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At Kia of Orange Park in Jacksonville, FL, we take pride in helping you with every step of the car buying process, from finding a vehicle that suits your needs to valuing your trade and more. One of the standout models in our 2026 lineup is the adventurous and versatile Kia Sportage. If you're torn between trim levels, two of the most compelling options are the 2026 Kia Sportage LX and the EX. Each delivers a blend of tech-forward features, dependable performance, and innovative design that makes everyday driving something to look forward to.
Whether you’re making your daily commute, heading to the beach, or planning a weekend road trip, the Kia Sportage provides the confidence and convenience you need. Let's take a closer look at the 2026 Kia Sportage LX vs. the 2026 Kia Sportage EX so you can decide which one is the best fit for your lifestyle before you visit our Kia dealership in Jacksonville, FL.
The 2026 Kia Sportage continues to impress under the hood, with a refined 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine powering both the LX and EX trims. Delivering 187 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque, this powertrain offers a confident response whether you’re merging onto the highway or navigating through busy city streets. Paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, gear changes are smooth and intuitive, helping you enjoy a balanced ride every time you’re behind the wheel.
Front-wheel drive is standard on both trims, but if you prefer enhanced traction and stability, especially during Florida's unpredictable rainy season, all-wheel drive is available. The Kia Sportage LX offers impressive fuel economy with an EPA-estimated 25 MPG in the city and 33 MPG on the highway. The EX, with its added features and available AWD, provides slightly lower figures but still maintains efficiency with up to 30 MPG highway. Whether you're concerned about performance, efficiency, or both, the 2026 Kia Sportage is designed to deliver.
Step inside either trim of the 2026 Kia Sportage and you're greeted with thoughtful design and plenty of space to relax. The LX trim offers an excellent value with soft cloth seating, ample passenger room, and an intuitive infotainment setup featuring an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay®, and Android™ Auto. It’s a clean, modern interior that doesn’t skimp on functionality or connectivity.
The EX trim, on the other hand, takes comfort to another level. You’ll enjoy upgraded SynTex seating surfaces, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, and dual-zone automatic climate control that keeps everyone happy no matter the weather outside. The EX also swaps in a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen with built-in navigation, voice recognition, and Kia Connect services for a more connected driving experience. USB ports in both rows ensure all your devices stay charged, while smart storage solutions make room for everything from groceries to gear for a weekend getaway.
The bold design that comes from Kia continues to shine in the 2026 Kia Sportage, which carries a distinctive and athletic look from front to back. The LX trim keeps things clean and contemporary, featuring 17-inch alloy wheels, a signature black grille, and crisp LED daytime running lights. The Kia Sportage offers a muscular body and sculpted lines that give it a confident presence no matter where it’s parked.
If you choose the EX trim, you’ll enjoy some stylish upgrades including 18-inch alloy wheels, gloss black accents, and silver roof rails. The smart key system with push-button start adds convenience, while the optional power liftgate makes loading up easier than ever. Whether you’re heading out for a weekend in the Orange Park, FL area or just grabbing dinner downtown, the EX adds an extra layer of polish and utility.
Cargo space is a standout feature in the 2026 Kia Sportage, and both trims offer impressive room for your gear. Behind the second row, you’ll find over 39 cubic feet of space—plenty for luggage, strollers, or sports equipment. With the rear seats folded flat, that expands to more than 74 cubic feet, making the Kia Sportage one of the roomiest compact SUVs in its class.
The EX trim adds helpful conveniences like a dual-level cargo floor and a cargo cover, which can come in handy when you want to keep valuables out of sight. Whether it’s your daily errands or an extended road trip, both the LX and EX make packing and organizing simple.
So which trim is right for you? If you’re looking for a well-rounded SUV that offers impressive features and value at a great price, the 2026 Kia Sportage LX might be exactly what you need. But if you want an elevated experience with premium touches, advanced infotainment, and a more refined interior, the EX could be the perfect fit.
At Kia of Orange Park near Neptune Beach, FL, we’re here to help you navigate your decision with clarity and confidence. Our team is ready to answer your questions, schedule your test-drive, and walk you through flexible financing options tailored to your needs. Visit us today in Jacksonville, FL, and experience the bold innovation of the 2026 Kia Sportage firsthand. Your next adventure begins here.
*Vehicle Images provided by EVOX. Images are for illustrative purposes only.
