Kia has revealed a refreshed version of its Sportage SUV in South Korea, three years after the introduction of its fifth-generation model. This facelift brings a bolder front design, a more luxurious interior, and some mechanical improvements, aiming to strengthen the Sportage’s position in a highly competitive market.
The updated design aligns the Sportage with Kia’s expanding lineup of electric vehicles, following a strategy used for other models like the Picanto, Sorento, and K8. The most notable change is the SUV’s front end, which now features vertically stacked, more aggressive headlights, larger bumper intakes, and a redesigned grille, giving the Sportage a more robust and upright appearance.
The side profile remains mostly unchanged, except for new front fenders and redesigned alloy wheels ranging from 17 to 19 inches. The rear of the SUV sees updated LED taillight graphics and minor tweaks to the bumper. The top-tier X-Line trim stands out with sportier bumpers, additional black accents, and exclusive 19-inch wheels.
This facelift applies not only to the long-wheelbase version, which is aimed at markets like Korea, North America, and Australia, but is also expected to be adapted for the shorter, Europe-focused model.
Inside, the Sportage now boasts a more modern, curved digital cockpit with dual 12.3-inch screens, along with a new head-up display. The refreshed cabin includes a contemporary two-spoke steering wheel, mood lighting, slimmer A/C vents, and updated control buttons. Safety features have been enhanced with a grip detection system, a steering wheel vibration alert, a driver-monitoring camera, and the latest advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS).
Buyers can choose between three interior color schemes—Lounge Brown, Black, and Navy Gray—and eight exterior paint options.
In terms of powertrains, the entry-level Sportage in Korea continues to use a 2.0-liter LPG engine producing 144 hp. The turbocharged 1.6-liter gasoline engine, which generates 177 hp, now comes paired with a new eight-speed automatic transmission, replacing the previous seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox for smoother shifts.
The hybrid model also sees an upgrade, with the system’s total output increasing by 5 hp. This self-charging hybrid combines the 177-hp 1.6-liter turbo engine with an electric motor that adds 64 hp. The hybrid model features improved regenerative braking, which drivers can adjust via paddle shifters, and an automatic system that adjusts braking based on road conditions using navigation input. Additionally, the hybrid Sportage includes a mode for smoother acceleration, adapted from the Hyundai Tucson.
Kia is expected to continue offering the plug-in hybrid version of the Sportage in international markets, including Europe and North America.
Chassis improvements include a new two-way damper for the front suspension, designed to reduce road noise, and additional sound insulation in key areas like the B-pillar and door trim. Sound-insulating glass, introduced in 2023, is carried over into the new model.
In South Korea, the updated Kia Sportage is priced between ₩28.36 million ($20,600) and ₩48.70 million ($35,300), depending on the powertrain and trim level. As part of a promotional campaign, Kia has also partnered with Netflix to feature its vehicles in the second season of the hit series “Squid Game.”
The U.S. version of the facelifted Kia Sportage is expected to debut next year, likely as a 2026 model.
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