Details of Kia’s fifth-generation Sportage have been revealed with the popular urban SUV developed on a new architecture.

The all-new Sportage is the result of a collaborative effort between Kia’s main global design network in Korea, Germany, the US and China.

The Sportage is one of Kia New Zealand’s most popular vehicles, with it finishing 2020 as the second best selling vehicle with 2907 registrations. The all-new model is expected to be launched here in early 2022.

“The Kia Sportage epitomises what a family-friendly SUV should be, so it’s understandable that it has enjoyed particular sales success, nowhere more so than here in New Zealand,” said Managing Director of Kia New Zealand, Todd McDonald.

“We are eagerly awaiting the arrival of the all-new model as it offers enhanced aesthetics, a new driving system which improves ride and handling, together with a premium interior complemented by outstanding occupant safety.  

“There has been considerable interest in the new Sportage, and that’s even before details such as model line up, specification and price have been revealed.”

The all-new Sportage combines a driver-centric design with a state-of-the-art premium interior featuring a swooping integrated curved display that houses the very latest advancements in connectivity tech.

An ergonomic centre console has been optimally positioned for the driver and front passenger, providing storage, operating system configuration, cupholders, and soft-touch switches, the latter sitting on a raised profile alongside the shift-by-wire transmission dial. A smartphone charging bay offers high-speed wireless charging.

It has a wheelbase of 2755mm, a width of 1865mm, length of 4660mm, and height of 1660mm. This has resulted in a package that is class-leading for legroom, headroom and luggage capacity.

From launch, a high-tech 1.6-litre TGDI powertrain will be offered in the all-new Sportage line-up, generating 134kW of power and 265Nm of torque.

Also included in the launch line-up is a new and highly efficient R2.0-litre diesel engine featuring an advanced variable geometry turbocharger that helps it to develop 139kW and 417Nm of torque. 

The 1.6-litre TGDI engine is available with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (7DCT). The new R2.0-litre diesel engine comes with an extensively re-engineered 8-speed automatic transmission. 

The Sportage range will also feature hybrid (HEV) and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) models that deliver a no-compromise eco-friendly SUV package. More information about the high-tech electrified all-new Sportage models, along with other gasoline and diesel variants, will be made available near the start of sales.

 A Terrain Mode gives all-new Sportage outstanding ride capabilities in more challenging conditions such as snow, mud, and sand, allowing owners to pursue more adventurous leisure activities.

The all-new Sportage is the first Kia vehicle to be available in long-wheelbase and short-wheelbase model variants depending on the region.