The Kia Sportage has long served as the bold and different choice within a rather bland Compact SUV segment, which drew many to its unique character. And, for 2026, Kia is continuing to add upon this reputation with a slew of 2026 Updates! This article is going to cover all the updates for the 2026 Kia Sportage but be sure to watch the video at the bottom of this article for an in-depth design review!

What’s New for 2026?

  • Refreshed for 2026 with new styling
  • Added technology and luxury
  • Updated trim lineup

Trims and Pricing

Gas Trims: LX -> EX -> X-Line -> SX -> SX Prestige -> X-Pro Prestige

Hybrid Trims: LX -> S -> EX -> X-Line -> SX Prestige

PHEV Trims: X-Line -> X-Line Prestige

Pricing will be released later in 2025, but we do expect a slight price increase on all models. The Sportage is expected to hit lots in Quarter 2 of 2025.

Sportage Models
Sportage X Front
Sportage Hyb Front
Sportage SIde
SPortage Rear
Sportage Interior
SPortage Thumb

Design and Features

As mentioned above, please watch the video linked below for a full in-depth exploration of the exterior design and differences. While the Sportage retains a familiar look, it gains many of the recent design elements Kia has been rolling out across the lineup. Those elements include updated Opposites United language with standard Star Map Signature lighting. Luxury and Off-road designs continue to be available.

 

Here is the full breakdown of what we know about the feature availability:

 

Feature

Availability

Exterior

LED Headlights

Standard with LEDs | Projectors on Prestige models

LED Fog Lamps

Prestige Models

Wheels

17-19-inch alloys with new designs

Mirrors

EX+: heated, BSM, and LED turn signal | Black on X Trims | SX+: Power Folding

Black Roof

Available on some trims

LED Taillights

Standard LED Accents

Dual-Exhaust Outlets

None

Towing Capacity

3,500 lbs max | 2,000 lbs for HEV/PHEV

Forward Emergency Braking

Standard on all Sportage Models

Lane Keep Assist

Auto High Beams

Adaptive Cruise Control

SX and Prestiges

Highway Drive Assist

Interior

Remote Start and Digital Key

Available

Smart Entry

Standard

Seat Materials

Cloth or SynTex Leatherette Available

Seat Adjustment

EX+: 10-way with 2-way lumbar | SX/X-Pro+: Memory

Push Button Start

Standard

Gauge Cluster

Standard: 4.2-in Configurable with Digital Numbers | Upper Trims: 12.3-in full digital display

Blind View Monitor

Prestige Exclusive

Head-Up Display

Newly Available

Steering Wheel

Standard Leather Wrapped | Heating on Prestiges

Rain-Sensing Wipers

Available

Wireless Charging

Standard on EX+

360 Degree Camera

Prestige Exclusive

2-Zone Climate Controls

Standard on EX+

Seat Climate

Heated Seats: EX+ | Ventilated Seats: Prestige Models

Audio System

Standard: 6-Speakers | Upper Trims: 8-Speakers Harmon Kardon Premium Audio

Screen

Newly Standard 12.3-inch display with Wireless Connections

Moonroof

Panoramic Standard on Upper Trims

Rear Amenities

USB Ports

Standard

Tailgate

Hands-Free Power EX+

 

For in depth details on the 2026 Sportage, watch our full look review linked at the bottom of this article.

Sportage Hyb Front

What’s Under the Hood?

The Sportage still offers three unique powertrain options:

  • Gas:
    • 2.5L I-4: 187 hp | 178 lb.ft
    • Paired w/ 8-speed automatic
  • Hybrid:
    • 1.6L Turbo I-4 + elec: 231 hp | + 4 from last year
    • Paired w/ 6-speed automatic
  • PHEV:
    • 1.6L Turbo I-4 + 13.8 kWh Batter: 268 hp | + 7 from last year
    • Paired w/ 6-speed automatic

The fuel economy for each model is shown as currently rated for 2026. Hybrid models will follow:

FWD: 25/33/28 MPG

AWD: 23/27/25 MPG

We hope you have found this overview of the 2026 Kia Sportage helpful! For a more detailed first look of the Sportage, please watch our video below! What do you think of the 2026 Kia Sportage? Let us know in the comments!