2017 KIA Sportage 2.0L Diesel · RX67 UFT

The 2.0-litre CRDi diesel in this generation of Sportage returns a real-world fuel economy figure of approximately 42-48 mpg, which translates to fuel costs of around £1,400-£1,600 per year for a typical driver covering 8,000-10,000 miles. Road tax sits in a reasonable bracket for a diesel SUV of this age, and the vehicle's CO2 output should keep annual VED costs manageable for a pre-April 2017 registered car, though it is worth confirming the exact band from the V5C. Insurance for a 2017 Sportage 2.0 diesel typically falls into group 19-21, so expect premiums in the £450-£650 range for an average UK driver.

Maintenance costs are moderate for the sector. Routine servicing on a 2.0 diesel Sportage averages £200-£350 per visit through a Kia dealer, with independent specialists usually coming in 20-30% cheaper. The brake disc and pad wear highlighted as a top MOT failure across the model suggests budgeting for front brake discs and pads every 30,000-40,000 miles (around £250-£350 fitted), with rear items typically lasting longer. Including fuel, tax, insurance, and routine maintenance, realistic annual running costs should fall in the £2,200-£2,600 range for moderate use.

Although this individual vehicle has passed five MOT tests without recorded defects, the Sportage model as a whole shows tyre, brake pad, and brake disc as the most common failure points. A physical inspection should therefore include a close look at all four tyres for uneven wear patterns (which can indicate alignment or suspension issues), a check of brake pad thickness through the wheels, and an inspection of the brake disc surfaces for lipping or scoring. Even though no defects were recorded at the November 2025 test at 48,335 miles, brake components may be approaching wear thresholds and warrant a current measurement.

Beyond the MOT-aligned items, focus on diesel-specific weak points. Listen for any rattle from the timing chain area on cold start, check for smoke from the exhaust (blue suggests oil burn, black suggests over-fuelling), and confirm that the DPF has not triggered any warning lights. Inspect the underside for oil leaks from the sump, turbo, and injector area. On the bodywork, look for evidence of previous accident repair, particularly panel alignment gaps and paint thickness readings, as the silver finish can mask poorly blended resprays. Finally, test all electrical items including the climate control, heated seats if fitted, reversing camera, and infotainment screen for stuck pixels or delamination — known issues on this generation.