We would have to agree with the Cnet.com auto review staff here at Jim Butler Kia of St Louis when we take a close look at the incoming Sportage SUV: it does “look of a completely different lineage” sitting next to the SUV it replaces. In addition, it offers new hybrid powertrain, much improved cabin technology, and the latest driver assistance features. The new Sportage measures in at 183.5 inches from front to back, 7.1 inches longer than the current model.
At just .4 inches wider than the 2022 Sportage, the new look carries with it a proportional balance, and charming and modern good looks bound to turn heads immediately. After this massive growth spurt, the interior is more spacious, allowing for more legroom than the competing Toyota Rav 4 hybrid, especially in the second row where it gained 3.5 inches. One of the first things the Cnet.com testing crew noticed was the premium look of the exterior finish, contrasting well with glossy black trim around the body and wheel arches.
The power source for this coming-soon hybrid is a 1.6-liter turbocharged inline-4 paired to a 44-kilowatt electric motor, along with a 15-kilowatt-hour lithium-polymer battery. Together they generate 227 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission to either the front wheels or optional AWD. The comfort-tuned SUV that was delivered to the Cnet crew, came with the Normal, Eco, and Sport user-selectable drive modes, with the Sport option being our personal favorite.
After dialing it in, you’ll enjoy an increased throttle response, tightened steering sensation, and raised transmission shifting interval. The hybrid is the most powerful available Sportage variant, and proved to be valuable with its smooth acceleration and segment-leading highway passing ability. The front-drive Sportage Hybrid averages 42 mpg in the city, 48 mpg highway, and 43 mpg combined, with the all-wheel drive yielding 38 mpg.
Those who are rightfully impressed by the Sportage Hybrid’s performance could see the upcoming plug-in hybrid model’s official launch later this year, with a 7.2-kWh battery pack that can be recharged at an outlet or station for up to 32 miles of electric range. Inside you’ll also find the dual-display system that boasts two infotainment screens on the dashboard, with the EV menus seen in the EV6 exchanged for hybrid screens. On the left is the 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and information display, and on the right is where you’ll find KIA’s high-ranked UVO touchscreen infotainment system.
Each trim level comes standard with the amazing and very useful addition of the Drivewise driver aid suite, bringing along forward-collision avoidance with braking assist, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. We would also have to steer anyone loving the extra things in life toward the Prestige trim, sporting the added luxury touches of premium synthetic seats, rain-sensing wipers, a backup camera, panoramic roof, and leather steering wheel.
