The fifth-generation Kia Sportage has been revealed, sporting the company’s bold new ‘Opposites United’ design philosophy.
Due in Australia before the end of 2021, the all-new Sportage follows the related Hyundai Tucson in wearing a distinctive design, and offering the latest Hyundai and Kia have to offer in terms of technology.
Kia is yet to detail the new Sportage’s drivetrains, though we’re expecting updated versions of the current line-up to be offered in Australia – meaning 2.0-litre naturally-aspirated petrol and 2.0-litre turbo-diesel options.
It’s unclear whether Kia will offer a 1.6-litre turbo petrol with all-wheel drive locally like the Hyundai Tucson.
Overseas markets should offer 1.6-litre hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions too, though whether these models will make it Down Under is unclear also. Hyundai has been unable to get the Tucson hybrids to Australia due to Korean production being limited to left-hand drive versions, though the larger Sorento will launch with these drivetrains later this year.
Kia has confirmed Europe will get its own version of the Sportage compared to global markets – a short-wheelbase version – whereas markets like South Korea, North America, and Australia should get a longer model like the Tucson.
A collaborative effort between design teams in Korea, Germany, the USA and China, the new Sportage has an intricate grille incorporating boomerang-style LED daytime running lights blending into the headlight clusters.
For the first time Kia will offer the Sportage with a contrast black roof (depending on market) “to accentuate the sporting profile and highlight the architecturally dynamic C-pillar that encompasses a deconstructed look”.
There’s a sloping roofline flowing into the tailgate and tail light clusters – arguably the strongest design link between the new Sportage and the previous car – which are joined through the centre for a wider impression out back.
However, the company doesn’t mention a full-width LED light bar.
Huge changes have been made in the interior, though it’s arguably more conventional than the exterior.
Drawing inspiration from Kia’s latest models including the EV6 and K8, the new Sportage’s cabin looks to be a huge step up in terms of design and infotainment technology.
There’s a curved set of displays up front incorporating two high-resolution displays (likely measuring 10.25 inches) angled towards the driver, three-dimensional air vent designs as well as a new touchpad for the HVAC controls.
A shift-by-wire rotary gear selector features on this hero car, though it’s unclear whether all models will get this or just higher grades like the larger Sorento does in Australia. Kia also says the Sportage’s cabin offers “the highest quality materials that are sumptuous to touch” as well as “vibrant colour options”.
The new Sportage will offer front headrests with hanger-type design elements “allowing clothing and handbags to be easily and conveniently hooked into place”.
For the first time, the Sportage will be offered with a more rugged looking X-Line specification (above), which brings unique exterior and interior appointments.
Highlights of the new Sportage X-Line include a unique bumper, side sill and curved roof rack design, while the interior can be specified with sage green or black seats with quilting, and ‘black metal wood’ accents.
The 2022 Kia Sportage will go on sale in global markets during the latter half of this year, with an Australian launch due before year’s end.
Stay tuned to CarExpert for all the latest over the coming months.
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