The face-lifted Sportage has received a nip and tuck, bringing it more in-line with its other Kia siblings. Thankfully, the familiar, practical and family-friendly SUV remains, and now features straight-lined daytime running lights.
There are even design elements from the Tasman ute across the front grille (which comes with louvres that open and close to improve cooling). The consequence is that it now doesn’t stand out as much as it used to.
This likely won’t be a problem for its potential customers, and nor will the fact that the side and rear profiles remain unchanged. It means the Sportage still has that sporty, modern roofline and misses out on the handlebar styled tail lights.
Subtle changes for the keen-eyed are there however, as well as a new set of rims across the line up. In GT-Line form, the Hybrid wears 18-inch wheels wrapped in Nexen tyres, while for some reason the non-hybrid versions are given a 19-inch offering.
You can get into the GT-Line Hybrid AWD that we are testing here from $60,370 (or from $57,370 for a front-wheel drive version). The 1.6-litre four cylinder petrol engine and its electric partner puts out a combined 173kW and 367Nm – to all four wheels.
Kia claims a combined 5.3-litres/100km and we managed 5.9-litres. That’s not at all bad and translated to around 800km in range on a single tank. In fact, it’s close to the front-wheel drive SX Hybrid, where we managed 5.6-litres/100km.
The interior is comfortable for up to five occupants and at this trim level there’s plenty of grey leather covering the seats and a new style steering wheel. Updated screens, which are different to those found in the K4 and EV models, feature.
The twin screens continue to provide instruments and infotainment in a familiar arrangement. HVAC and radio controls sit on a separate multi-function display in the centre console – much like its predecessor and the larger Sorento.
We’ll admit that we quite like this arrangement over the newer offering that places these controls between the two main screens. Phone connectivity is all wireless now with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay available.
A wireless charger sits at the front of the centre console. It does a good job but is quite slow when taking on music and navigation duties. It was even discharging when the phone battery got particularly hot.
There’s plenty of practicality and comfort features throughout the cabin though, with the front seats heated and ventilated, a heated steering wheel and loads of storage areas. It means the Sportage ticks the family friendly box for road trips and school drop-offs.
The rear seats feel spacious and comfortable, with two USB ports available, AC vents, cupholders in the doors, and a fold-down centre armrest. There are three rear tether points and two ISOFIX positions.
While fully occupied on a road trip, the only real complaint from the rear was that the audio levels from the Harman Kardon system were low to non-existent – possibly due to the speakers being positioned at the bottom of the doors.
The inclusion of a large glass sunshade and sunroof helps bring some light and airiness to the cabin. Boot space comes in at a generous 586-litres and up to 1872-litres with the second row folded down.
If you’re doing your homework, both of those numbers beat out the RAV4. For a hybrid, our Sportage also included a space saver spare tyre, which will be a positive for some. Like other Kia’s, the GT-Line comes equipped with a smart power tailgate.
It can be opened just by standing near the rear of the car with the keys in your pocket. No leg sweeping required. Driving the Sportage is smooth and surprisingly quiet (depending on the road surface).
The hybrid comes with three drive modes including Eco, Sport and My Drive (missing out on Normal – found in the internal combustion variants). You’ll also find a trio of terrain modes (Snow, Mud and Sand).
There are paddle shifters behind the steering wheel for gear selection, or to change the amount of brake regeneration in Eco mode. That quietness also makes the car deceptively fast as the speed quietly catches up on you if you’re not too careful.
Don’t worry though, the Kia safety suite includes speed limit warnings and all the chimes and bells we have come to expect and deactivate at first chance. They’ve at least made this easy to do, simply by pressing and holding the Mute button on the steering wheel.
Blind spot monitors and cameras, combined with a surround view monitor are available to assist in parking situations, and the GT-Line also comes with remote smart park assist, allowing you to start the car from the key fob and navigate it forwards or backwards.
If you want to get really crazy, you can go for a walk with your car (it’s a surprisingly relaxing experience). While a common feature in high-spec Kia and Hyundai vehicles, it’s still a neat party trick. A 7-year unlimited warranty provides piece of mind.
The Sportage continues to nail the brief of a family friendly five-seat medium sized SUV. While it might not stand out as much as its pre-facelifted predecessor, it continues to offer a practical and comfortable platform for growing families.
You can find out more on the Kia Australia website, or by talking to your local dealership. To get a low rate finance quote, talk to Australia’s best reviewed car finance broker; Credit One. To see a great range of vehicles for sale, check out OnlyCars.com.au.
Our test vehicle was provided by Kia Australia for independent review purposes. Exhaust Notes Australia has not been paid to review this vehicle.
