Sportage III (SL) vs Duster I: which is better?
Kia Sportage III (SL) (2010–2016) vs Renault Duster I (2010–2021): specs, fuel economy, tax and common problems.
Kia Sportage III (SL)
Renault Duster ISpecifications
| Kia Sportage III (SL) | Renault Duster I | |
|---|---|---|
| Production years | 2010–2016 | 2010–2021 |
| Body | crossover SUV | crossover SUV |
| Fuel | petrol | petrol |
| Engines | 2.0 | 2.0 |
| Power, up to | 150 hp | 143 hp |
| Torque, up to | 197 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Gearbox | automatic | manual |
| Drive | all-wheel drive | all-wheel drive |
| Length | 4 440 mm | 4 315 mm |
| Width | 1 855 mm | 1 822 mm |
| Height | 1 635 mm | 1 625 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2 640 mm | 2 673 mm |
| Ground clearance | 172 mm | 210 mm |
| Fuel tank | 58 L | 50 L |
| KZ tax 2026 (car under 10 years) | ≈ 16 475 ₸ | ≈ 16 475 ₸ |
The better value is highlighted in green.
Pros, cons and common problems
Kia Sportage III (SL)
Pros
- All-wheel-drive versions available
- Conventional automatic, no robotized gearbox or CVT
- Sold in all major markets of the region — parts and mechanics available
Cons
- Hyundai/Kia Theta II engine (G4KD, G4KE, G4KJ): cylinder scoring (especially the direct-injection G4KJ)
- Hyundai/Kia automatic: jolts on 2–3 shifts and when braking
Engine (Hyundai/Kia Theta II (G4KD, G4KE, G4KJ)): cylinder scoring (especially the direct-injection G4KJ); knocking and oil consumption; catalytic converter debris in the cylinders.
Gearbox (Hyundai/Kia automatic): kicks on the 2–3 shift and when braking; solenoid and clutch pack wear at high mileage.
Renault Duster I
Pros
- All-wheel-drive versions available
- High ground clearance: 210 mm
- Local assembly: Russia
Cons
- Engine Renault K4M/K7M/F4R: a snapped timing belt bends the valves
Engine (Renault K4M/K7M/F4R): a snapped timing belt bends the valves; ignition coil failures (K4M); oil consumption on the F4R.
Which one to choose
- Sportage III (SL) — if you care more about: power, torque, fuel tank.
- Duster I — if you care more about: wheelbase, ground clearance.
The condition of a specific car matters more than the model: check the service history and get the engine and gearbox inspected before buying.
FAQ
Which is more powerful: Sportage III (SL) or Duster I?
Sportage III (SL): up to 150 hp, Duster I: up to 143 hp.
Which has more ground clearance?
Sportage III (SL): 172 mm, Duster I: 210 mm.
What is the vehicle tax in Kazakhstan?
For 2026, for a car under 10 years old: Sportage III (SL) — about 16 475 ₸, Duster I — about 16 475 ₸ (base engine). A 0.7 factor applies to cars aged 10–20 years and 0.5 to cars over 20.