Kia Sportage

The Kia Sportage (Korean: 기아 스포티지) is a series of automobiles manufactured by the South Korean manufacturer Kia since 1993 through five generations. Initially a compact SUV built on a body-on-frame chassis, the second-generation Sportage transitioned to a car-based platform which placed it into the compact crossover SUV class, and was originally developed alongside the Hyundai Tucson and since the fifth-generation model launched in 2021, in two sizes with different wheelbase lengths for different markets, alongside the Hyundai Santa Fe and the Kia Sorento.

Kia Sportage
Overview
Manufacturer	Kia
Production	1993–present
Model years	1995–present
Body and chassis
Class	Compact SUV (1993–2004) Compact crossover SUV (C) (2004–present)
Body style	5-door SUV 3-door convertible (1990–2001)
Layout	Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive (1993–2004) Front-engine, front-wheel-drive (2004–present) Front-engine, all-wheel-drive (1993–present)
Chassis	Body-on-frame (1993–2004) Unibody (2004–present)
Chronology
Predecessor	Kia Retona

The Sportage has been the best-selling Kia model globally since 2016 after surpassing the Rio. In 2018, the model reached the 5 million production milestone.^[1] As of 2023^[update], the Sportage is positioned between the Seltos or Niro and the three-row Sorento in Kia's SUV global lineup with the latter sharing platform with the Sportage.

Logo of the Kia Sportage.

First generation (NB; 1993)

First generation
Pre-facelift
Overview
Model code	NB
Also called	Wanli Sportage (China)
Production	July 1993 – 2005
Model years	1995–2004 1995–2002 (North America)
Assembly	South Korea: Hwaseong (Hwaseong Plant) Germany: Osnabrück (Karmann) Russia: Kaliningrad (Avtotor) Pakistan: Karachi China: Zhanjiang, Guangdong
Body and chassis
Body style	5-door SUV 3-door convertible
Layout	Front-engine, rear-wheel drive Front-engine, four-wheel drive
Related	Mazda Bongo
Powertrain
Engine	Petrol: 2.0 L FE I4 2.0 L FE DOHC I4 Diesel: 2.0 L RF I4
Transmission	4-speed automatic 5-speed manual
Dimensions
Wheelbase	2,360 mm (92.9 in) 2,650 mm (104.3 in)
Length	4,030 mm (158.7 in) (3-door) 4,245 mm (167.1 in) (5-door) 4,440 mm (174.8 in) (Grand Wagon)
Width	1,855 mm (73.0 in)
Height	1,635 mm (64.4 in)

The first-generation Kia Sportage was developed with a Mazda Bongo engineering base platform. It shares many mechanical components such as the engine, transmissions (early versions), and differentials with the Mazda line of vehicles. This was during Kia's alliance with Ford and Mazda, which involved Ford/Mazda providing technology and Kia providing inexpensive manufacturing facilities for Ford Company.

From 1995 to 1998, the Sportage was built by Karmann in Germany; European buyers received German-built versions in that period, while the rest of the world received South Korean-built versions. It was launched in Asia in July 1993 and European sales started two years later.

The Sportage was sold in either a five-door SUV or a three-door soft-top convertible. Kia initially developed the wagon in standard length form, but in circa 1996, the company released an extended length version. This stretched model—mainly sold in Asian markets under the name "Sportage Grand", but also as the "Grand Wagon"—featured a 305 mm (12.0 in) longer body utilizing the same wheelbase, an increase in luggage capacity from 1,570 to 2,220 liters (55.4 to 78.4 cu ft), and the relocation of the spare wheel from the tailgate to underneath the floor.^[2]

Kia offered three Mazda-sourced engines in the Sportage, beginning with the 2.0-liter FE DOHC inline-four gasoline unit producing 95 kW (128 hp) and the 2.0-liter RF inline-four diesel rated at 61 kW (82 hp). Diesel-engined models were mostly restricted to European markets, as was the more basic single overhead camshaft (SOHC) version of the 2.0-liter FE gasoline inline-four. Delivering 87 kW (117 hp), this gasoline engine was available from 2000 onwards. In North America, the 2.0-liter FE DOHC engine produced 130 hp (97 kW) and had optional four-wheel drive. The 1997 model year Kia Sportage was the world's first production vehicle to be equipped with a knee airbag.^[3]

This first-generation model (1993–2002) sold in low numbers, even domestically in South Korea, and models after Hyundai's 1998 partial takeover of Kia (1997–2002) were recalled twice for rear wheels dismounting while driving. The first-generation Sportage was discontinued in South Korea in 2002, and in North America after the 2002 model year. By 2003, most international markets had discontinued the Sportage range, although it remained on sale in some developing countries until its second-generation replacement arrived in 2005.

The Kia Sportage scored the lowest possible result in the Australian ANCAP crash tests – one star out of five. As well as a failure of the seat belts, the vehicle structure collapsed.^[4]

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  Rear view (standard 5-door)
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  Rear view (Grand Wagon)
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  Interior

Facelift

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  1998–2001 Kia Sportage
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  1998–2002 Kia Grand Sportage
• 
  2002–2005 Kia Sportage

Engines

Model name	Power	Capacity	Fuel	Year of construction
2.0 TD 4WD (RF)	83 HP	1,998 cc	Diesel	1997–2003
2.0 (FE 8V)	95 HP	1,998 cc	Petrol	1994–1995
2.0 4WD	118 HP	1,998 cc	Petrol	2000–2003
2.0 ( FED )	128–140 HP	1,998 cc	Petrol	1994–2006
2.2 D 4WD	63 HP	2,184 cc	Diesel	1994–1998
2.2 D 4WD	71 HP	2,184 cc	Diesel	1994–1999

Second generation (JE/KM; 2004)

Second generation
Pre-facelift
Overview
Model code	JE/KM
Production	August 2004 – February 2010 2005–2015 (China)
Model years	2005–2010 2006–2015 (China)
Assembly	South Korea: Gwangju (Gwangju Plant) Slovakia: Žilina (Kia Motors Slovakia) China: Yancheng (DYK) Malaysia: Gurun (NAM) Russia: Kaliningrad (Avtotor)[5] Ukraine: Zaporizhzhia (AvtoZAZ)[6] Ecuador: Quito (AYMESA)
Body and chassis
Layout	Front-engine, front-wheel-drive Front-engine, all-wheel drive
Related	Hyundai Tucson (JM)
Powertrain
Engine	Petrol: 2.0 L Beta II I4 2.7 L Delta V6 Diesel: 2.0 L D CRDI I4
Transmission	5/6-speed manual 4-speed automatic
Dimensions
Wheelbase	2,630 mm (103.5 in)
Length	4,350 mm (171.3 in)
Width	1,820–1,840 mm (71.7–72.4 in)
Height	1,695–1,730 mm (66.7–68.1 in)
Curb weight	1,480–1,685 kg (3,263–3,715 lb)

After a two-year hiatus, the Sportage returned in model-year 2005, sharing a Hyundai Elantra-based platform with the first-generation Hyundai Tucson. A 2.0 L straight-4 diesel engine was available in the United Kingdom. Fans of the original pre-Hyundai Sportage and critics complained that it was considerably larger than the original Sportage and had none of its off-road capability, the two keys to its success. However, buyers of the second-generation model were likely to favor the available 173 hp (129 kW) V6, with 178 lb·ft of torque (241 N·m). Overall fit/finish and quality was noticeably improved over the first-generation model.^{[citation needed]}

A facelift model of the second generation was introduced in May 2008. From 2006, it was manufactured at the Žilina Plant in Slovakia. A second facelift was introduced in the UK in early 2009, only a few months after its first facelift.

The Sportage was named as one of the most reliable vehicles from the 2009 Consumer Reports reliability survey.^[7] and ranked second in the "20 least expensive 2009 vehicles to insure" list by Insure.com.^[8]

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  Rear view
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  Interior

First facelift

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  First facelift (front; UK)
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  First facelift (rear; UK)

Second facelift

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  Second facelift (front; Australia)
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  Second facelift (rear; Europe)

Safety

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety displays a 2008 Sportage as an example of a weak roof.

The second-generation Sportage earned a top rating of five stars in crash tests by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. However, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) rated it only “acceptable” for frontal and side impact crash protection and “poor” for roof strength.^[9]

IIHS scores

Test	Rating
Overall:
Moderate overlap front	Acceptable
Side	Acceptable
Roof strength	Poor
Head restraints and seats	Poor

Engines

Model name	Power	Capacity	Fuel	Year of construction
2.0 ( G4GC )	141 HP	1,975 cc	Petrol	2004–2010
2.7 ( G6BA )	175 HP	2,656 cc	Petrol	2004–2010
2.0 ( D4EA )	113 HP	1,991 cc	Diesel	2005–2010
2.0 CRDi	150 HP	1,991 cc	Diesel	2008–2010
2.0 CRDi 4WD	140 HP	1,991 cc	Diesel	2006–2010

Third generation (SL; 2010)

Third generation
Pre-facelift
Overview
Model code	SL
Production	March 2010 – August 2015 2010–2018 (China)
Model years	2011–2016
Assembly	South Korea: Gwangju (Gwangju Plant) Slovakia: Žilina (Kia Motors Slovakia) China: Yancheng (DYK) Malaysia: Gurun (NAM) Russia: Kaliningrad (Avtotor)
Designer	Peter Schreyer
Body and chassis
Layout	Front-engine, front-wheel-drive Front-engine, all-wheel drive
Related	Hyundai Tucson (LM)
Powertrain
Engine	Petrol: 1.6 L Gamma GDi I4 2.0 L Theta II I4 2.0 L Theta II turbo GDi I4 2.4 L Theta II I4 2.4 L Theta II GDi I4 Diesel: 1.7 L U CRDi I4 2.0 L R CRDi I4
Transmission	5/6-speed manual 6-speed automatic
Dimensions
Wheelbase	2,640 mm (103.9 in)[10]
Length	4,440–4,450 mm (174.8–175.2 in)[10][11]
Width	1,855 mm (73.0 in)[10]
Height	1,635–1,645 mm (64.4–64.8 in)[10]
Curb weight	1,410–1,625 kg (3,109–3,583 lb)

The SL series Sportage was released to Asian and European markets in April 2010, the North and Central American markets in August 2010, and the Australian market in October 2010, for the 2011 model year.^[12] Two engines were available, a 2.0-liter Hyundai R diesel engine with 184 hp (137 kW), and a 2.0-liter Theta T-GDi gasoline engine. In China, it was released by Dongfeng Yueda Kia in October 2010 and called the Sportage R, and was to be built and marketed alongside the previous generation rather than as a replacement for it.^[13]

The Sportage won the 2011 Car of the Year (originally "Auto roku 2011 na Slovensku") in Slovakia and "Truck of the Year" nomination of International Car of the Year. It was top of the JD Power Survey for 2012, the only car in the survey to score five stars across all categories, from mechanical reliability to ownership costs and the dealer experience. In South Africa, it took the 2013 Standard Bank People's Wheels Award for "SUVs and Crossovers – City & Suburban".^[14][15]

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  Rear view
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  Interior

Facelift

The third generation received a facelift for the 2014 model year that included a new grille with a redesigned Kia logo, LED tail lights and redesigned alloy wheels.^[16]

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  Facelift
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  Facelift

Safety

Euro NCAP

The Sportage in its standard European market configuration received 5 stars from Euro NCAP in 2010.^[17][18]

IIHS

The third-generation Sportage received a "Top Safety Pick" rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety in the United States.^[19] Earning the award became tougher in 2010 when IIHS added the rollover crash test, which measures roof strength and is twice as stringent as the federal requirement. To pass this test, a vehicle's roof must be able to withstand the force of three times the vehicle's weight (acceptable rating). The federal standard requires a roof to hold 1.5 times the vehicle's weight.^[20]

IIHS scores

Test	Rating
Overall
Small overlap front (Driver)	Poor
Moderate overlap front	Good
Side	Good
Roof strength	Good
Head restraints and seats	Good

Engines

Model name	Power	Capacity	Fuel	Year of construction
1.6 ( G4FD )	135 HP	1,591 cc	Petrol	2011–present
2.0 ( G4KD )	163 HP	1,998 cc	Petrol	2010–present
2.0 ( G4NC )	166 HP	1,998 cc	Petrol	2014–present
2.4 ( G4KE )	177 HP	2,359 cc	Petrol	2010–present
2.0 ( D4HA )	136–184 HP	1,995 cc	Diesel	2010–present

Fourth generation (QL; 2015)

Fourth generation
Pre-facelift (UK)
Overview
Model code	QL
Also called	Kia KX5 (China)
Production	September 2015 – 2021 2019–2025 (Pakistan)
Model years	2017–2022
Assembly	South Korea: Gwangju (Gwangju Plant) Slovakia: Žilina (Kia Motors Slovakia) China: Yancheng (DYK) Malaysia: Gurun (NAM) Russia: Kaliningrad (Avtotor) Pakistan: Karachi (Kia Lucky Motors) Algeria: Batna (GLOVIZ)[21]
Designer	Park Jae Kwon Min Jae Kwon (facelift)[22] Under the lead of Peter Schreyer
Body and chassis
Layout	Front-engine, front-wheel-drive Front-engine, all-wheel drive
Related	Hyundai Tucson (TL)
Powertrain
Engine	Petrol: 1.6 L Gamma GDi I4 1.6 L Gamma T-GDi I4 2.0 L Nu MPi I4 2.0 L Nu GDi I4 2.0 L Theta II T-GDi I4 2.4 L Theta II MPi I4 2.4 L Theta II GDi I4 Diesel: 1.6 L Smartstream D1.6 CRDi I4 1.7 L U II CRDi I4 2.0 L R II CRDi I4
Transmission	6-speed manual 6-speed automatic 7-speed DCT 8-speed automatic
Dimensions
Wheelbase	2,670 mm (105.1 in)
Length	4,480 mm (176.4 in) 4,550 mm (179.1 in) (China)
Width	1,855 mm (73.0 in)
Height	1,635–1,645 mm (64.4–64.8 in) 1,655 mm (65.2 in) (China)
Curb weight	1,465–1,770 kg (3,230–3,902 lb)

Kia unveiled its newly redesigned Sportage at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September 2015, and brought it to market in 2016 (as a 2017 model in North America). The company said the contrasting sharp edges and smooth surfaces were inspired by modern fighter jets.^[23]

There are three gasoline engines, as well as one diesel engine in the line-up. The gasoline options are a 1.6-liter, 2.0-liter or 2.4-liter, offering 97 kW (132 PS) and 161 N⋅m (119 lb⋅ft), 120 kW (163 PS) and 200 N⋅m (148 lb⋅ft), and 138 kW (188 PS) and 241 N⋅m (178 lb⋅ft) respectively, while the diesel is a 2.0-liter, R-series turbo producing 135 kW (184 PS) and 400 N⋅m (295 lb⋅ft). A 130 kW (177 PS) and 265 N⋅m (195 lb⋅ft) 1.6 T-GDi turbo-gasoline with an optional seven-speed dual-clutch automatic is also available. Front- (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations are available.

In North America, the fourth generation Sportage was offered with three trim levels (LX, EX, and SX). Much like the previous model, it is available with two inline-four engine choices, a naturally aspirated 2.4-liter and a turbocharged 2.0-liter. The 2.4-liter produces 181 hp (135 kW) and 175 lb⋅ft (237 N⋅m), while the turbocharged engine makes 240 hp (179 kW) and 260 lb⋅ft (353 N⋅m), with small variations in performance dependent on whether FWD or AWD is configured. Both engines are mated to a six-speed automatic transmission.

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  Rear view (UK)
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  Interior

Facelift

In North America, the facelift model was introduced mid-2019 as an early 2020 model year. The changes included redesigned headlights and bumpers, with the front end taking cues from the recently introduced Stinger. Equipment levels were raised somewhat across the board, while a new, somewhat sporty model called "S" was introduced, priced between the LX and EX models.^[24]

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  Facelift (UK)
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  Facelift (UK)
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  GT-Line (UK)

Safety

The Latin American Sportage has ventilated front disc brakes and solid ones in the rear.^[25]

Euro NCAP

The Sportage in its standard European market configuration received 5 stars from Euro NCAP in 2015.^[26]

Latin NCAP

The Korean-made Sportage in its most basic Latin American market configuration with 2 airbags and no ESC received 0 stars from Latin NCAP in 2021 (similar to Euro NCAP 2014).^[27]

IIHS

2017

The 2017 Sportage received a "Top Safety Pick" rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.^[28]

IIHS scores

Test	Rating
Overall:
Small overlap front (Driver)	Good
Small overlap front (Passenger)	Good
Moderate overlap front	Good
Side (original test)	Good
Side (updated test)	Marginal
Roof strength	Good
Head restraints and seats	Good
Headlights	Poor
Front crash prevention (Vehicle-to-Vehicle)	Superior	optional
Child seat anchors (LATCH) ease of use	Acceptable

2022

The 2022 Sportage was tested by the IIHS and its top trim received a Top Safety Pick award:^[29]

IIHS scores

Small overlap front (Driver)	Good
Small overlap front (Passenger)	Good
Moderate overlap front	Good
Side (original test)	Good
Side (updated test)	Marginal
Roof strength	Good
Head restraints and seats	Good
Headlights	Acceptable Poor	varies by trim/option
Front crash prevention (Vehicle-to-Vehicle)	Superior	optional
Front crash prevention (Vehicle-to-Vehicle)	Superior	standard
Front crash prevention (Vehicle-to-Pedestrian, day)	Advanced	optional
Seat belt reminders	Acceptable
Child seat anchors (LATCH) ease of use	Acceptable

Awards

The Sportage won the 2016 Red Dot Award for Car Design.^[30]

Kia KX5 (Chinese version)

In China, the fourth generation Sportage was sold as the Kia KX5, the third generation model was sold alongside as the Sportage R, while the Kia Sportage name was used on a separate model developed from the second generation Hyundai ix35 chassis and also sold alongside.

The Kia KX5 received a facelift in 2019 conducted by Dongfeng Yueda Kia that would exclusively be sold in China only.

Available from March 2019, the front fascia was completely restyled with headlamps integrated with the grille and the rear end of the KX5 was also slightly redesigned for the Chinese market. Despite the exclusively restyled exterior, the wheels of the Chinese version are the same as the ones on the international Kia Sportage facelift.^[31]

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  Facelift Kia KX5
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  Facelift Kia KX5

Fifth generation (NQ5; 2021)

Fifth generation
Kia Sportage (South Korea; LWB)
Overview
Model code	NQ5
Production	2021–present
Model years	2023–present (North America)
Assembly	South Korea: Gwangju (Gwangju Plant) Slovakia: Žilina (Kia Slovakia) United States: West Point, Georgia (KMMG) China: Yancheng (Yueda Kia) Pakistan: Karachi (Kia Lucky Motors) Malaysia: Kulim, Kedah (Inokom) Russia: Kaliningrad (Avtotor) Vietnam: Chu Lai (THACO Kia)[32] Bangladesh: Sreepur Upazila, Gazipur (Meghna Group)[33]
Designer	Gregory Guillaume Jochen Paesen
Body and chassis
Layout	Front-engine, front-wheel-drive Front-engine, all-wheel drive
Platform	Hyundai-Kia N3[34]
Related	Hyundai Tucson (NX4) Hyundai Santa Cruz Hyundai Mufasa Hyundai Santa Fe (TM) Hyundai Santa Fe (MX5) Kia Sorento (MQ4)
Powertrain
Engine	Petrol: 1.6 L Smartstream G1.6 T-GDi I4 2.0 L Smartstream G2.0 MPi I4 2.0 L Smartstream G2.0 T-GDi I4 2.5 L Smartstream G2.5 GDi I4 Petrol hybrid: 1.6 L Smartstream G1.6 T-GDi 48V I4 1.6 L Smartstream G1.6 T-GDi HEV I4 Petrol plug-in hybrid: 1.6 L Smartstream G1.6 T-GDi PHEV I4 LPG: 2.0 L Smartstream L2.0 LPi I4 Diesel: 1.6 L Smartstream D1.6 CRDi I4 2.0 L Smartstream D2.0 CRDi I4 Diesel hybrid: 1.6 L Smartstream D1.6 CRDi 48V I4
Electric motor	Mild-Hybrid Starter-Generator (MHSG) (EcoDynamics+) 44.7 kW (60.8 PS; 59.9 hp) permanent magnet electric motor (FHEV) 66.9 kW (91.0 PS; 89.7 hp) permanent magnet traction electric motor (PHEV)
Transmission	6-speed manual 6-speed automatic 7-speed DCT 8-speed automatic
Hybrid drivetrain	EcoDynamics+ MHEV Full Hybrid Electric Vehicle (FHEV) PHEV (Sportage PHEV)
Battery	0.44 kWh 48-volt lithium-ion battery (MHEV) 1.49 kWh 270-volt Lithium-polymer (LiPo) (FHEV) 13.8 kWh 360-volt Lithium-polymer (LiPo) (PHEV)
Dimensions
Wheelbase	2,680 mm (105.5 in) (SWB) 2,755 mm (108.5 in) (LWB)
Length	4,515 mm (177.8 in) (SWB) 4,660 mm (183.5 in) (LWB)
Width	1,865 mm (73.4 in)
Height	1,650–1,660 mm (65.0–65.4 in)
Curb weight	1,525–1,615 kg (3,362–3,560 lb) (1.6T) 1,615–1,715 kg (3,560–3,781 lb) (2.0D)

The fifth-generation Sportage was unveiled on 8 June 2021,^[35][36] with specifications revealed in July 2021.^[37] Based on the brand’s latest N3 platform, Kia developed two versions of the Sportage with different body length and wheelbase depending on the market.^[38]

The model is equipped with a Terrain Mode that automatically adjusts various settings depending on conditions, including snow, mud, and sand. It also features electric control suspension (ECS) on some models that provides continuous damping control in real-time. Hybrid and plug-in hybrid models will also feature an E-Handling system. lt is also equipped with a more compact shift-by-wire transmission dial for the automatic model.

The vehicle has also been equipped with updated safety systems such as autonomous emergency braking (AEB), navigation-augmented adaptive cruise control, lane centring assist and advanced blind-spot collision-avoidance assistance system.^[39]

For the long-wheelbase model, Kia claims the fifth-generation Sportage received an increased 80 mm (3.1 in) of legroom and 7 mm (0.3 in) of headroom, with overall dimensions at 1,050 mm (41.3 in) and 1,000 mm (39.4 in) respectively.^[40]

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  Rear view (LWB)
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  Rear view (SWB)
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  Interior

2024 facelift

Kia released the facelift model of the fifth-generation Sportage on 5 November 2024 for the 2026 model year.^[41] Changes includes an updated front fascia with new headlights and updated front bumper design, new LED graphics for the taillights, new exterior colours and new alloy wheel designs. Inside, there is a new 2-spoke design steering wheel, a new curved digital cockpit houses the digital instrument cluster and 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, new air-con vents and new interior features. Other changes are an improved dampening system on the front axle, additional sound-absorbing materials, and the 7-speed dual-clutch automatic used for 1.6 T-GDi turbocharged petrol engine was replaced with the 8-speed automatic.^[42]

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  2024 facelift
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  Rear view
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  Interior

Markets

Europe

The short-wheelbase, European-spec fifth-generation Sportage was announced in September 2021.^[43] It is shorter in length by 135 mm (5.3 in), and shorter in wheelbase by 75 mm (3.0 in) compared to the international model. Other differences include the deletion of a window on the rear quarter panel, and a modified front fascia.^[44]

For the European market, Kia offers several range of drivetrains that includes plug-in hybrid, hybrid, mild hybrid, and diesel engine. The PHEV version features a 1.6-liter four-cylinder T-GDi engine and a 66.9 kW permanent magnet traction electric motor with a 13.8 kWh lithium-ion battery. The whole system produces 261 hp (265 PS; 195 kW). The hybrid model with same T-GDi engine and a 44.2 kW electric motor paired with a 1.49 kWh battery and produces 226 hp (229 PS; 169 kW).

The mild-hybrid model also uses the 1.6-liter T-GDi engine, which produces either 147 hp (149 PS; 110 kW) or 177 hp (179 PS; 132 kW). The 1.6-liter four-cylinder diesel engine is available with an option of 113 hp (115 PS; 84 kW) or 134 hp (136 PS; 100 kW) of power output. A 7-speed dual-clutch transmission is available for the 1.6-liter while a 6-speed manual transmission is standard for all variants. All European models are equipped with Stop-and-Go technology.^[45]

North America

The long-wheelbase, fifth-generation Sportage for United States and Canada was revealed in October 2021 as a 2023 model year.^[46] It is locally produced in West Point, Georgia instead of imported from South Korea.^[47] The hybrid version is equipped with the T-GDi engine and a 44.2 kW electric motor combined with a 1.49 kWh battery that also delivers 226 hp (229 PS; 169 kW). It has an estimated range of 500 mi (800 km) and can be optioned with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive with central differential lock.^[48]

Australia

The fifth-generation Sportage was launched in Australia on 4 November 2021, with four trim levels: S, SX, SX+ and GT Line. Three powertrains were available: a 1.6-litre T-GDi turbocharged petrol (AWD), a 2.0-litre MPi petrol (FWD) and a 2.0-litre CRDi turbocharged diesel (AWD).^[49]

In March 2024, a FWD Hybrid version was added to the range for the SX and GT Line trim levels.^[50]

New Zealand

The fifth-generation Sportage was released in New Zealand on 4 November 2021 with sales commenced in January 2022. At launch, four trim levels were available: LX, LX+, Deluxe and X-Line. Three powertrains were available: a 1.6-litre T-GDi turbocharged petrol (AWD), a 2.0-litre MPi petrol (FWD) marketed as the 'Urban' and a 2.0-litre CRDi turbocharged diesel (AWD).^[51][52]

In January 2024, the Hybrid version was added to the range with two variants available.^[53]

Vietnam

The fifth-generation Sportage was launched in Vietnam on 10 June 2022, in four trim levels: Luxury, Premium, Signature and Signature X-Line. Three powertrains were available: a 1.6-litre T-GDi turbocharged petrol, a 2.0-litre MPi petrol and a 2.0-litre CRDi turbocharged petrol; the former comes with AWD and the latter two comes with front wheel drive.^[54]

Brazil

The fifth-generation Sportage in the short-wheelbase version was launched in Brazil on 1 July 2022, with two trim levels: EX and EX Prestige; it is powered by a 1.6 T-GDi 48V turbocharged petrol mild hybrid.^[55]

South Africa

The fifth-generation Sportage in the short-wheelbase version was launched in South Africa on 15 September 2022, with five trim levels: LX, EX, GT Line, GT Line Plus and GT Line S. All variants are powered by a 1.6-litre T-GDi turbocharged petrol engine.^[56]

In May 2023, the 1.6-litre CRDi turbocharged petrol was added for the LX, EX and GT Line Plus trim levels.^[57]

In November 2023, the Sportage range was updated which saw the Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) safety package became standard on all variants. The 1.6-litre T-GDi petrol option was dropped for the LX and EX trim levels.^[58]

Mexico

The fifth-generation Sportage was launched in Mexico on 14 March 2023, in three trim levels: EX, EX Pack and SXL. Two powertrains are available: 2.0-litre MPi petrol and a 2.5-litre GDi petrol.^[59]

In February 2024, a Hybrid version based on the SXL trim was added to the range.^[60]

Powertrain

Specs

Model	Years	Engine	Transmissions	Power	Torque	0–100 km/h (0-62 mph) (Official)	Top speed
Petrol engines
Smartstream G1.6 T-GDi	2021–present	1,598 cc (97.5 cu in) turbocharged I4	7-speed DCT (dry)	180 PS (132 kW; 178 hp) @ 5,500 rpm	27 kg⋅m (265 N⋅m; 195 lbf⋅ft) @ 1,500–4,000 rpm
Smartstream G2.0 MPi		1,999 cc (122.0 cu in) I4	6-speed manual	152 PS (112 kW; 150 hp) @ 6,200 rpm 156 PS (115 kW; 154 hp) @ 6,200 rpm	19.6 kg⋅m (192 N⋅m; 142 lbf⋅ft) @ 4,500 rpm	10.9s (FWD) 11.2s (AWD)	183 km/h (114 mph)
			6-speed automatic			11.7s (FWD) 11.9s (AWD)	180 km/h (112 mph)
Smartstream G2.0 T-GDi		1,975 cc (120.5 cu in) I4	8-speed automatic	236 PS (174 kW; 233 hp) @ 6,000 rpm	36.0 kg⋅m (353 N⋅m; 260 lbf⋅ft) @ 1,500-4,000 rpm		210 km/h (130 mph)
Smartstream G2.5 GDi		2,497 cc (152.4 cu in) I4	8-speed automatic	190 PS (140 kW; 187 hp) @ 6,100 rpm	25 kg⋅m (245 N⋅m; 181 lbf⋅ft) @ 4,000 rpm	9.4s	197 km/h (122 mph)
Petrol hybrid
Smartstream G1.6 T-GDi 48V	2021–present	1,598 cc (97.5 cu in) turbocharged I4	6-speed manual	150 PS (110 kW; 148 hp) @ 5,500 rpm	25.5 kg⋅m (250 N⋅m; 184 lbf⋅ft) @ 1,500–4,000 rpm	10.3s	182 km/h (113 mph)
			7-speed DCT (dry)			9.7s (FWD) 9.8s (AWD)	188 km/h (117 mph)
Smartstream G1.6 T-GDi Hybrid			6-speed automatic	230 PS (169 kW; 227 hp) @ 5,500 rpm	35.7 kg⋅m (350 N⋅m; 258 lbf⋅ft) @ 1,500–4,500 rpm	8.0s (FWD) 8.3s (AWD)	193 km/h (120 mph)
Smartstream G1.6 T-GDi Plug-in Hybrid				265 PS (195 kW; 261 hp) @ 5,500 rpm		8.2s (AWD)	192 km/h (119 mph)
LPG
Smartstream L2.0 LPi	2022–present	1,999 cc (122.0 cu in) I4	6-speed automatic	146 PS (107 kW; 144 hp) @ 6,000 rpm	19.5 kg⋅m (191 N⋅m; 141 lbf⋅ft) @ 4,200 rpm
Diesel
Smartstream D1.6 CRDi	2021–present	1,598 cc (97.5 cu in) turbocharged I4	6-speed manual	115 PS (85 kW; 113 hp) @ 4,000 rpm	28.6 kg⋅m (280 N⋅m; 207 lbf⋅ft) @ 1,500–2,750 rpm	12.1s	175 km/h (109 mph)
			7-speed DCT (dry)	136 PS (100 kW; 134 hp) @ 4,000 rpm	32.6 kg⋅m (320 N⋅m; 236 lbf⋅ft) @ 2,000–2,250 rpm	11.4s (FWD) 11.6s (AWD)	180 km/h (112 mph)
Smartstream D2.0 CRDi		1,998 cc (121.9 cu in) turbocharged I4	8-speed automatic	186 PS (137 kW; 183 hp) @ 4,000 rpm	42.5 kg⋅m (417 N⋅m; 307 lbf⋅ft) @ 2,000–2,750 rpm

Safety

ANCAP scores[61] Overall Adult occupant 33.43/38.00 Child occupant 42.73/49.00 Vulnerable road user 36.10/54.00 Safety assist 11.90/16.00

Euro NCAP test results Kia Sportage (2022)[62] Test Points % Overall: Adult occupant: 33.4 87% Child occupant: 42.5 86% Pedestrian: 36.1 66% Safety assist: 11.6 72%

IIHS scores[63] Small overlap front (Driver) Good Small overlap front (Passenger) Good Moderate overlap front Good Side (original test) Good Roof strength Good Head restraints and seats Good Headlights Acceptable Poor varies by trim/option Front crash prevention: vehicle-to-vehicle Superior optional Front crash prevention: vehicle-to-vehicle Superior standard Front crash prevention: vehicle-to-pedestrian (Day) Superior optional Front crash prevention: vehicle-to-pedestrian (Day) Superior standard Child seat anchors (LATCH) ease of use Acceptable

Latin NCAP scores[64] Overall Adult occupant 82% Child occupant 72% Pedestrian and vulnerable road users 48% Safety assist systems 56%

Awards

In 2022, the Sportage won the 'Family SUV' and 'Full Hybrid' categories in the Scottish Car of the Year Awards.^[65] In 2023, the Sportage was chosen as Car of the Year in Morocco.^[66][67][68]

Sales

The Sportage was Kia's best selling model worldwide in 2016, overtaking the Rio.^[69]

Calendar year	U.S[70]	Canada[71]	Mexico[72]	Brazil	South Korea[73]	China			Europe[i][74][75]	Turkey	Australia	Malaysia[76][ii]		Global
						Sportage[77]	Sportage R[78]	KX5[79]				Kia Sportage	Naza Sportage
1998	28,582								5,830
1999	52,383								13,133
2000	62,350				2,506				18,320			139
2001	52,369				2,922				13,508			597
2002	39,436				1,399				5,820			525
2003	5,616			585[80]	0				2,913			327
2004	121			178[81]	27,559				1,394			202
2005	29,009			184[82]	57,031				38,631			378
2006	37,071			281[83]	35,867				32,147			263	1
2007	49,393			2,180[84]	32,563	5,713			32,076			222	7
2008	32,754			7,106[85]	23,974	32,500			26,372			317	0
2009	42,509			7,900[86]	27,874	43,828			22,687			637
2010	23,873			7,436[87]	44,770	67,740	11,713		29,219			143
2011	47,463			8,376[88]	52,018	44,754	64,341		67,623			641
2012	36,357	8,107		9,137[89]	43,993	41,182	75,969		83,023		4,260[90]	1,643		359,742[91]
2013	32,965	6,935		9,440[92]	29,168	44,952	88,285		90,342			1,408
2014	42,945	6,025		10,381[93]	47,729	40,474	96,472		96,556			1,192
2015	53,739	6,509	5,875	6,893[94]	52,748	29,461	81,522		104,984			541		399,969[95]
2016	81,066	11,410	18,772	4,505[96]	49,877	9,302	78,176	62,254	138,218			615		515,067[69]
2017	72,824	13,284	20,278	3,639[97]	42,232		32,514	20,641	129,595			703
2018	82,823	12,210	18,864	5,648[98]	37,373	13,873	75,180	5,951	121,197		14,042[99]	414		501,367[100]
2019	89,278	12,637	15,876	4,083[101]	28,271		85,708	8,703	110,514		13,645[102]	237
2020	84,343	11,789	8,168	1,625[103]	18,425		68,750	11,285	69,016		9,579[104]	46		366,929[105]
2021	94,601	11,837	8,372	1,192[106]	39,762		31,751	2,445	85,509		7,949[107]	0		363,630[108]
2022	125,245		1,975[109]	872[110]	55,394	19,586[111]		1,243[111]	140,327	3,404[112]	18,792[90]	2		452,068[113]
2023	140,780		6,855[114]	1,064[115]	69,749	10,887[116]		695[117]	202,303		15,747[118]	2		523,502[119]
2024	161,917		6,846	1,127[120]	74,255	13,350[121]			221,917		22,210[122]	20		587,717[123]

1. Europe: 2020 EU 27 + UK + Switzerland + Norway + Iceland
2. Figures based on registration (Malaysia)