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 |
For the Kia Sportage IV produced from 2015 to 2021 with the petrol engines 1.6 T-GDI (130 kW) Start-Stop, 1.6 T-GDI 4WD (130 kW) Start-Stop, and 1.6 GDI (97 kW) Start-Stop, selecting the correct battery is essential for reliable engine start, proper operation of the vehicle’s electrical systems, and compatibility with the Start-Stop function, which is standard on these engines. All of these engines are equipped with modern Start-Stop technology, which places higher demands on the battery in terms of durability, capacity, and the ability to deliver high starting currents repeatedly.
For these specific petrol engines, the best-suited batteries belong to the AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) category, which are designed to handle the increased cycling and power requirements associated with Start-Stop systems. The recommended battery size for these engines is typically the 096 (UK code) or L3 (DIN code) group, with physical dimensions of 278 mm length, 175 mm width, and 190 mm height. Suitable batteries include models such as Bosch S5 AGM S5A 08, Varta Silver Dynamic AGM E39, Exide AGM EK700 or EK720, Halfords Advanced AGM 096, and Lucas Fusion AGM LF096. These batteries provide a capacity in the range of 70–72 Ah and a cold cranking amperage (CCA) of 720–760 A, meeting the high current demands for cold starts and frequent restarts in traffic.
All recommended batteries share the same terminal layout (polarity 0, terminal type 1), are mounted using the B13 hold-down system, and feature AGM construction, ensuring vibration resistance and longer service life under urban driving conditions. When replacing the battery in any of these Kia Sportage IV petrol models, it is important to choose an AGM battery with the correct physical dimensions and electrical specifications to guarantee optimal performance and system compatibility.
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 |
For the Kia Sportage IV diesel engines 1.6 CRDi 115 (85 kW) without Start-Stop, 1.6 CRDi 136 (100 kW) without Start-Stop, and 1.6 CRDi 136 4WD (100 kW) without Start-Stop, battery selection is oriented towards conventional lead-acid types rather than AGM or EFB models, as these engines are not equipped with Start-Stop technology. The absence of Start-Stop reduces the cycling demands on the battery, so a standard maintenance-free flooded battery is the optimal choice for these variants.
The most suitable battery size for these diesel engines is the 096 (UK code) or L3 (DIN code) group, featuring dimensions of 278 mm in length, 175 mm in width, and 190 mm in height. These batteries are designed with a terminal layout of polarity 0 (positive on the right), terminal type 1, and are installed using the B13 hold-down system. Recommended capacities typically range from 70 to 78 Ah to provide sufficient power for reliable cold starts and to support all vehicle electronics. Cold cranking amperage (CCA) values between 640 and 780 A ensure strong starting performance, particularly in winter conditions when diesel engines require higher starting currents.
Among the most recommended models for these engines are the Bosch S3 S30 08 (70 Ah, 640 A), Bosch S4 S40 08 (74 Ah, 680 A), Bosch S5 S50 08 (77 Ah, 780 A), as well as the Varta Black Dynamic E13, Blue Dynamic E11, and Silver Dynamic E44, which offer similar capacities and CCA ratings. Exide also provides excellent options with the Premium EA770, Excell EB740, and Classic EC700, while Halfords and Lucas offer variants such as HCB 096, HB 096, LS096, and LP096, all matching the required dimensions and specifications. Choosing any of these batteries will ensure dependable operation and longevity in the Kia Sportage IV diesel engines without Start-Stop, maintaining full compatibility with the vehicle’s original electrical system.
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 |
For the Kia Sportage IV equipped with the 1.6 CRDi 136 4WD (100 kW) Start-Stop, 1.6 CRDi 136 (100 kW) Start-Stop, and 1.6 CRDi 115 (85 kW) Start-Stop diesel engines, battery selection must take into account the specific requirements of the Start-Stop technology integrated into these models. Start-Stop systems demand batteries that can withstand frequent engine restarts, deep cycling, and periods of high electrical load, making conventional flooded batteries unsuitable for these engines. Instead, AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) batteries are recommended due to their enhanced robustness, superior charge acceptance, and ability to deliver high starting currents consistently.
The ideal battery size for all three of these diesel Start-Stop engines is the 096 (UK code) or L3 (DIN code) group, which means dimensions of 278 mm in length, 175 mm in width, and 190 mm in height. These batteries feature a terminal layout with polarity 0 (positive terminal on the right), terminal type 1, and utilize the B13 hold-down system for secure installation. The recommended capacity for these AGM batteries ranges from 70 to 72 Ah, ensuring sufficient reserve power for both engine cranking and supporting the vehicle’s numerous electronic systems. Cold cranking amperage (CCA) should be at least 720 A, with most high-quality options offering 760 A, to guarantee reliable starting performance in all conditions, especially during cold weather when diesel engines require additional power.
Among the best-matched AGM batteries for these 1.6 CRDi Start-Stop engines are the Bosch S5 AGM S5A 08, Varta Silver Dynamic AGM E39, Exide AGM EK700, Exide AGM EK720, Halfords Advanced AGM 096, Halfords Standard AGM 096, and Lucas Fusion AGM LF096. All of these models provide the necessary 70–72 Ah capacity, deliver up to 760 A of starting power, and are manufactured to meet or exceed the original equipment standards for Start-Stop diesel vehicles. Their AGM construction ensures improved resistance to vibration, better charge retention, and longer service life even under demanding urban driving conditions, characterized by frequent stops and starts. When replacing the battery in any of these Kia Sportage IV diesel models with Start-Stop, it is essential to select an AGM battery of the correct size and high enough specifications to maintain optimal engine performance, electrical reliability, and full compatibility with the vehicle’s advanced energy management systems.
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 Excell EB954 | 95 Ah 720 A | 306x173x222 mm | More |
| Exide Premium EA954 | 95 Ah 800 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 |
For the Kia Sportage IV equipped with the 2.0 CRDi 136 (100 kW) without Start-Stop, 2.0 CRDi 136 4WD (100 kW) without Start-Stop, and 2.0 CRDi 185 4WD (136 kW) without Start-Stop diesel engines, battery selection focuses on robust conventional lead-acid units, as these variants do not utilize Start-Stop technology. These engines, being larger capacity diesels, require batteries with higher cold cranking amperage (CCA) for reliable starting, especially in colder climates, and ample reserve capacity to support all vehicle electrical systems and ancillary equipment.
The recommended battery group for these 2.0 CRDi diesel engines is the larger 019 (UK code) or L5 (DIN code) format, which offers increased physical size and higher electrical performance compared to batteries used in lower displacement engines. The typical dimensions for compatible batteries are approximately 306 mm in length, 173–175 mm in width, and 222–225 mm in height. The standard polarity layout is 0 (positive terminal on the right), terminal type 1, and the batteries are mounted using the Korean B1 or B01 hold-down system, which matches the original fitment in these Kia models.
Battery capacities for these engines should range from 95 to 100 Ah to ensure a reliable power reserve under all operating conditions. Suitable models include the Exide Premium EA954 and Exide Excell EB954, both offering 95 Ah capacity and delivering 800 A and 720 A CCA respectively, as well as the Bosch S4 S40 28 and Varta Blue Dynamic G7, which provide 95 Ah and an impressive 830 A CCA for enhanced starting performance. Another strong option is the Lucas Supreme LS249, rated at 100 Ah and 800 A CCA, ensuring robust cranking ability even during harsh winter starts.
These batteries have a standard construction, meaning they are maintenance-free flooded lead-acid types. Their increased capacity and high CCA ratings make them especially well-suited to the higher electrical and starting demands of the 2.0 CRDi engines, whether in front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive configurations. When replacing the battery in any of these Kia Sportage IV 2.0 CRDi diesel models, it is crucial to select a battery with the correct physical size, mounting system, and electrical rating to maintain full compatibility and ensure long-term reliability of the vehicle’s starting and electrical systems.
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 |
For the Kia Sportage IV diesel engines equipped with Start-Stop technology—specifically the 1.7 CRDi (85 kW) Start-Stop, 1.7 CRDi (104 kW) Start-Stop, 2.0 CRDi 136 (100 kW) Start-Stop, 2.0 CRDi 136 4WD (100 kW) Start-Stop, and 2.0 CRDi 185 4WD (136 kW) Start-Stop—the demands on the battery are significantly higher than in non-Start-Stop variants. These engines require advanced batteries capable of withstanding frequent engine restarts, deep discharge cycles, and high current loads, especially in everyday urban driving. As such, only AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) batteries are recommended to ensure consistent performance, system longevity, and full compatibility with the vehicle’s energy management systems.
The optimal battery group for these Start-Stop diesel engines is the larger 110 (UK code) or L4 (DIN code), featuring dimensions of approximately 315 mm in length, 175 mm in width, and 190 mm in height. All recommended models share polarity layout 0 (positive terminal on the right), terminal type 1, and use the B13 hold-down system, matching the original battery fitment. Leading AGM battery options for these engines include the Bosch S5 AGM S5A 11, Varta Silver Dynamic AGM F21, Exide AGM EK800 and EK820, Lucas Fusion AGM LF115, and Halfords Advanced AGM 115. These models provide a capacity of 80–82 Ah and a cold cranking amperage (CCA) of 800 A, delivering the high starting power necessary for modern diesel engines with Start-Stop technology.
The AGM construction of these batteries ensures superior resistance to vibration, improved cycle life, and enhanced charge acceptance—qualities essential for coping with the frequent charge and discharge cycles imposed by Start-Stop systems. When replacing the battery in any of these Kia Sportage IV diesel Start-Stop models, it is crucial to select an AGM battery of the correct size and specification to maintain optimal engine start reliability, electrical system performance, and compliance with the manufacturer’s requirements. Using any of the recommended AGM batteries listed above will guarantee dependable service and long-term durability, even under the demanding conditions typical of urban and mixed driving.
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!