Choosing the right battery for your Kia Sportage 4 (2015–2021) is crucial to ensure optimal performance, reliability, and longevity. The vehicle is available with a variety of engine types, and each version has specific battery requirements depending on whether it features Start-Stop technology and whether it’s powered by petrol or diesel. Understanding the correct specifications is the first step toward selecting the most suitable battery.
Most petrol and diesel engines equipped with Start-Stop systems in the Kia Sportage 4 require AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) batteries. These are high-performance batteries designed to handle frequent engine starts and deeper cycles. For example, models such as the 1.6 GDI and 1.6 T-GDI petrol engines, as well as the 1.6 CRDi diesel variants with Start-Stop, typically use AGM batteries with a capacity of around 70–72 Ah and a cold cranking amperage (CCA) between 720–760 A. Some of the compatible AGM batteries for these engines include the Bosch S5A 08, Exide EK700 or EK720, Varta E39, Halfords AGM 096, and Lucas LF096. These are just examples, and other equivalents with similar specs may also fit.
For the more powerful diesel engines like the 1.7 CRDi and 2.0 CRDi versions with Start-Stop, a slightly higher capacity AGM battery is required, typically around 80–82 Ah with 800 A CCA. This reflects the higher power demand and the need for robust cycling capabilities. Sample batteries that match these requirements are Bosch S5A 11, Exide EK800 or EK820, Varta F21, Lucas LF115, and Halfords AGM 115. These batteries offer not only better starting performance in colder climates but also support the electrical demands of modern vehicles equipped with numerous electronic systems.
Vehicles that do not include Start-Stop systems can use conventional lead-acid batteries, which are generally more affordable and sufficient for standard starting needs. For instance, the 1.6 CRDi diesel engines without Start-Stop typically require batteries with capacities ranging from 70 to 78 Ah and a CCA between 640 and 780 A. Examples of suitable lead-acid batteries include Bosch S30 08, S40 08, S50 08, Exide EA770, EB740, EC700, and Varta E11, E13, or E44. These batteries perform reliably under typical driving conditions, offering a good balance between price and performance.
The 2.0 CRDi diesel variants without Start-Stop, including the 4WD and high-output versions, call for larger lead-acid batteries with a capacity of 95–100 Ah and a cold cranking power ranging from 720 to 830 A. Examples of compatible batteries are Bosch S40 28, Exide EA954 or EB954, Lucas LS249, and Varta G7. An important note for these engines is that they often require different battery mounting types than the commonly used B13. These cars may use B01, B1, or Korean B1 battery mounts, so it is essential to double-check the terminal orientation and hold-down compatibility before buying.
One interesting thing about batteries for the Kia Sportage 4 is how much the choice depends on the presence of the Start-Stop system. Vehicles with Start-Stop put a much greater load on the battery due to frequent engine restarts, so AGM batteries are not just a recommendation—they’re a necessity. Installing a standard battery in a Start-Stop vehicle can lead to premature failure, as standard batteries aren’t designed for this type of duty cycle.
Another helpful tip is to look out for enhanced flooded batteries (EFB) as a potential middle ground for some Start-Stop vehicles, though AGM remains the gold standard for durability and performance in this context. Also, when replacing your battery, it’s a good idea to reset the vehicle’s battery management system, if applicable, to ensure proper charging and performance.
In summary, whether your Kia Sportage 4 runs on petrol or diesel, and whether it has Start-Stop or not, determines the type and capacity of battery you need. AGM batteries are essential for Start-Stop systems, while traditional lead-acid batteries suffice for standard engines. Always check the mounting type and confirm compatibility to avoid installation issues. A well-chosen battery not only guarantees smooth starts but also helps protect the electronic systems of your vehicle.
Kia Sportage in version 4 was produced in the years 2015 – 2021. The following table presents information about batteries that match each of the engines available on the market.
Basic parameters of batteries suitable for Kia Sportage (2015-2021):
| Layout | Terminal types | Base hold-down |
|---|---|---|
| 0 – positive on the right side | 1 | B13 |
| 0 – positive on the right side | 1 | Korean B1 |
| 0 – positive on the right side | 1 | B01 |
| 0 – positive on the right side | 1 | B1 |
Kia Sportage 4 – petrol engines:
- 1.6 GDI (97 kW) – with Start-Stop
- 1.6 T-GDI (130 kW) – with Start-Stop
- 1.6 T-GDI 4WD (130 kW) – with Start-Stop
| Model | Capacity and CCA | Dimensions (LxWxH) | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bosch S5 AGM S5A 08 | 70 Ah 760 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide AGM EK700 | 70 Ah 760 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide AGM EK720 | 72 Ah 760 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Halfords Standard AGM 096 | 70 Ah 720 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Halfords Advanced AGM 096 | 70 Ah 760 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Lucas Fusion AGM LF096 | 70 Ah 760 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Varta Silver Dynamic AGM E39 | 70 Ah 760 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
Kia Sportage 4 – diesel engines:
- 1.6 CRDi 115 (85 kW)
- 1.6 CRDi 136 (100 kW)
- 1.6 CRDi 136 4WD (100 kW)
| Model | Capacity and CCA | Dimensions (LxWxH) | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bosch S3 S30 08 | 70 Ah 640 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Bosch S4 S40 08 | 74 Ah 680 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Bosch S5 S50 08 | 77 Ah 780 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide Classic EC700 | 70 Ah 640 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide Excell EB740 | 74 Ah 680 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide Premium EA770 | 77 Ah 760 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Halfords Essentials HB 096 | 70 Ah 640 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Halfords Standard HCB 096 | 76 Ah 680 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Lucas Premium LP096 | 75 Ah 680 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Lucas Supreme LS096 | 78 Ah 780 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Varta Black Dynamic E13 | 70 Ah 640 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Varta Blue Dynamic E11 | 74 Ah 680 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Varta Silver Dynamic E44 | 77 Ah 780 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
Kia Sportage 4 – diesel engines:
- 1.6 CRDi 115 (85 kW) – with Start-Stop
- 1.6 CRDi 136 (100 kW) – with Start-Stop
- 1.6 CRDi 136 4WD (100 kW) – with Start-Stop
| Model | Capacity and CCA | Dimensions (LxWxH) | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bosch S5 AGM S5A 08 | 70 Ah 760 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide AGM EK700 | 70 Ah 760 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide AGM EK720 | 72 Ah 760 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Halfords Standard AGM 096 | 70 Ah 720 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Halfords Advanced AGM 096 | 70 Ah 760 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Lucas Fusion AGM LF096 | 70 Ah 760 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Varta Silver Dynamic AGM E39 | 70 Ah 760 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
Kia Sportage 4 – diesel engines:
- 2.0 CRDi 136 (100 kW)
- 2.0 CRDi 136 4WD (100 kW)
- 2.0 CRDi 185 4WD (136 kW)
| Model | Capacity and CCA | Dimensions (LxWxH) | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bosch S4 S40 28 | 95 Ah 830 A | 306x173x225 mm | More |
| Exide Premium EA954 | 95 Ah 800 A | 306x173x222 mm | More |
| Exide Excell EB954 | 95 Ah 720 A | 306x173x222 mm | More |
| Lucas Supreme LS249 | 100 Ah 800 A | 302x175x225 mm | More |
| Varta Blue Dynamic G7 | 95 Ah 830 A | 306x173x225 mm | More |
Kia Sportage 4 – diesel engines:
- 1.7 CRDi (104 kW) – with Start-Stop
- 1.7 CRDi (85 kW) – with Start-Stop
- 2.0 CRDi 136 (100 kW) – with Start-Stop
- 2.0 CRDi 136 4WD (100 kW) – with Start-Stop
- 2.0 CRDi 185 4WD (136 kW) – with Start-Stop
| Model | Capacity and CCA | Dimensions (LxWxH) | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bosch S5 AGM S5A 11 | 80 Ah 800 A | 315x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide AGM EK800 | 80 Ah 800 A | 315x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide AGM EK820 | 82 Ah 800 A | 315x175x190 mm | More |
| Halfords Advanced AGM 115 | 80 Ah 800 A | 317x175x190 mm | More |
| Lucas Fusion AGM LF115 | 80 Ah 800 A | 315x175x190 mm | More |
| Varta Silver Dynamic AGM F21 | 80 Ah 800 A | 315x175x190 mm | More |
If you’re still unsure which battery fits your Kia Sportage , or if you want to help others in their selection, please send us a photo of your current battery in the comment section at the bottom of the page. You can also send the picture to contact@whatbattery.co.uk (we will place it in the comments to also help other users). Be sure to specify the car model, year, type, as well as the engine capacity and power. We’ll do our best to assist you!