KIA SPORTAGE (2003)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 50 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
74%
Total Tests (2024)
50
Avg Mileage
70,392 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,727
Is the 2003 KIA SPORTAGE reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's 8 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the KIA brand average of 86%.
At 21 years old, 74% of KIA SPORTAGEs from 2003 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 50 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 70,392 miles.
How does the 2003 KIA SPORTAGE compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2003 KIA SPORTAGE has 70,392 miles on the clock, which is significantly below the expected 155,400 miles for a 21-year-old car. Low-mileage examples may have spent time sitting unused, so check for issues like corroded brakes or perished rubber seals.
Best year to buy a KIA SPORTAGE?
The most reliable year is the 2022 model with a 92% MOT pass rate, while the 2007 model has the lowest at 65%. The 2003 sits between the two at 74%.
How much does a 2003 KIA SPORTAGE cost to run?
Higher than average due to low pass rate
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
KIA SPORTAGE by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 92% | 1,082 | 24,731 mi |
| 2021 | 91% | 31,542 | 24,767 mi |
| 2020 | 90% | 21,479 | 30,287 mi |
| 2019 | 89% | 58,319 | 39,545 mi |
| 2018 | 88% | 60,314 | 48,804 mi |
| 2017 | 86% | 65,441 | 59,147 mi |
| 2016 | 85% | 66,048 | 67,665 mi |
| 2015 | 82% | 37,017 | 74,778 mi |
| 2014 | 81% | 34,495 | 83,477 mi |
| 2013 | 76% | 34,980 | 91,808 mi |
| 2012 | 75% | 24,908 | 99,218 mi |
| 2011 | 74% | 15,295 | 106,602 mi |
| 2010 | 73% | 7,894 | 103,955 mi |
| 2009 | 70% | 4,499 | 103,156 mi |
| 2008 | 70% | 2,910 | 106,403 mi |
| 2007 | 65% | 2,676 | 109,553 mi |
| 2006 | 66% | 2,245 | 112,934 mi |
| 2005 | 66% | 2,354 | 112,304 mi |
| 2004 | 97% | 31 | 123,135 mi |
| 2003 | 74% | 50 | 70,392 mi |
Checking a specific KIA SPORTAGE?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2003 KIA SPORTAGE
The 2003 KIA SPORTAGE is a family car with a 1991cc diesel engine. 50 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a rare model on UK roads. Among all cars from 2003, the average MOT pass rate is 72%, and this model beats that benchmark.
With an average of 70,392 miles at 21 years old, KIA SPORTAGE owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver. Very low mileage could mean the car has been garaged or used only for short trips, which can cause its own issues like battery drain and moisture buildup.
2003 KIA SPORTAGE Fuel Costs
The 1991cc diesel engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 48 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,037 per year at current diesel prices of 148p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year). Diesel cars of this age should have their DPF (diesel particulate filter) checked, as replacements can be costly.
What does it cost to own a 2003 KIA SPORTAGE?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,727 (£144/month), broken down as £1037 fuel, £135 road tax, £55 MOT, and £500 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 74% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
KIA SPORTAGE Reliability Trend
Newer KIA SPORTAGEs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 16 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2003 KIA SPORTAGE
At 21 years old, the KIA SPORTAGE is firmly in budget territory. Purchase prices are low, but check for rust, worn suspension bushes, and electrical gremlins. A full service history is especially valuable at this age. If you're flexible on year, the 2022 model has the highest pass rate at 92%. Note: with only 50 tests in our data, these figures should be treated as indicative rather than definitive.
Alternatives to the 2003 KIA SPORTAGE
The KIA SPORTAGE is actually the most reliable option among similar diesel family cars from this era. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- VOLKSWAGEN GOLF (2005) 72% pass rate (-2%) from 41,401 tests
- VAUXHALL ASTRA (2005) 69% pass rate (-5%) from 29,377 tests
- HONDA CIVIC (2005) 73% pass rate (-1%) from 24,685 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN TRANSPORTER (2005) 72% pass rate (-2%) from 20,813 tests