain
- Seating for up to 5 passengers
- 39.5 cubic ft. of cargo space
- 3 trim levels
Dealership Information
Testimonials
“ We had an outstanding experience at McGrath Kia of Highland Park, and I can’t say enough good things about Greg and Jarek. From the moment we walked in, they treated us with genuine respect, kindness, and professionalism. There was absolutely no pressure—just honest communication. Greg and Jarek (Jerry) had a truly top-notch demeanor. We were treated extremely well and felt confident in our decision. I would absolutely recommend anyone looking for a car to work with them—you won’t be disappointed! Thank you both—I’m going to greatly enjoy my new car! 🚗✨ ”
Wayne is the guy!
“ Wayne is the guy! Super laid back and on top of his game. No games, no garbage, just a straight shooter who will tell you how he sees it. ”
“ Nicholas was an excellent salesperson at Kia—friendly, professional, and genuinely helpful throughout the entire process. He took the time to answer all my questions, made everything easy and stress-free, Highly recommend working with Nicholas if you’re looking for a great car-buying experience! ”
“ I took my car in for some recalls and they took care of everything in just a few hours. I was dropped back home instead of waiting on site and when the car was ready they offered to pick me up. Great service all around. ”
“ Highly recommend Kia McGrath in highland park. Great service. Great staff. Go get your car serviced with them. And if you don’t have a car, go buy one from them! I’m Always in and out when I need an oil change! Thank you Jackie at service!! ”
“ Nicholas at McGrath Kia of Highland Park was extremely helpful throughout our process. He was responsive, patient, and answered every question we had. I'd definitely recommend working with him! ”
“ My car was transferred to this dealership from another Mcgrath location. The customer service and follow up from the service team at this dealership has been amazing to say the least. Breana, Joe, Tristan, And Jackie have kept me in the loop every step of the way and return my calls the same day or at least within 24 hours. They are honest and transparent it's refreshing to have this type of quality service. Thank you. ”
“ Mike Delaney was awesome!!! After owning a telluride for 6 years, he taught me 100 new things about my car that I never knew. Patients, friendly and knowledgeable. Thank you so much Mike. ”
“ Thanks Mike Delaney for my new Sorento. ”
“ Jackie Piece is the best...she was very knowledgeable and prompt at solving my issues and concerns. I recommend her great customer service and recommend the Highland Park dealership to anyone who wants the best customer experience. All employees at this dealership are fantastic hard workers. Under new dealership this Highland Park Kia tops any other dealership I've experienced. They are kind and considerate. I've read previous reviews from retrospective reviews about racism and I rebut those comments because I am an African American man and my experience with this dealership was exceptional well and fairly treated. This is the dealership that works with you and guaranteed satisfaction is the end result. ”
Jackie Pierce and Jose are the best and were very
“ Jackie Pierce and Jose are the best and were very knowledgeable and helpful about my concerns. I highly recommend their customer service and I give them a million star rating because of their prompt service and how quickly they were both able to solve my issues and concerns. ”
“ My car needed to be towed in for electrical issues - no car available. I spoke to Jackie, she got me a car within 30 minutes and has gone way out of her way to help me. I have been working with Orest Sosnivka in sales. He too has been extremely helpful, respectful and knowledgeable. ”
“ Pejman was a very kind and helpful salesman! He broke down all the pricing and options for us so that we could get a reliable family vehicle. I really appreciate him making the process seamless and efficient. He even reached out the morning after our purchase, congratulating us offering to go over any features in the vehicle if we needed assistance. Wonderful customer service! Also, I had also called multiple Kia dealerships and no one was real knowledgeable on working with military members who are trying to register their vehicle in their home state. I spoke with Jackie at McGrath who is a former marine and was able to get the process started before we even got to the dealership. These guys got it done and helped us through the process, so would definitely recommend them over us Kia dealerships for military members. Lastly, I did not catch his name, but another salesman took some time to play with and color with my 3 year old. Going above and out of the way to make us feel comfortable. I can't express how much I appreciate that as a mom and it was the extra step that made us want to buy the vehicle from this dealership. Thank you to everyone at McGrath Kia for the wonderful purchasing experience! We love our new Telluride! ”
“ Thank you Isabella for your patience and professionalism you were the best! I had a great experience ❤️ ”
“ Worked with Wayne and Neil! Very good salesman made sure I walked out with what I wanted plus more! Very good and professional people! ”
“ We weee helped by Wayne and he was extremely kind and knowledgeable made our car buying experience seamless ”
“ (Translated by Google) undefined (Original) Thanks Mike! ”
“ (Translated by Google) undefined (Original) McGrath Kia of Highland Park has been phenomenal to work with. Excellent customer service. I came in initially for service on my Kia Sportage. The best customer service I’ve had with a car dealership. Bri really took care of us and gave us a wonderful rental to use. After our car was serviced, we came to look at a new 2025 Kia Sportage. Mike and Isabelle were phenomenal to work with. We came in with a number in mind and they gave us a great deal. No long wait. Extremely kind. Great customer service overall. ”
“ (Translated by Google) undefined (Original) Thank you Mike and Tracy for helping with my new telluride! Great customer service from start to finish ”
“ (Translated by Google) undefined (Original) All the staff is very friendly, knowledgeable, and helpful! ”
“ Great experience purchasing new Kia Sportage with Nicolas! ”
“ (Translated by Google) undefined (Original) Thank you Mike Delaney for helping us with our new car! Super fast and easy process! 10/10 customer service ”
“ (Translated by Google) undefined (Original) Great service, great people, great car. Special thanks to Pejman Movafaghi for his professionalism and help during my search. ”
“ Top-notch customer experience at McGrath Kia - Highland Park! Thank you to Tracey who answered our internet inquiry and found the right vehicle for our family. And a huge shout out to Mike D who assisted - start to finish - with the purchase of our new Kia! Thank you - 5 stars! ”
“ Michael Delaney made our Kia purchase and process so easy and painless! What a great experience! Would highly recommend this dealer and salesperson! Their entire team was super helpful and very coordinated communication. ”
“ Thank you to mike delaney for our purchase for my new nissan rogue ”
“ Thank you Mike Delaney for helping me purchase my new Kia Sportage! Can’t wait to drive it. ”
“ Kat Louvar went above and beyond to ensure my experience, from beginning to end, was a positive one. Thanks again Kat! ”
“ Thanks mike Delaney for helping us with our new ride! If you need a car come see mike and McGrath Kia highland park!! 10/10 customer service!!! ”
“ nicolas was so helpful and made us feel at ease throughout the purchase process! ”
“ Great service and professionalism! Highly recommend this dealership and the staff!! ”
“ Thanks to Mike Delaney for all your help with the Kia Carnival!! ”
“ Greg Choina didn’t have to walk us through our purchase - there were plenty of capable salespeople around. But something connected with us and he gave my wife and me his entire day - the General Manager working with us all day long and we couldn’t be happier! We thought we were in the market for a pre-owned vehicle and got an amazing deal that he patiently worked out for us. But nearly minutes from closing, we thought, “Why not apply these generous benefits to a new car purchase?” It ended up being in the same ballpark, yet with ALL the features that each of us were looking for that the used one didn’t have (black exterior, terracotta interior, and tow package) - a custom build he found that the original purchaser reneged on. Kia, especially the Telluride, is kicking butt. But Greg is making all the difference in helping us feel how solidly on top of the world this brand and vehicle has become. Everyone in the market for a family vehicle should stop in to see Greg and his team. Thanks, Kia of Highland Park and Greg C! Happy New Year! ”
1 MPG: Based on EPA estimates. Actual mileage will vary with options, driving conditions, driving habits, and your vehicle’s condition. For more information, please see www.fueleconomy.gov 2025 Sportage Hybrid LX FWD is rated at an EPA-estimated 42/44/43 MPG (City, Highway, Combined). 2025 Sportage Hybrid LX AWD is rated at an EPA-estimated 38/38/38 MPG (City, Highway, Combined). 2025 Sportage Hybrid EX AWD (shown) is rated at an EPA-estimated 38/38/38 MPG (City, Highway, Combined). 2025 Sportage Hybrid SX Prestige AWD is rated at an EPA-estimated 38/38/38 MPG (City, Highway, Combined).
2 All-electric range based on EPA estimates on a full battery charge. Actual range will vary with options, driving conditions, driving habits, vehicle maintenance, charging practice, battery age, weather, temperature, and your vehicle’s condition. Battery capacity will decrease with time and use. For more information on range, please see www.fueleconomy.gov.
3 Engine only. EPA fuel economy estimates. Actual mileage will vary with options, driving conditions, driving habits, and your vehicle’s condition.
4 EPA fuel economy estimates. Actual mileage will vary with options, driving conditions, driving habits, and your vehicle’s condition.
5 Comparison based on publicly available data regarding cargo room behind the 2nd row of seats in 2024/2025 Hybrid sub-compact SUVs as of July 2024. Hybrid sub-compact SUV class as defined by Kia segmentation.
6 All cargo should be evenly distributed, properly secured, and never piled higher than the seatback.
7 Comparison based on publicly available data regarding cargo room behind the 2nd-row of seats in 2025 Plug-in Hybrid sub-compact SUVs as of May 2024. Plug-in Hybrid Sub-Compact SUV class as defined by Kia segmentation.
8 Starting MSRP" price is manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) for lowest model trim. See "Build and Price" section for MSRP of model shown. MSRP excludes destination and handling charges, taxes, title, license fees, options, and dealer charges. Vehicles shown with optional equipment. Actual price set by dealer and may vary. The applicable destination and handling charge per model are provided in the “Build and Price” section. See dealer for details. Some features only available as part of packages. See "Features & Specifications" and "Options" pages for details. Kia America, Inc. reserves the right to make changes at any time as to vehicle availability, destination, and handling fees, colors, materials, specifications, features, accessories, packages, and models. Not responsible for typographical or computer errors.
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“ Absolutely everyone I encountered there was so kind and attentive. They made it so easy to drop off my car, get a great loaner and keep in touch. I’m truly not going anywhere else from here on out! Thanks Jackie and Scott!! ”