The upcoming Kia Sportage has been observed without significant camouflage, revealing a substantial design departure from its predecessor. The vehicle adopts a more angular and upright aesthetic, aligning with the design language seen in the Kia Telluride.
Key exterior features include a prominent, wide front grille flanked by vertical lighting units, a rounded front bumper, and a rectangular lower air intake housing a central sensor pod. The side profile exhibits slab-sided bodywork, pronounced side skirts, and a relatively flat beltline, contrasting with the current model's softer contours. A rakish windscreen, gently sloping roofline, and two-tone wheels further define its new stance.
The rear of the vehicle features a nearly vertical design with a large spoiler and an angular, seemingly compact window. Vertical taillights with a split design are evident, and the license plate recess has been relocated from the liftgate to the bumper. While interior images were not captured, previous reports indicate the integration of a new Pleos Connect infotainment system, available in 12.9-, 14.6-, and 17-inch display sizes.
Powertrain expectations are largely informed by the redesigned Hyundai Tucson, which shares a platform. The Tucson Hybrid features a turbocharged 1.6-liter engine, delivering a combined output of 242 hp and 380 Nm of torque. This powertrain is anticipated to be offered in the new Sportage, representing an incremental performance enhancement over the current model's 232 hp and 367 Nm.