The Kia Sportage, which is the bestselling vehicle in the South Korean automaker’s global lineup, is currently in its 5th generation which debuted in June 2021. Now latest reports have surfaced indicating that Kia is already working on the 5th-generation Sportage facelift.
Reportedly, prototypes are already being tested inside the Hyundai-Kia R&D Center, with the first camouflaged test mules to hit the real world in early 2024. Bear in mind, Hyundai Tucson which is considered a sister product of Sportage has already received a facelift.
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Following the recent facelifts released by Kia, folks at NYMammoth imagined how the refreshed Sportage could look. The rendering shows a new front fascia inspired by what we already have seen in the updated Sorento and Carnival.
If the renderings are to be believed, the design will likely include new headlamps with a T-shaped DRL layout on either side of the quad-LED main beam assembly. In addition to the changes to the front grille and lower bumper, the character lines on the bonnet now appear to be wider than they were in the pre-facelift guise.
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Inside, looking at the recently released Sorento or Carnival, one can expect Kia will use the same third-screen curved glass technology, as well as the latest safety and tech features, including on-demand features, for the redesigned Kia Sportage. Furthermore, a new EV9-inspired steering wheel, a pair of 12,3 curved displays with a cNCC Infotainment system and more will be added to the updated Sportage.
Regarding the powertrain, there won’t be many changes apart from some fine-tuning to make the engines more efficient. Plus, the addition of a higher-density battery pack to increase the electric range in the PHEV variant is likely on the cards. Another change confirmed is the discontinuation of DCT transmission in favor of the 8-speed AT.
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That being said, the 5th-gen Kia Sportage facelift will likely make its debut towards the second half of 2024 beginning from its home market of South Korea. Bear in mind, that the Sportage comes in two wheelbase options, a longer wheelbase version for international, North American, and South Korean domestic markets, and a shorter wheelbase version for the European, South African, and most RHD markets. The refreshed Sportage may begin reaching global markets either towards the end of 2024 or early 2025.
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
