The Sportage, a beloved model from Kia, is receiving an update that draws inspiration from the brand's newest electrified vehicles.
With these updates, the vehicle remains competitive in the busy compact crossover market, thanks to its improved exterior and interior features.
Sleek Exterior Upgrades: The 2026 Sportage showcases notable enhancements to its front end, drawing inspiration from Kia's EV5 and EV9 SUVs. Here are the details of the new look:
1. Boomerang-style LED headlamps with a fun stacked design. 2. Vertical DRLs and a wider rectangular grille give it a modern, angular look that's sure to impress.
3. Square fog lights snugly fit into a freshly redesigned front bumper. 4. New LED taillights with stylish angular ‘C-clamp’ elements.
5. Redesigned rear bumper sporting slimmer reflectors and a graceful curve towards the rear wheels.
Modernized Interior: The Sportage features an impressive panoramic display that combines:
– A 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
– Climate controls
– An infotainment screen with refreshed graphics.
This setup comes with integrated navigation, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and connected services. There are some exciting updates to look forward to, such as a fresh-
steering wheel design and enhanced ambient lighting. The cabin materials have been refined and new trim elements have been added, making for a more enjoyable experience.
Powertrain Consistency: Although the design has received a fresh update, the powertrain options remain mostly unchanged. Here's the lineup:
2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers a peppy 187 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque.
Hybridized 1.6-liter turbocharged engine that offers a spirited 227 hp.
A plug-indirectly compete hybrid model with an impressive 261 hp. Some markets will still have the option of the 2.0-liter diesel engine.
Most models will now come with all-wheel drive as a standard feature.
Competitive Positioning and Release: The refreshed Sportage will directly compete with popular rivals such as the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, and Mazda CX-5.
The official debut is anticipated to take place later this year, and sales are set to begin in early 2025 as a 2026 model.