Spy photographers have captured the facelifted Euro-spec Kia Sportage, just ahead of its rumored debut on October 24. The latest shots not only offer a revealing look inside the cabin but also showcase a hybrid variant getting some a workout on the Nürburgring. It’s worth noting that this is the short-wheelbase version designed for the European market. However, it’s highly likely that the same core cosmetic and tech upgrades are expected to make their way to the longer-wheelbase model sold in North America. We could see that version debut either towards the end this year or early 2025, keeping Kia’s momentum rolling in both markets.
Let’s dive into the interior upgrades first.
Front and center is a new curved display that stretches across the dash,
instantly giving the Sportage a more modern, tech-heavy vibe that’s in step
with the times. It’s joined by a revised dashboard that is largely covered by
disguise. Additional changes are limited, but we can see a new two-spoke
steering wheel, a minimalist shifter, and what appears to be updated
switchgear.
Bigger changes occur outside as the
Sportage adopts and all-new front fascia with a rectangular grille that is
flanked by vertical headlights, which loosely recall those found on newer
models such as the Carnival, Sorento, and EV9. Further below, there’s a wide
lower intake with cube-like fog lights. Out back, the updates are more subdued,
but still noticeable. A slightly revised bumper with new reflectors catches the
eye, while the taillights receive a modest graphic refresh that ties everything
together.
It sounds like we could learn more later
this month, but the current model offers a host of powertrains including a
turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder with mild hybrid technology. It produces
148 hp and can be connected to either a six-speed manual or a
seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. Customers can also opt for a hybrid that
has a turbocharged 1.6-liter engine, an electric motor, and a 1.49 kWh battery.
This gives the model a combined output of 226 hp.
If you desire something more eco-friendly,
there’s a plug-in hybrid variant with an upgraded motor and a larger 13.8 kWh
battery pack. Thanks to the changes, the model has 261 hp and
an electric-only range of up to 69 km.
