Kia is making waves at the 2024 Los Angeles Auto Show with a lineup of updated models, including a refreshed version of its best-selling SUV, the Sportage. While this updated crossover has already been introduced in South Korea, its North American version is now set to showcase the same design enhancements and a host of technological upgrades.
For the 2026 North American Sportage, the SUV adopts the updated global design, featuring vertically stacked headlights and a reshaped grille. Trim-specific styling tweaks, such as boxier bumper intakes, help distinguish the various models. The rugged X-Line trim flaunts gloss-black accents, while lower trims present subtler variations. Kia's designers have focused on fine-tuning the details rather than pursuing a complete overhaul. Though subtle, the adjustments successfully inject a modernized feel to the SUV's exterior.
The Sportage's profile remains largely unchanged, save for new wheel designs that help differentiate trims. The X-Line rides on 19-inch alloy wheels fitted with all-season tires, while the more off-road-oriented X-Pro Prestige goes for functionality with 17-inch wheels and BF Goodrich all-terrain tires. At the rear, updates are minimal yet noticeable, including a reworked bumper and refreshed LED taillight graphics for a more polished look.
Inside, the updates are more substantial. The redesigned dashboard creates a sleeker appearance, anchored by dual 12.3-inch digital displays housed within a single panel that gently angles toward the driver. These displays are now standard across all trims. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto also come standard, alongside a Smart Key with remote start. Kia has integrated over-the-air update functionality, ensuring the system can evolve with new features. Additionally, the optional Digital Key 2.0 allows drivers to use their smartphones as a key, though this convenience comes at an extra cost.
Under the hood, the 2026 Sportage continues to offer a range of powertrain options, including internal combustion, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid configurations. The base model retains its 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 187 horsepower paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. U.S. buyers, however, won’t have access to the 1.6-liter turbocharged engine with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic now available in South Korea. The hybrid model sees a slight power increase to 231 horsepower, thanks to a stronger electric motor and improved regenerative braking. The plug-in hybrid also gets a small boost, with total output climbing to 268 horsepower.
Kia has introduced two new hybrid trims: the S trim, featuring black exterior accents, heated seats, and blind-spot collision warning; and the X-Line, which adds 19-inch wheels, upgraded interior materials, and luxury features like a power liftgate. The refreshed Sportage is expected to arrive at U.S. dealerships by the second quarter of 2025, with pricing details to be announced closer to its launch.