Next generation Kia Sportage was seen testing at the infamous Nürburgring track as the popular South Korean SUV approaches the final stages of development.
The camouflaged test mule was reportedly the plug-in hybrid variant & short-wheelbase model since just like its cousin the new Hyundai Tucson, the all new Kia Sportage will come available in both short and long wheelbase versions.
The 5th generation Kia Sportage test mule at the Nürburgring was without heavy camouflage wrap (was wearing only sticker camo) allowing us to get an idea of the new look. Better still we already have seen the speculative renderings to better understand what to expect from the all new Sportage in terms of looks.
The launch of all new Sportage has hit multiple delays already as it was supposed to be revealed earlier this year, then was expected to be unveiled alongside its cousin Hyundai Tucson. The reason of the delay is reportedly due to making improvements in design and marketability through internal discussions with Kia, including recently inaugurated chairman of Hyundai Motor Group, Euisun Chung.
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As per reports, Euisun Chung participated in the meetings and coordinated some improvements with design and product chiefs. According to the sources, the new Sportage tailgate design and other details were under discussion and despite the opinion that the development period could be extended, Chairman Chung emphasized in ‘perfect quality’ and directed improvement, instead of not launching the right product.
Sportage has been positioned as a major volume model of Kia Motors not only in the domestic but also global markets, so through this complete change model, it is a strategy to significantly improve its marketability and establish itself as the representative SUV model of the South Korean automaker. According to Kia:
“Sportage is a model with the largest export volume among Kia Motors, and therefore, we have to pay attention to perfect quality in all areas, from design to performance.”
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The all new Kia Sportage is expected to break covers towards April 2021 and will go on sale from mid 2021 as a 2022 model year vehicle, stay tuned to CarSpiritPK for more information.
A computer animation professional with over 23 years of industry experience having served in leading organizations, TV channels & production facilities in Pakistan. An avid car enthusiast and petrolhead with an affection to deliver quality content to help shape opinions. Formerly written for PakWheels as well as major publications including Dawn. Founder of CarSpiritPK.com
