2009 Kia Sportage vs. 2012 Toyota Highlander
To start off, 2012 Toyota Highlander is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Kia Sportage. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Kia Sportage would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Toyota Highlander (280 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 144 more horse power than 2009 Kia Sportage. (136 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Toyota Highlander should accelerate faster than 2009 Kia Sportage.
Because 2012 Toyota Highlander is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Kia Sportage. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Toyota Highlander will offer significantly more control. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Kia Sportage | 2012 Toyota Highlander | |
| Make | Kia | Toyota |
| Model | Sportage | Highlander |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1975 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 136 HP | 280 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4796 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1740 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2789 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.4 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 12.4 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 65 L |
