Kia America has unveiled pricing and new feature details for the refreshed 2026 Sportage lineup, which brings a confident exterior design, advanced interior technology, and enhanced convenience features. As Kia’s most popular vehicle, the Sportage continues to evolve with consumer expectations while delivering a compelling balance of value, style, and functionality. Set to arrive in dealerships in the first half of 2025, the new Sportage offers a range of trims, including rugged and premium options.
Exterior design updates: The 2026 Sportage receives a bold front-end refresh, featuring Kia’s distinctive “Opposites United” design language. The signature star map lighting with amber daytime running lights highlights a modern, upright grille for a confident and assertive presence. Updated front and rear bumpers further refine the crossover’s athletic stance, while new available colors offer expanded personalization for buyers.
Interior and connectivity enhancements: Inside, the Sportage features a tech-forward cabin anchored by a standard 12.3-inch touchscreen equipped with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Enhanced wireless connectivity includes available over-the-air updates, while thoughtful upgrades like a Smart Key and dual rear USB-C charging ports come standard. New cabin color options and refined materials elevate the overall atmosphere, blending practicality with upscale touches.
Driver assistance and safety features: Kia continues its commitment to safety with a suite of standard Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). These include Forward Collision Avoidance, Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go, Forward and Reverse Park Distance Warning, and Hands-On Detection. These systems help ensure both peace of mind and driver confidence across the Sportage range.
Powertrain and performance details:
Engine options and drivetrain: The 2026 Kia Sportage continues with its internal combustion engine (ICE) powertrains, featuring a lineup of front-wheel and all-wheel drive options across multiple trims. While exact engine specifications remain consistent with previous models, the availability of a standard Active All-Wheel Drive system on the X-Pro Prestige trim enhances traction and control in varying conditions. Additionally, the AWD variants come equipped with Kia’s new Terrain Mode system, offering tailored performance settings for Snow, Mud, and Sand, giving drivers added capability for off-road adventures.
Trim highlights and pricing: Kia offers a wide range of configurations for the 2026 Sportage. The base LX FWD model starts at $28,690, while the AWD version is priced at $30,490. Mid-tier EX trims begin at $30,490 (FWD) and $32,290 (AWD), followed by the SX at $34,290 and SX Prestige trims starting at $36,290 (FWD) and $38,090 (AWD). The rugged X-Line AWD is available from $32,990, and the fully-equipped X-Pro Prestige AWD tops the range at $39,590, offering standard all-terrain tires, premium features, and a bold design focus.
Technology and convenience features: Standard tech across all trims includes a large digital interface, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and OTA updates. Higher trims benefit from even more driver-centric upgrades and a new two-tone steering wheel design. With both functional and aesthetic improvements, the 2026 Sportage aims to deliver a sophisticated and connected driving experience.
Availability: The 2026 Kia Sportage is expected to arrive in showrooms nationwide during the first half of 2025. Customers can explore a variety of trims tailored to different lifestyles—from urban commuters to weekend adventurers—each combining modern tech, rugged capability, and everyday convenience.
Summary:
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2026 Sportage starts at $28,690
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Bold facelift with Kia’s “Opposites United” design
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Standard 12.3-inch touchscreen with wireless connectivity
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Available AWD with Terrain Mode on select trims
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X-Pro Prestige offers all-terrain tires and advanced features
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Full range of ADAS technologies standard
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Expected on sale in H1 2025
Disclaimer: Vehicle specs and features are based on Kia’s initial U.S. market announcement and may vary by region or trim availability.
Source: KIA
AI Assistance: Chatgpt