Kia is preparing to unveil the refreshed version of its popular Sportage, which is set for its official debut in November. This facelift comes three years after the fifth-generation model first launched in 2021, bringing a range of updates that enhance both style and technology.
The first official teaser offers a glimpse of the Sportage’s updated lighting, focusing on the redesigned LED headlights and taillights. These sharp, vertically-stacked lights bring the compact SUV’s front end in line with Kia’s evolving design language, giving it a more angular and refined look. The teaser also hints at tweaks to the grille, creating a more robust, boxy appearance.
While the SUV’s overall profile is expected to remain similar, the rear will feature refreshed LED taillight graphics. Both the long-wheelbase variant—sold in markets like Korea, North America, and Australia—and the short-wheelbase version available in Europe will receive these updates.
This facelift follows the design updates that Kia has applied to other models like the Picanto, Sorento, Carnival, and K8, aligning their aesthetic with the brand’s growing EV lineup.
Under the hood, the Sportage is expected to retain its current powertrain options, which include gasoline, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid variants. Small enhancements in efficiency may be introduced, but the SUV will continue to share its platform with the Hyundai Tucson.
Alongside exterior updates, spy shots have hinted at interior improvements, including a revised dashboard with a large curved display, new switchgear, and an updated two-spoke steering wheel.
Kia is expected to reveal full details on the 2026 Sportage’s design, specs, and pricing next month in Korea, with the North American release likely to follow shortly thereafter.
In an additional marketing move, Kia announced a partnership with Netflix, promoting the Sportage through the highly anticipated second season of Squid Game.
Stay tuned for more updates as Kia continues to tease its next-generation Sportage ahead of the official unveiling.
Source: KIA
This article was crafted with assistance from Chatgpt
