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Kia downsizes the 5th-gen Sportage for Europe

The European version of the Kia Sportage will be exhibited at the IAA Mobility show coming up in September, and it looks like it will be largely different from its Korean and North American cousins.

Like the technically similar Hyundai Tucson, the Sportage will arrive in Europe as a compact crossover SUV, while the other markets will be getting a mid-size version. At 4,485 mm (175 inches) long with 2,680 mm (104.6 inches) between the axles, it is 175 mm (6.83 in) shorter with 75 mm (3 in) less wheelbase.

The sketches shown in this news article are official and provided by Kia, while the leaked photos show what looks like the production car. Note that the drawings depict an upmarket GT-Line variant of the Sportage with some extra trim. Compared to the previous generation, the new one appears to ditch rear side windows in favor of wider c-pillars. The shoulder line is not continuous, and the tailgate lacks any badges. There is also no crease above the license plate area like before.

The bumpers, lighting, radiator grille and wheels appear unchanged. You can count on a black roof and LED Matrix headlights being offered as options.

Sales in Europe should start later this year.