2026 Kia Sportage: A Subtle Refresh with Tech Upgrades

Kia has unveiled the refreshed 2026 Sportage at the Los Angeles Auto Show. This update brings subtle design tweaks, enhanced technology, and slight power boosts for the electrified variants.

Exterior Design: The 2026 Sportage features a revised front fascia with vertically stacked headlights and a reshaped grille. The side profile remains largely unchanged, but new wheel designs add visual distinction. The rear end receives a minor update with a redesigned bumper and taillight graphics.

Interior: Inside, the Sportage boasts a new two-spoke steering wheel, a cleaner dashboard layout, and standard dual 12.3-inch digital displays. Physical controls for climate and audio functions are retained, ensuring user-friendly operation. The interior also offers optional features like a 10-inch head-up display, Harman Kardon audio system, heated rear seats, and advanced driver assistance systems.

Powertrain: The entry-level Sportage continues to be powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The hybrid variant receives a power boost, thanks to a stronger electric motor and optimized regenerative braking. The plug-in hybrid version also gains a slight power increase.

Trim Levels and Drivetrain Options: The Sportage lineup includes a variety of trims, including the rugged X-Line and X-Pro versions. Both FWD and AWD configurations are available for the ICE and hybrid models, while the PHEV is exclusively offered with AWD.