2026 Kia Sportage PHEV: EX vs. SX Trim Comparison for Laval Families

Finding the right plug-in hybrid SUV for your family means balancing features, technology, and value. The 2026 Kia Sportage PHEV delivers all three with three compelling trim options: EX, EX Premium, and SX. All variants share the same efficient powertrain and spacious interior, but they differ in premium features and driver assistance technology. For families in Laval looking to reduce fuel costs without compromising on capability, understanding these differences helps you choose the trim that best fits your lifestyle and budget.

The Sportage PHEV lineup starts with the newly introduced EX trim at $46,295 (MSRP), while the range-topping SX comes in at $52,895. Between these two sits the EX Premium at $49,395, offering advanced safety and premium audio without the SX's additional exterior styling upgrades. All three trims deliver the same 268 hp combined output from the 1.6L turbocharged engine paired with a 72 kW electric motor, plus standard all-wheel drive and 2,000 lb towing capacity. The 13.8 kWh lithium-ion polymer battery provides enough all-electric range for typical daily commutes around Laval, with the gasoline engine seamlessly taking over for longer trips to the Laurentians or Eastern Townships.

Powertrain and Efficiency: Identical Performance Across All Trims

Every 2026 Sportage PHEV—whether EX, EX Premium, or SX—uses the same plug-in hybrid system. The 1.6L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine combines with a permanent magnet synchronous motor to deliver 268 hp and 271 lb-ft of torque. Power routes through a 6-speed automatic transmission to all four wheels, providing confident handling in Quebec's varied weather conditions.

The 360-volt, 13.8 kWh battery pack offers sufficient electric-only range for errands, school runs, and commutes without burning gasoline. When the battery depletes, the system operates as a conventional hybrid, cycling between electric and gasoline power to maximize efficiency. The 42 L fuel tank keeps refuelling stops infrequent during longer family road trips.

EX Trim: Essential Features with Strong Value

The EX represents the entry point for Sportage PHEV ownership, but "entry-level" doesn't mean bare-bones. This trim includes substantial equipment:

Exterior & Wheels:

• 19-inch alloy wheels
• Projection LED headlights with LED daytime running lights
• LED fog lights
• Panoramic sunroof
• Power-folding heated side mirrors
• Rain-sensing wipers
• Roof rails

Technology & Connectivity:

• 12.3-inch multimedia interface with ccNC Lite
• 6-speaker audio system
• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• 4-inch LCD/TFT instrument cluster
• Kia Connect with over-the-air updates
• Wireless phone charger
• Smart power liftgate
• Smart key with push-button start
• HomeLink system

Interior Comfort:

• Dual-zone automatic climate control
• Synthetic leather seats
• Heated front seats
• Power-adjustable driver's seat with memory function
• Power-adjustable front passenger seat
• Air-cooled front seats
• Heated rear seats
• Heated steering wheel
• 60:40 split-folding rear seats

Safety & Driver Assistance:

• Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist 1.5
• Lane Keeping Assist and Lane Following Assist 2
• Highway Drive Assist 1
• Smart Cruise Control 2 with stop-and-go
• Parking Distance Warning (front and rear)
• Rear Occupant Alert
• 8 airbags

The EX trim delivers everything most families need for daily driving. The dual-zone climate control keeps everyone comfortable, while heated and ventilated front seats handle Quebec's temperature extremes. The smart power liftgate simplifies loading groceries or sports equipment, and the panoramic sunroof adds an airy feel to the cabin.

EX Premium Trim: Advanced Safety and Premium Audio

The EX Premium trim builds on the EX foundation with premium audio, advanced driver assistance systems, and enhanced visibility features. The $3,000 price difference delivers meaningful upgrades for families who prioritize technology and safety:

Enhanced Technology:

• Harman Kardon premium audio system (replacing 6-speaker setup)
• 12.3-inch Supervision LCD/TFT instrument cluster (vs. 4-inch)
• LCD/TFT Heads-Up Display
• Digital Key functionality

Advanced Safety & Driver Assistance:

• Forward Collision Avoidance Assist 2 (upgraded from 1.5)
• Highway Drive Assist 2 (upgraded from HDA 1)
• Blind View Monitor
• Surround View Monitor with 360-degree camera
• Remote Smart Parking Assist
• Parking Collision Avoidance Assist (reverse)
• Parking Distance Warning (front, side, and rear)

The EX Premium's technology upgrades transform the driving experience. The 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster replaces the smaller 4-inch display, providing clearer information at a glance. The Heads-Up Display projects speed, navigation directions, and driver assistance alerts directly onto the windshield, keeping your eyes on the road.

Highway Drive Assist 2 represents a significant advancement over HDA 1. This system uses forward-facing cameras, radar sensors, and navigation data to maintain speed and distance from vehicles ahead while providing steering assistance during lane changes when you activate the turn signal. For families making frequent trips on Autoroute 15 or Highway 440, this reduces driver fatigue during longer journeys.

The Surround View Monitor proves invaluable in tight Laval parking lots or when manoeuvring in the driveway. The 360-degree camera system provides a bird's-eye view of your surroundings, making it easier to avoid obstacles and park with confidence. Remote Smart Parking Assist takes this further, allowing you to control parking manoeuvres from outside the vehicle using your smart key—useful when squeezing into narrow garage spaces.

SX Trim: Premium Styling and Refinement

The SX trim adds premium exterior styling and refined interior touches to the EX Premium's technology suite. The $3,500 price difference over EX Premium delivers:

Premium Exterior Details:

• LED headlights with 4-cube projection and low beam assist
• Matte chrome and dark satin finish elements

The SX retains all the EX Premium's advanced safety systems (HDA 2, Surround View Monitor, Remote Smart Parking Assist, Blind View Monitor) and premium technology (Harman Kardon audio, 12.3-inch instrument cluster, Heads-Up Display, Digital Key). The primary difference lies in exterior styling upgrades and interior materials that enhance the vehicle's premium appearance.

Comparing EX, EX Premium, and SX: Key Differences

Cargo Capacity and Family Practicality

All three trims offer identical cargo space, providing 977 L behind the second row with the cargo floor raised. This accommodates weekly grocery runs, sports equipment, or luggage for weekend getaways. With the rear seats folded, capacity expands to 1,855 L—enough for larger items like furniture or camping gear.

The PHEV's battery placement under the cargo floor means the Sportage PHEV lacks the dual-level cargo floor found in HEV models. However, the fixed floor creates a flat loading surface that simplifies organizing cargo and prevents items from rolling around.

Rear passengers benefit from 1,050 mm of legroom, ensuring teens and adults travel comfortably on longer trips. The 60:40 split-folding rear seats provide flexibility when you need to carry both passengers and bulky cargo simultaneously.

Which Trim Fits Your Family?

Choose the EX if:

• You want strong value with essential features
• Your budget prioritizes the $6,500 savings over SX
• Basic driver assistance systems meet your needs
• You primarily drive familiar routes around Laval
• The standard 6-speaker audio system satisfies your family

Choose the EX Premium if:

• Premium audio quality matters for family road trips
• You frequently drive on highways and want HDA 2
• Advanced parking assistance simplifies tight spaces
• The Heads-Up Display appeals for safer driving
• You want comprehensive safety technology at mid-range pricing

Choose the SX if:

• You want the most refined exterior styling
• Premium interior materials and finishes matter
• You want every available feature in the PHEV lineup
• Budget allows for the top-tier trim

The EX Premium represents the best value for most families, delivering advanced safety systems and premium audio for $3,000 over the base EX. The SX's additional $3,500 buys primarily aesthetic upgrades rather than functional technology.

Your 2026 Kia Sportage PHEV Awaits in Laval

The EX, EX Premium, and SX trims deliver the Sportage PHEV's core strengths: efficient plug-in hybrid power, spacious family-friendly interior, and standard all-wheel drive. The EX provides excellent value with features most families use daily, the EX Premium adds advanced safety and premium audio, while the SX adds refined styling for those who want the top-tier trim. Visit Lallier Kia Vimont in Laval to explore all three trims, compare their features in person, and determine which Sportage PHEV best fits your family's needs and budget.

To learn more about the 2026 Kia Sportage PHEV, visit Kia.ca