Table of Contents
Design and Exterior Changes
Under the hood of the facelift, Kia has opted for a more aggressive yet cleaner look. The front grill has been reshaped into a vertical, square‑shaped design that echoes the styling cues of the EV3 and EV9. The headlights and taillights have been updated, but the changes are largely confined to the front fascia. The side profile remains largely unchanged, with the only noticeable difference being the new wheel designs that give the car a more squared appearance. At the rear, subtle bumper bumps and a slightly altered reflector shape replace the old styling, while the light clusters keep their familiar shape with minor detailing tweaks. Overall, the facelift gives the Sportage a more contemporary, upscale feel without a complete overhaul.
Powertrain and Performance
The new Sportage streamlines its engine lineup to a single 1.6‑litre turbocharged petrol. Buyers can choose between a 150‑horsepower version or a 240‑horsepower hybrid that pairs the petrol engine with an electric motor. The hybrid remains an automatic, while the petrol models are available in both manual and automatic. Front‑wheel drive is standard, with optional all‑wheel drive. In the future, a plug‑in hybrid is expected, though real‑world fuel economy may fall short of advertised figures. On the road, the 240‑hp hybrid accelerates from 0‑60 mph in 7.2 seconds and completes the quarter‑mile in 15.4 seconds, a performance comparable to older performance cars like the Golf R32.
Interior and Technology
Inside, Kia has focused on quality rather than quantity. The glossy trim that previously scratched easily has been replaced with a more durable material, and the steering wheel feels solid. The centre console has been simplified, with touch‑sensitive climate controls that can be toggled between media and navigation. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are now standard, and a digital driver display provides ample information. However, the entry‑level models lack several conveniences that appear only on the top spec, such as wireless charging, a hands‑free tailgate, and a surround‑view camera. The cabin remains spacious, with large cup holders, a 12‑volt socket, and USB ports, but some hard plastic on the door tops is still noticeable.
Practicality and Space
The Sportage’s boot capacity stays at 590 litres, a figure that translates to seven standard suitcases in real life. While the manufacturer claims the space is generous, the layout can be tight; the rear seats cannot be folded flat, and the rear door’s shallow window and thick pillar create a blind spot. The hands‑free tailgate opens automatically when you step away, and the load‑lift feature helps with heavy items. The vehicle’s weight, over 1,700 kg due to the hybrid system and optional all‑wheel drive, gives it a solid feel but also means the brakes are crucial. A 60‑mph to stop test recorded 34 metres, a respectable figure for a family SUV.
Pricing, Value, and Recommendation
Pricing has shifted from the Sportage’s historic low‑cost position to a more mid‑range stance. The base model starts around £31,000, matching rivals such as the Nissan Qashqai and Skoda Karoq, while the top‑spec variant tops out near £44,000. Discounts through dealer programmes can bring the price down by a few thousand pounds, but the overall value depends on the chosen trim. For buyers who need a diesel, the Sportage no longer offers one, limiting options. Nonetheless, the updated interior, improved performance, and practical features make the new Sportage a solid choice for families who value space and reliability over outright performance.
Final Thoughts
Overall, Kia’s refreshed Sportage delivers a more modern exterior, a streamlined powertrain, and a cabin that feels more premium, while still offering the practicality that has made the model popular. The loss of a diesel option and the limited availability of certain conveniences on lower trims are notable drawbacks, but the vehicle’s performance, spaciousness, and reasonable pricing keep it competitive in the compact SUV segment. If you’re a family looking for a reliable, well‑equipped vehicle and you’re comfortable with a petrol‑only engine, the new Sportage remains a compelling option.