The Kia Sportage has been a top choice for small SUV buyers since its debut in 2023. With excellent fuel economy, a roomy interior, an affordable price, and eye-catching design, it's easy to see why it ranks high in the Compact SUV category.
Kia recently unveiled the 2026 Sportage in Korea, and the updates are impressive. The refreshed model comes with new styling, tech upgrades, and possible engine changes. Although it’s currently only seen on Kia’s Korean website, it will likely reach the United States in about six months.
The most noticeable change is the exterior styling. The 2026 Sportage gets a reimagined front end, featuring a larger, more upright grille and vertical daytime running lights. The front bumper has also been redesigned with squared-off air intakes. The rugged X-Line trim now includes a unique grille pattern, fog lights, and blocky bumper elements.
image: Kia
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At the back, the taillights are more geometric, and the rear bumper has a subtle redesign. These changes align the Sportage’s appearance with Kia's newer models, like the EV9.
Inside, the Sportage receives major updates. The dashboard now features a double-display screen similar to what’s found in Hyundai’s Ioniq and Tucson models. This setup includes dual 12.3-inch screens for a sleek, modern look. There’s also a new steering wheel with flat top and bottom edges.
image: Kia
Kia has packed the SUV with desirable tech features. These include wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, over-the-air updates, a head-up display, and Highway Driving Assist 2, which offers lane-changing assistance. There’s even a remote parking assist feature and a fingerprint authentication system for added convenience.
The powertrain lineup has also seen some adjustments. The 1.6-liter turbocharged hybrid engine remains, but the non-hybrid 2.5-liter engine is missing from the Korean version. Instead, a 2.0-liter engine is available, possibly borrowed from the Kia K4. For North America, Kia may stick with the 2.5-liter engine or introduce the new 2.0-liter option.
image: Kia
In South Korea, the hybrid model now features an improved 1.6-liter engine paired with an electric motor, delivering slightly more power and smoother regenerative braking. The new eight-speed automatic transmission replaces the old seven-speed dual-clutch, promising better driving dynamics.
Global Rollout and Pricing
The refreshed Sportage will soon be available in global markets. In South Korea, prices start at ₩28.36 million (about $34,200 NZD) and can go up to ₩48.70 million ($58,800 NZD), depending on the trim and engine choice.
While Kia hasn’t officially confirmed details for the U.S. model, we expect to learn more, perhaps at the upcoming L.A. Auto Show. Until then, buyers can anticipate slightly higher starting prices compared to the current models, which are priced at $28,565 for the base version and $29,965 for the hybrid.