On November 5, Kia unveiled the Sportage facelift in South Korea and today thanks to our colleagues at ShortsCar we can have a first look to the upgraded model of the popular fifth-generation Sportage for the US-market.
Modernized Exterior and Interior Design
The New Sportage blends a high-tech design language with a bold and futuristic appearance. It now sports Kia’s signature Starmap lighting in the front, creating a striking and cohesive look that adds a sense of grandeur. The new black radiator grille with horizontal patterns, paired with the wide intake and vertical elements on the bumper, completes the powerful front design.
For the interior, Kia retained the previous design identity while adding a high-tech touch. A double D-cut steering wheel and panoramic curved display with an advanced connected car navigation system (ccNC) elevate the cabin’s luxury feel.
Kia’s X-Line trim offers unique design touches such as a rugged bumper, exclusive grille and emblems, 19-inch wheels, and premium interior details, including black suede headlining. Eight exterior color options, including the new Wolf Gray and Heritage Blue, allow buyers to tailor the look of their Sportage, while three interior colors are available, including the new Lounge Brown.
Enhanced Driving Performance with New Transmission and Technology
The New Sportage 1.6-liter gasoline turbo model features an 8-speed automatic transmission, offering a smoother driving experience. The hybrid model includes motor output enhancements for better performance, and a smart regenerative braking system automatically adjusts braking based on road conditions and navigation data. For added convenience, the car also has infant driving mode, ensuring a smoother and more comfortable ride for young passengers.
Advanced Safety and Connectivity Features
Kia equipped the New Sportage with advanced safety features to enhance the driving experience. Key inclusions are:
- Steering Wheel Grip Detection using capacitive sensors for a safer grip
- Head-Up Display (HUD) that minimizes the need to look away from the road
- Highway Driving Assist 2 with lane change assistance
- Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, which includes intersection, side, and steering assist functions
The vehicle’s infotainment system, ccNC, allows over-the-air software updates, ensuring the latest in connectivity.
Pricing and Availability
Below is the pricing breakdown in Korean Won, converted to approximate USD and EUR values for key trims. Rates may vary based on exchange rates:
1.6 Gasoline Turbo Models:
• Prestige: 28,360,000 KRW (~$21,000 / ~€19,500)
• Noblesse: 31,950,000 KRW (~$23,600 / ~€22,000)
• Signature: 34,600,000 KRW (~$25,500 / ~€23,800)
• X-Line: 35,250,000 KRW (~$26,000 / ~€24,200)
2.0 LPi Models:
• Prestige: 29,010,000 KRW (~$21,600 / ~€20,000)
• Noblesse: 32,600,000 KRW (~$24,100 / ~€22,500)
• Signature: 35,250,000 KRW (~$26,000 / ~€24,200)
• X-Line: 35,900,000 KRW (~$26,500 / ~€24,700)
1.6 Gasoline Turbo Hybrid Models (before eco-tax incentives):
• Prestige: 34,580,000 KRW (~$25,500 / ~€24,000)
• Noblesse: 37,770,000 KRW (~$27,800 / ~€26,200)
• Signature: 40,420,000 KRW (~$29,800 / ~€28,000)
• X-Line: 41,070,000 KRW (~$30,300 / ~€28,400)
