Kia Sportage: Successful model refreshed
Kia is sending the fifth generation of the Sportage into the second half of its life cycle with a refreshed look. The focus was on details - such as the center console.
While Kia is in the fast lane with its electric models - five models from the compact EV3 to the stately EV9 as well as the modular PBV commercial vehicle platform speak for themselves - the backbone of the brand remains a classic combustion engine: the Sportage. Since its launch in 1994, the SUV has sold over seven million units worldwide and its success in Switzerland remains unbroken. In the first half of the year, almost every third Kia sold was a Sportage - even though the current generation has been on the market virtually unchanged for almost four years. The facelift now presented remains true to the recipe for success: a wide range of drive systems, from pure petrol and diesel to mild, full and plug-in hybrids. "The diesel version will not be available in Switzerland and therefore no mild hybrid," explains Philipp Reis, PR & Communication Specialist at Kia, "but many variants will still be available with all-wheel drive - an important argument on the Swiss market.
Familiar design language
Despite a slightly shorter wheelbase, the revised Sportage offers the same amount of space as its predecessor. This is made possible by the extended overhangs. This makes the handling more dynamic without compromising the interior. The latter has been comprehensively revised: more recycled materials, more mono materials and a generally tidier design in the style of the EV models. The continuous display unit consisting of two 12.3-inch screens, combined with a 10-inch head-up display and a two-spoke steering wheel, creates a modern look. Kia paid particular attention to the center console. Instead of piano lacquer, matt plastic is now used there. According to Kia, they listened to the criticism from customers who complained about the constant fingerprints and scratches.
In terms of technology, the Sportage comes with new assistance systems, such as the highway assistant, which can now also handle assisted lane changes. Less pleasing is the fact that the warning messages, such as the speed limit detection, can only be deactivated in a cumbersome manner. The Sportage also has a much more modern look, adopting the brand's typical "Opposites United" design. The slightly sloping roofline, the strikingly rising window line and the new headlights with characteristic LED signature - already familiar from the EV3, EV9 and Picanto - give the compact SUV a fresh but recognizable face.
At the market launch, the petrol versions will be available first, with the hybrid and plug-in hybrid following later. Swiss prices are not yet known, but will be announced in September.
