By Otsile Kadiege

Kia recently unveiled the updated Sportage. The facelifted popular SUV features a redesigned exterior and interior, new technologies, and electrified powertrains.

Exterior design and styling updates

On the outside, the facelifted Kia Sportage adopts the automaker’s latest ‘Opposites United’ design philosophy. Highlights include a redesigned “Tiger Nose” grille, striking new LED Star Map headlights, revised front and rear bumpers, and new wheel designs (17-inch, 18-inch, and 19-inch), with exclusive 18-inch and 19-inch versions for the ‘GT-Line’ and ‘GT-Line S’ models.

Interior design and tech updates

The interior of the facelifted Sportage also receives notable enhancements. New standout features include a two-spoke multifunctional steering wheel, updated seat covers (with the ‘GT-Line’ and ‘GT-Line S’ variants offering a stylish black and white interior in artificial leather and suede), and a new 10-inch head-up display.

Driver assistance systems

As with all vehicles in the Kia lineup, the Sportage is equipped with a full suite of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). Standard Auto Emergency Braking with pedestrian, cyclist, and car detection uses sensors and a camera to scan the road ahead and automatically apply the brakes if a potential collision is detected.

Highway Driving Assist 2 uses a forward-facing camera, radar sensors, and navigation data to help maintain a set speed and distance from the vehicle ahead in certain conditions. The system can also assist with steering during lane changes (activated by the turn signal) and provide evasive steering support.

Hybrid powertrains

The enhanced Sportage offers a choice of petrol and hybrid (HEV) powertrains from launch.

• The non-hybrid version features a 1.6-litre turbocharged gasoline direct injection (T-GDI) engine producing 150 PS (110 kW), paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT). It is available only with front-wheel drive (FWD).
• The hybrid version uses the same 1.6-litre T-GDI engine but delivers 239 PS (176 kW). It is available in both FWD and all-wheel drive (AWD).

Availability

Kia South Africa has yet to confirm the local availability of the facelifted Sportage. However, the brand’s local division is set to launch the updated Sorento later this month.