First Sketches Revealed, Here’s The All-New European-Market Kia Sportage!

Kia Europe has revealed the first official sketches of the first-ever dedicated Sportage for the European market. Now officially launched, the vehicle's newest model would be the fifth generation for this brand’s most sought SUV. 

Developed on a new architecture, the Sportage was made to focus on practicality and usability. Catering specifically for European roads and preferences, the model features a sleek exterior and interior design. The brand’s newest design language, Opposites United, influences the vehicle’s appearance, which centers on the theme ‘Bold for Nature’ while also paying homage to nature’s perfection and simplicity.  

The sketches revealed a sophisticated front-end design, with black grille graphic spanning across, a signature Tiger Nose Grille, boomerang-shaped LED DRLs (Daytime Running Lamps) as well as Matrix LED headlamps. A black roof is also spotted, highlighting the dynamic C-pillar design of the vehicle. 

From the back, the Sportage spots powerful and broad shoulder lines merging with the slim rear LED combination lamps. An unique black rear bumper design is seen, emphasizing the vehicle’s sporty character. 

Interior-wise, the cabin provides a ton of space for passengers, crafted with luxury features, materials and a modern style, all combined with defined technology. Highlights include a 12.3-icnh touchscreen and advanced integrated controller, Kia Connect App access, and a Harman Kardon sound system.

Powering the European model are four different powertrains, aiming to dramatically reduce emissions and enhance fuel economy. Included are hybrid electric technologies, along with the latest-generation clean gasoline and diesel IC engines. 

The PHEV Sportage rides on a 1.6-litre T-GDI engine, which features a 13.8kWH lithium-ion polymer battery pack. The powertrain produces 261 hp, with 177hp derived from the IC engine. The battery pack constantly monitors the state of the battery, including current, voltage and fault diagnosis, cell voltage as well as temperature.

Meanwhile, the HEV Sportage features a 1.49kWh lithium-ion polymer battery, which also rides on the same 1.6 T-GDI engine. Total system power of the vehicle is 226hp. 

The same engine is also available on the mild hybrid (MHEV) system, which generates 147hp or 177hp power output. Introducing a new combustion process, cooling technologies and key friction reduction measures, the four-cylinder unit ensures enhanced fuel efficiency.

A 1.6-litre clean diesel engine was also introduced, with 113 hp or 134hp power outputs. The engine allows a decrease in NOx and particulate matter pollutants, thanks to the advanced SCR active emissions control technologies. Additionally, the 134hp model is available with the MHEV system. 

Major highlights include the all-new Terrain Mode, Electronic Controlled Suspension (ECS), Kia’s Idle Stop-and-Go technology as well as the latest DriveWise - featuring Highway Driving Assist (HDA), Navigation-based Smart Cruise Control (NSCC), Intelligent Speed Limit Assist (ISLA), and Remote Smart Parking Assist (RSPA), just to name a few.

The all-new European Sportage has made its real-world debut at the first IAA Mobility show, which took place at Odeonsplatz.