Description
2026 Kia Sportage Debuts with Enhanced Design
2026 Kia Sportage Debuts at LA Auto Show Advancing Design, Innovation, and Technology
>> “Opposites United” design philosophy takes on a more confident and refined style with Kia’s LED star map lighting and distinctive amber DRLs
>> New driver-centric dual 12.3-in. panoramic displays with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto standard on all trims
>> Available new 10-in. Head-up Display (HUD)
>> Electrified lineup becomes even more desirable with the addition of sporty S and rugged X-Line turbo hybrid trims
>> Advanced Driver Assist System (ADAS) suite now includes available Forward Collision Avoidance Assist w/ Direct Oncoming Detection & Avoidance, next level HDA2 and Front/Side/Rear Parking Distance Warning
>> Available Digital Key offers the ability to lock/unlock/start using a smart device
>> New Terrain mode (Snow, Mud, Sand) on X-Line, X-Pro Prestige, and all AWD trims
>> A more powerful than before turbo hybrid powertrain
>> Segment-up roominess with impressive rear legroom and cargo room
>> New Digital Features and Services through Kia Connect
The 2026 Kia Sportage made its debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show, showcasing major updates in design, technology, and eco-friendly options. Available in ICE, Turbo Hybrid (HEV), and Turbo Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) variants, the new lineup includes rugged trims like X-Line and X-Pro Prestige, appealing to adventurous and eco-conscious buyers.
With Kia's "Opposites United" design philosophy, the Sportage features refreshed front and rear styling. Inside, it offers cutting-edge tech, including a 12.3-inch curved touchscreen, a new 10-inch head-up display, and Digital Key functionality for remote access via smart devices.
The lineup includes a new sporty S trim for the HEV and enhanced power for hybrid models. AWD trims come standard with Terrain Mode for better off-road capability. The ICE trims include LX, EX, SX, SX-Prestige, X-Line, and X-Pro Prestige, while the HEV adds LX, S, EX, and X-Line trims. The PHEV is available in X-Line and X-Line Prestige.
Assembled in Georgia alongside Kia’s Telluride, Sorento, and EV models, the 2026 Sportage will arrive in showrooms in Q2 next year, with pricing announced closer to launch.
EYE-CATCHING DESIGN
Befitting of Kia’s “Opposites United” design philosophy, smooth, soft surfaces are offset by rugged, sheer forms, combining off-road confidence with cutting edge modern cues. New design elements include:
> Front and rear bumpers
> Distinct styling for X-Line models
> Revised lighting:
- - Stacked LED headlight design with optional cube-style projection
- - Amber LED “Star Map” daytime running lights (DRLs)
- - LED “Star Map” taillights with transparent design (standard rear combination type)
> Newly available 17-inch, 18-inch, and 19-inch alloy wheel designs
A CABIN AIMED AT CONNECTIVITY, COMFORT AND CONVENIENCE
The 2026 Sportage transforms its cabin into a premium space with advanced tech and connectivity:
1. Connected Car Navigation Cockpit (ccNC): 12.3-inch display with OTA updates, wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay, and Kia Connect for features like remote start, cabin preconditioning, and route planning.
2. 10-inch Head-Up Display (HUD): Available on HEV and PHEV models, integrates Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and turn-by-turn navigation.
3. Smart Key & Digital Key 2.0: Push-button start with remote capabilities; Digital Key allows smartphone-based locking, unlocking, and sharing.
4. Kia Connect Services: Wi-Fi hotspot for up to five devices, smartwatch compatibility, stolen vehicle tracking, connected routing with AI, and smart speaker integration.
5. Customizable Features: Options like streaming music, NBA team displays, and infotainment personalization via the Kia Connect Store.
Driver-Assist Technology:
1. Multi-function touchpad for audio and climate control.
2. 360-degree Surround-View Monitor with remote view via Kia Connect.
3. Harman Kardon premium audio system.
4. Wireless charging pad in the upper tray.
Additional Interior Features:
1. Optional power-folding mirrors and heated rear seats (HEV/PHEV only).
2. Smudge-resistant trims on the instrument panel, center console, and door panels.
Spacious Interior:
1. Rear legroom: 41.3 inches for passenger comfort.
2. Cargo capacity: Up to 39.6 cu-ft, with a dual-level cargo floor (standard on ICE and HEV).
This combination of features ensures the 2026 Sportage offers a luxurious and practical driving experience.
NEW TRIMS AND OPTIONS PACKAGES
The 2026 Sportage introduces two new turbocharged Hybrid trims:
- S Hybrid: 12.3-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, USB-C charging, Smart Key, heated front seats, BCW/RCCA/SEA, 18-inch dark alloy wheels, gloss black grille/window trims.
- X-Line Hybrid: 12.3-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, USB-C charging, wireless charging, heated front seats, BCW/RCCA/SEA, LED fog lights, panoramic sunroof, smart power liftgate, 19-inch black alloy wheels, gloss black grille/bumper/badging.
Two new option packages:
- LX Convenience Package: Power driver’s seat, BCW/RCCA/SEA, heated mirrors.
- X-Line Technology Package: 12.3-inch ccNC, Surround View Monitor, Harman Kardon audio, memory seat/mirrors, power folding mirrors, LED fog lights.
DIVERSE ENGINE LINEUP
The Sportage offers powertrain options for urban, off-road, and highway driving:
1. Sportage ICE:
- 2.5L I-4 engine
- 8-speed automatic transmission
- FWD/AWD
- 187 hp (est.)
- 3,500 lb towing capacity
2. Sportage HEV:
- 1.6L turbo GDI and 47.7kW motor
- 6-speed automatic transmission
- FWD/AWD
- 231 hp (est., +4 hp from previous year)
- 2,000 lb towing capacity
3. Sportage PHEV:
- 1.6L turbo GDI and 72kW motor
- 6-speed automatic transmission
- AWD
- 268 hp (est., +7 hp from previous year)
- 2,000 lb towing capacity
All AWD models come with Active AWD and Terrain Mode (Snow, Mud, Sand) for better control in various conditions.
RUGGEDNESS RETAINED: X-LINE AND X-PRO
The 2026 Sportage offers X-Line and X-Pro Prestige trims for gasoline variants, both featuring Active AWD and unique SynTex leather seats with tread-like stitching.
1. Sportage X-Line:
- Unique front and rear bumpers, skid plate design
- LED star map lighting with amber DRLs and dark styling elements
- Active AWD with Terrain Mode (Snow, Mud, Sand)
- Gloss black side mirrors, roof rack, and window surrounds
- 19-inch wheels with all-season tires
2. Sportage X-Pro Prestige:
- Off-road features including B.F. Goodrich all-terrain tires and 17-inch matte black wheels
- Active AWD with Terrain Mode (Snow, Mud, Sand)
- LED fog lights and projector headlights
- Heated windshield and wiper nozzles
- Two-tone roof design
ADVANCED DRIVER ASSISTANCE SYSTEMS
The Kia Sportage comes with a range of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). New features include:
- Standard Auto Emergency Braking with Pedestrian, Cyclist, and Car Detection: This system uses sensors and a camera to detect potential hazards and automatically applies the brakes to avoid a collision.
- Optional Forward Collision Avoidance Assist with Direct Oncoming Detection & Highway Driving Assist 2: Uses cameras, radar, and navigation data to help maintain speed and distance, assist with lane changes (via turn signals), and provide steering support for evasive maneuvers.
- Standard Hands on Detection (HOD): This system checks if the driver is holding the steering wheel and issues warnings when needed.
- Optional Parking Distance Warning (Front/Side/Reverse): Warns the driver of pedestrians or obstacles when parking at low speeds. Front and Reverse warnings are standard.
SOURCE: KIA GLOBAL MEDIA CENTER
