2026 Kia Sportage To Receive New Refresh

The 2026 Kia Sportage is expected to arrive with new changes. Recent spy shots hint at a new refresh for the crossover SUV.  Based on the camouflaged prototype, the 2026 Sportage will receive several new updates focused on the SUV’s appearance. These changes appear to be a facelift affecting the SUV’s front grille, headlights, and bumper. As of late, Kia has been dominating the EV market with its lineup. The South Korean automaker recently saw record EV sales, yet continues to offer impressive models like the Kia EV4. Hybrids like the Kia Sorento have also been a focus. Despite the EV focus, the automaker is still showing attention to its ICE lineup having announced its first pickup truck, the all-new Kia Tasman. Models like the Sportage are also receiving updates. For now, we’ll take a look at the 2026 Kia Sportage and see what consumers can expect.

Prototype Kia Sportage Spotted

Spy shots of the 2026 Kia Sportage suggest the crossover SUV may arrive with a new refresh. Based on the camouflaged prototype, Kia is giving the Sportage a facelift that will affect its grille and headlights. The crossover SUV will feature a new rectangular grille that is complemented by vertical headlights. These headlights will feature daytime running lights at their outer edges. The 2026 Sportage also receives a new front bumper with vertical fog lights and a rectangular central intake. At the rear, the SUV features a new bumper with reflectors and a center-mounted light.

Aside from aesthetic changes, the 2026 Sportage is unlikely to receive any performance updates. The crossover SUV features several powertrain options. A hybrid option equips the Sportage with a 1.6L inline-four engine paired with two electric motors to deliver 227 horsepower. Another variation utilizes the same hybrid setup only it features a larger battery pack for a total of 261 horsepower. For those wanting a non-hybrid SUV, the Sportage offers a 2.5L four-cylinder engine that delivers 187 horsepower. This is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Both front-wheel and all-wheel drive are available.  

Inside the 2026 Kia Sportage, consumers can expect a stylish interior cabin with seating for five. Although it’s a crossover SUV, the Sportage offers comfortable seating and adequate storage capacity. Behind the 2nd row, there is 39.6 cubic feet of space. This increases to 74.1 cubic feet with the seats folded down. For entertainment, the Sportage features dual 12.3-inch displays that serve as the digital gauge cluster and infotainment screen. This dual display provides drivers with a host of driver-assist features like a blind-spot monitor and a 360-degree surround view monitor. Safety features include automatic emergency braking, blind-spot collision avoidance, and more. At a starting MSRP of $27,190 (plus destination fee), the 2026 Kia Sportage is not only affordable but also versatile with a lot to offer. This upcoming refresh looks promising as it will keep the Sportage relevant amid a sea of SUVs. For now, we’ll be staying tuned for more information. 

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Photo Credit: Kia