The highly anticipated updated Kia Sportage is set to make its debut in UK showrooms this summer, with a starting price of £30,885. As one of the best-selling cars in the UK, the crossover has undergone a significant facelift to align its styling with newer models in the Kia lineup, such as the Picanto, Sorento, and EV3.
The exterior of the new Sportage features column-like headlights, a more prominent grille, and updated lights and bumper at the rear. These changes have resulted in a slightly longer overall length of 4540mm, while the height, width, and wheelbase remain unchanged at 1650mm, 1865mm, and 2680mm respectively.
Under the hood, buyers can choose between two powertrain options. The entry-level model comes equipped with a turbocharged 1.6-litre four-cylinder petrol engine delivering 148bhp to the front wheels through either a six-speed manual or seven-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox. For those seeking more power, the range-topping hybrid variant combines the same petrol engine with an electric motor and a six-speed automatic gearbox to produce 236bhp, with the option for four-wheel drive as well.
The pricing for the entry-level hybrid starts at £34,425, which is £1790 cheaper than the previous model. However, opting for the four-wheel-drive version will set you back £43,725. While the Sportage’s 261bhp plug-in hybrid will not be available initially, it is expected to make a return to the lineup in the near future.
Inside the revamped Sportage, drivers will find a new 12.3-inch curved infotainment touchscreen featuring an updated version of Kia’s ccNC operating system. The interior also boasts a new two-spoke steering wheel and a centrally mounted touch panel for functions like climate control.
With its refreshed design and updated technology, the new Kia Sportage promises to deliver an enhanced driving experience for customers in the UK. Stay tuned for its arrival in showrooms this summer.
