Kia has given its big-selling Sportage SUV a major update for 2025.
So what's changed?
On the outside, quite a lot. The arrowhead LED running lights have gone, and been replaced by a new set of LED headlamp and running lights combos, with a more wrapover look to the LED signature, in line with the styling of other recent Kias such as the EV3 and the incoming new EV5 (which is to all intents and purposes an all-electric Sportage). The grille is a bit more upright now too. There aren't as many visual differences down the side, although there are new 17-, 18-, and 19-inch alloy wheels, but around the rear, the brake lights are blockier and stand out from the bodywork a little more.
What about the inside?
There's a new two-spoke steering wheel - again, lifted in design more or less from the EV3 - while there's also new trims, new hidden air vents, and for GT-Line and GT-Line S models a new man-made suede trim.
That man-made suede, called Dinamica, has been developed by working with Japanese company Asahi Kasei, and it has managed to significantly increase the percentage of recycled polyester, ranging from 73 to 75 per cent in Kia's vehicles. There are plans to ramp that up to 100 per cent in the very near future.
The overall space remains the same, and the boot volume is unchanged at 587 litres.
Any tech upgrades?
Nothing massive - the 12.3-inch touchscreen, which joins up with the driver's digital instrument panel remains the same, but it does gain wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, while the Kia Connect system, which links to your smartphone, allows you to check the car's status and send route planning to the built-in sat-nav. There's also a new 'Feature On Demand' system, which is essentially an app store, and which allows you to add extra apps and even video games, YouTube, and other streaming options, to the screen.
Kia has also added a Kia In-Car Payment system which allows you to pay for on-street parking, and there's a WiFi hotspot which can connect up to five devices at the same time. There's a Digital Key, which allows you - and anyone you share it with - to unlock the Sportage using your phone, and for audiophiles, there's an optional Harmon/Kardon stereo.
Any changes to the engines?
Nope - the same lineup of hybrid and turbo petrol models as before, with a plug-in hybrid due again soon. There have been some safety upgrades, including emergency automated braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection, and Highway Driving Assist 2, which includes automated lane changing.
“With a fully upgraded package, ready for every adventure, the most refined Sportage ever appeals to a wide variety of consumers, including our legacy customers, as it offers new levels of versatility, convenience and comfort,” said Sjoerd Knipping, COO at Kia Europe.
Sales will start in the autumn.