2026 Kia Sportage Facelift Features Distinctive Design Updates

Kia has launched two different versions of the Sportage model, offering a small SUV for the European market, while a larger version is available in the American market. Both versions are set to be updated with facelift releases, and spy photos of the vehicle undergoing tests in Germany have already surfaced.

Despite being covered in camouflage, the car appears to feature a new front end design, a wider grille with horizontal bars. The grille is surrounded by vertical headlights with distinctive daytime running lights located at the outer parts of the vehicle. The front bumper has also been redesigned with new air intakes and fog lights. The rest of the design seems to remain as in the pre-facelift version, but with new taillights appearing beneath the camouflage and a new rear bumper.

There are no interior photos of the car yet, but it is expected to feature updated screens and more advanced equipment. Additionally, the model will likely come with updates to its driver assistance systems.

As for the engines, there are no details available yet. However, the current model features a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine equipped with mild hybrid technology, producing 148 horsepower, and can be paired with either a six-speed manual transmission or a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.

Customers can also opt for a hybrid version that features a 1.6-liter turbocharged engine, an electric motor, and a 1.49 kWh lithium-ion battery, providing a combined power output of 226 horsepower. There is also another hybrid version with a larger 13.8 kWh battery, which gives the crossover a total power output of 261 horsepower, along with an all-electric range of up to 69 km.