Kia made a strong comeback in Pakistan back in 2018 with the introduction of the then-current generation CBU imported model of Carnival luxury MPV. The following year, the automaker launched the Sportage, which went on to become one of the most popular locally assembled vehicles in the country. However, what followed was unexpected and marked a notable shift in direction, leaving many disappointed.
Right after Sportage was launched in 2019, Kia introduced the Picanto hatchback in Pakistan but it was a globally discontinued second-generation model that was introduced nearly three years after the 3rd generation model had already made its global debut. But the surprises didn’t stop there. At the start of 2021, the outdated third-generation Sorento was introduced to the Pakistani market, just as the new fourth-generation model was creating a buzz worldwide.
Kia’s only up-to-date offering in Pakistan happens to be the Stonic which is also among the slowest-selling models in the company’s product lineup. In over 6 years of its presence in our market, Kia has heavily relied on selling globally obsolete models. This strategy has also taken a toll on Sportage sales, which became globally obsolete in 2021 with the arrival of the fifth-generation model, yet Kia continues to offer the retired fourth-generation version locally. Today Pakistan is the only market in the world where this generation of Sportage is still being sold.
Related: 6 Years of Kia in Pakistan and Nothing but Obsolete Cars
Thankfully, late last year camouflaged test mules of the 5th generation Sportage were spotted testing in Pakistan as reports surfaced about the possible launch in 2025.
5th gen Sportage unveiled in a private event
Now recently, images from a private event surfaced online, showing the unveiling of the fifth-generation Sportage to a select audience, likely dealers and company executives. While this might seem like an exciting development, it’s rather disappointing, as it’s still the pre-facelift version of the Sportage, which debuted nearly four years ago. Meanwhile, the significantly facelifted model, which was launched last year, has been ruled out for a Pakistani release.
While Kia’s actual slogan is “Movement That Inspires” it’s certainly not the best of inspirations for Pakistan auto consumers to see the South Korean brand selling discarded models here at exorbitant prices. With Kia introducing models here that have already been phased out globally, while sugarcoating it with flashy marketing slogans, it’s more fittingly described as a ‘Movement That Expired!
Related: Is Kia About to “Introduce” 2 More Obsolete Cars in Pakistan?
The details of the 5th gen Sportage pre-facelift for Pakistan are yet to be officially released, but it is largely believed to have a 2.0L petrol engine producing 154 hp and 192 Nm of torque, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission (FWD) and offering a fuel efficiency of 13 km/l. A 1.6L Hybrid Turbo variant delivering 227 hp and 305 Nm, also coupled with a 6-speed automatic transmission (FWD) and an estimated fuel consumption of around 18 km/l is also expected to be on the cards.
With the 5th gen Sportage facelift already making its debut late last year, it’s quite disappointing to see Kia preparing to dump yet another outdated model to the Pakistani market, much like it did with the Picanto and Sorento launches. As per sources, the official launch of the pre-facelift 5th generation Kia Sportage in Pakistan is scheduled for February 2025.
What are your thoughts on the ultimate arrival of the pre-facelift fifth-generation Kia Sportage in Pakistan in 2025? Share your opinions in the comment section below.
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
