The upgraded 2026 Sportage is set to arrive in Kia showrooms soon, bringing enhancements to the exterior and interior design, technology, and safety features. The new model sees the introduction of all-wheel drive hybrid variants.
As with the existing diesel powertrain, 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol variants (SX+ and GT-Line) are now matched with an eight-speed torque converter automatic transmission. The four trim levels continue as the S, SX, SX+ and GT-Line.
The new Sportage’s front end features multiple updates, including the front bumper design, vertically stacked star map headlights, bold indicator lights and a new grille. The latter takes its cues from the new Sorento.
The rear design has been subtly tweaked to appear more contemporary, with redesigned tail-light graphics and revised rear bumper elements that enhance its overall rugged appearance, while complementing the new signature front lighting design.
All four trim levels feature new alloy wheel designs, with the hybrid GT-Line featuring a unique 18-inch design compared to the 19-inch wheels fitted to petrol/diesel GT-Line variants. Wolf Grey and Heritage Blue join the paint options.
Inside, all 2026 Sportage variants feature a redesigned two-spoke steering wheel, with a 12.3-inch multimedia display now fitted to all variants, which steps up to the latest Connected Car Navigation Cockpit (ccNC) technology.
It brings Kia Connect connected services to the Sportage for the first time (complimentary for 7-years), along with over-the-air software updates. This enables the Sportage to undergo constant wireless improvements, including maps.
The technology suite also brings Kia’s Smart Key with Push Button Start as standard across the new Sportage range, along with a wireless phone charger for all grades SX+ and above.
In addition to the dual 12.3-inch screens in the dash, a head-up display can be found in GT-Line variants. The new Sportage SX+ and GT-Line adds highway driving assist to its already impressive range of safety technology.
In the case of petrol models, the 2.0-litre petrol S variant kicks off the range in front-wheel drive, priced at $37,990 and tops out with the 1.6-litre turbo offering in all-wheel drive GT-Line trim at $53,990.
The 2.0-litre diesel powertrain is paired to an all AWD line-up that starts with the S at $43,390 and finishes with the GT-Line at $56,400. Hybrid models start with a FWD SX at $46,450 and round out with an AWD GT-Line for $60,370. All prices are plus on-roads.
An official availability date is yet to be confirmed. To find out more, talk to your local Kia dealership.
