The updated 2018 Kia Sportage has been revealed, the popular midsize SUV gets new drivetrains, a refreshed design and additional safety tech.
The headline act for the updated Sportage is the new EcoDynamic+ 48V diesel mild-hybrid drivetrain which is another step in Kia’s move towards electrification. Unfortunately, Kia’s local arm has ruled out selling mild-hybrid in Oz.
In Europe, the current 1.7-litre CRDi diesel engine will be replaced by a more efficient 1.6-litre ‘U3’ CRDi engine which produces either 85kW or 100kW. In the 100kW tune, it’s paired with a seven-speed double-clutch transmission.
Subtle styling improvements to the exterior include new front and rear bumpers, redesigned front and rear lamps, new 16-, 17- and 19-inch alloy wheel designs, optional chrome sill trim and metallic skid plates as well as five new paint colours.
On the inside, a new steering wheel and revised instrument cluster compliment the new black-and-grey two-tone upholstery.
For something extra special, GT-Line models will come equipped with a host of special features including a gloss black hot-stamped radiator grille, a gloss black and silver skid plate, dark chrome inserts on the side sills and rear tailgate, redesigned 19-inch alloy wheels, dual exhaust rear valance and revised ‘ice cube’ LED fog lamp designs. Black-and-grey two-tone cloth seats or optional faux black leather with red stitching are also available in the cabin.
Additional safety kit comes in the form of the advanced driver assistance systems such as smart cruise control with stop & go function, 360-degree camera system and a driver attention warning.
Our European cousins will also get the option of either a 7.0-inch touchscreen or frameless 8.0-inch infotainment system which will hopefully find its way to the colony without much delay.
Local specifications and pricing still to be confirmed, however, the updated Sportage is scheduled to arrive in Australia in July.
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