Kia Unveils New Sportage Model with Bold Facelift and Enhanced Features
Kia has recently unveiled a new-look model of its popular Sportage, a vehicle that has consistently been one of the UK’s favourite SUVs. According to The Sun, the Sportage’s facelift boasts a bolder EV-style body with “star-point” LEDs and chunkier bumpers, giving it a more rugged and modern appearance.
The new Sportage model is set to be launched in three distinct lines: Pure, GT-Line, and GT-Line S. Each line will comprise a range of electrified powertrains, including petrol, hybrid, and plug-in hybrids, with options for automatic, manual, front, and all-wheel drive. As reported by The Sun, the interior of the new model features a slick 12.3-inch touchscreen and a clutter-free dashboard, with the GT-Line S adding a full digital cockpit and a 10-inch head-up display.
In terms of engine power, all versions of the Sportage will retain a 1.6-litre turbo engine, but with varying levels of hybridisation. The first hybrid model starts with 148bhp and a choice of manual or dual-clutch automatic transmission. Full hybrids have seen a significant increase in power, jumping 28bhp to 235bhp thanks to a beefier e-motor. Meanwhile, Kia’s plug-in hybrid electric (PHEV) powertrain has received the biggest upgrade, with a 42bhp increase in power, allowing it to punch out a whopping 283bhp.
The Sun reports that Kia has remained tight-lipped on the electric-only range’s maximum distance, but shoppers can expect it to remain at roughly 40 miles. The car manufacturer is sticking to offering the Sportage in its Euro-centric short-wheelbase form, with models made in domestic Korean, American, and Australasian markets featuring a longer wheelbase.
The exterior of the new Sportage also boasts new colour options, as well as a range of new 17-19-inch wheels. New swipe-down shortcuts and AI voice control make the tech accessible and top-of-the-line. Additionally, the glossy scratch-prone plastics used in the surround have been replaced with tougher brushed metal trim.
The Sportage has been a best-seller in the UK, with over 124,000 units sold since 2022. According to The Sun, it was crowned the UK’s best-selling car of 2024. With its new facelift and enhanced features, the Sportage is set to continue its success in the SUV market, competing with rivals such as VW’s Tiguan and Hyundai’s Tucson. The new model starts from just £29,000, making it an attractive option for those in the market for a reliable and feature-packed family SUV.
As noted by The Sun, the Sportage has been dubbed the “do-it-all family SUV”, and it’s easy to see why. With its range of electrified powertrains, practical interior, and modern exterior design, it’s a vehicle that is sure to appeal to a wide range of buyers. As the UK’s SUV market continues to grow, the new Kia Sportage is set to remain a top contender.
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