Kia has released a teaser video that shows shadowy images of the Sportage midlife facelift. From the video it is apparent the update will replace the boomerang-shaped DRLs with new designs. And slimline wrappings will encase vertical headlamps.
The Sportage update also takes on the chunky family cues now seen in larger models like EV9 and Sorento. The official reveal in next month is likely to take place at the upcoming Los Angeles Motor Show. It kicks off on Nov 22.
Unsurprisingly, being a medium SUV, Sportage is Kia’s most popular model in the UK, having sold over 37,000 examples year to date. Niro numbers are under half that, despite being in second place for Kia.
Read our 2024 Sportage Hybrid review
Now images from a Korean teaser video reveal a fresh headlight design akin to that of the EV9’s so-called ‘Starmap’ lighting signature. Its tiger nose grille seems more upright than before. The updated Sportage also gets new rear lights, and a bumper update is a possibility. The rest of the design is seemingly much the same.
While there is little in the way of hard data about the rest of the vehicle, reports indicate it will take on more of a tech-focused interior, like Kia EV. Expect then a three-screen infotainment system like that in the forthcoming EV3. Instruments and infotainment screens are both likely to be 12.3 inch items. A separate screen is likely for media and climate controls. Wireless smartphone integration is probable for both tribes. And it will probably still be available with mild and full hybrids and plug-in hybrid powertrains based around a 1.6L four-pot engine. However, the line-up may slim down somewhat. Here in New Zealand eleven different models are on offer.
In the UK price increases are expected, as is the norm these days. An on-sale date is likely in Q1 of next year, so perhaps before midyear in New Zealand.
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