Compact SUVs are popular and automakers have no choice but to follow the parade. Kia is preparing to renew its offering in the segment with the international unveiling of the new Sportage, which will land here in 2022 as a 2023 model with not only flamboyant style but also with a whole new mechanical offering. Here are the most recent details.
It is a profound transformation that will undergo the Kia Sportage for 2022 when it will land on several foreign markets before putting its wheels on our premises as a 2023 model.
First, a new architecture named N3 – the same one used for the Hyundai Tucson – will underpin two Sportage models, the short wheelbase and the long wheelbase. The latter is the only one that will be offered in Canada, a strategy that resembles that used by Volkswagen for the Tiguan, also offered in two wheelbases internationally.
Beyond the structure, the engines offered will be completely redesigned. Say goodbye to the 2.4-liter 4-cylinder and the 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder; they will be replaced here by a 1.6-liter turbo 4-cylinder engine producing 177 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque and mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic. Two hybrid powertrains, one of which is plug-in, are also in the boxes, but few details on these electrified mechanics have been released by Kia. It’s a safe bet that they will be identical to those of the Hyundai Tucson, its technical twin.
In terms of handling, the compact SUV will use a MacPherson-type front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension. New shocks with continuously adaptive damping will be offered as well as the E-Handling system, two technologies that should improve handling, we are told.
New versions will be offered, like the brand’s other models. So we will see the advent of the X-Line versions with an off-road trend and GT-Line with a sporty trend for the first time in the Sportage. Depending on the version, the driving mode selector will give access to programs that will be useful on the road, but also off-road, thanks to the “Terrain” modes. Wheels from 17 to 19 inches will be available.
Flamboyant design
Beyond the obvious technical improvements and the arrival of different versions, the style of the vehicle will also take a leap forward. Not only are the radiator grille and headlights unique, but so is the rear portion. While it is difficult to identify a link with the other SUVs in the lineup, such as the new Kia Sorento or the Kia Telluride, it is easy to see the resemblance to the electric Kia EV6, especially at the rear.
The place where the Kia Sportage attracts the most attention, however, is on board. The truly spectacular dashboard of the fully equipped version is made up of two 12-inch screens that act as instrumentation and multimedia system. Among the other changes, a new console with thumbwheel for the transmission is standard and the rear space will also be increased compared to the current version, which is also considered a little small. With such an interior, it stands out from other models offered in the segment, which generally offer a more classic approach.
More details on the North American versions of this new Kia Sportage will be unveiled as the model’s arrival on Canadian soil approaches, sometime in 2022.
