South Korean automaker Kia has rolled yet another dice in the competitive crossover SUV segment. Yes, the new 2023 Kia Sportage crossover SUV brings in a breath of fresh air in terms of design and technology. The Sportage is one of the successful formulas for Kia, and the new avatar of the SUV gets even better.
Originally, Kia Sportage is a compact SUV with comfortable seats and an array of features. However, the 2023 Kia Sportage has evolved to an extent that it has grown to be a mid-size crossover SUV. It’s not only the dimensions that have leapt but also the design. Kia has hit the bull’s eye with the design language of the new Kia Sportage.
The 2023 Kia Sportage is based on the new N3 architecture. Kia’s larger Sorento SUV is also based on the same platform. If you are planning to consider the Kia Sportage as your next SUV, then you have landed on the right page! Read on for the 2023 Kia Sportage release date, redesign, features, specifications, price and much more.
2023 Kia Sportage Design
The exterior design of the new 2023 Kia Sportage is a mix of crisp lines, angular panels and a muscular outlook. The body cladding gives a rugged look to the rather domestic-looking SUV. Upfront, the boomerang-shaped LED DRLs attract your attention as they make for a dramatic design element. The tiger-nose front grille, uniquely-shaped headlamp housing and the large air dam accentuate the front fascia of the SUV.
The rear profile of the Sportage features notch-shaped LED taillights and a black panel running across the boot lid that connects the taillights. The blacked-out lower part of the boot lid and rear bumper adds to the rugged look of the SUV. The large alloy wheels and roof rails further enhance the looks of the Sportage. Overall, the exterior design is appealing and can be a head-turner when you drive out the new Sportage.
2023 Kia Sportage Interior
The new Kia Sportage gets a redesigned interior with upmarket materials and a host of new creature comfort features. The dashboard is dominated by two large panoramic curved displays for the instrument cluster and the infotainment system. The cabin also features an asymmetrical centre console with cup holders and a touchpad for the AC and audio controls. The angular AC vents with chrome accents add to the premium look of the interior.
Since the new Sportage has grown in dimensions, the interior space has also improved. Kia states that the new design has improved the legroom for the passengers and also the boot space. The crossover has class-leading second-row legroom and best-in-class boot space. Overall, the interior is futuristic, modern and elegant.
2023 Kia Sportage Features
As we mentioned before, the 2023 Sportage gets an all-new cabin with a plethora of new features. From the connectivity to creature comfort, the SUV has it all. You get all the bells and whistles for a comfortable drive. Below are some of the prominent features of the compact crossover.
- Dual 12.3-inch panoramic display for the infotainment and instrument cluster.
- Smart power liftgate or boot lid.
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity.
- A 360-degree surround-view monitor.
- Wireless charging.
- Premium Harman Kardon audio system.
- Luxurious SynTex seating materials.
2023 Kia Sportage Safety Features
The new avatar of the Kia Sportage comes with advanced safety features as standard on all the trim levels. Below are some of the important safety features of the crossover.
- Forward collision avoidance assist
- Blindspot collision avoidance assist
- Rear cross-traffic collision avoidance assist
- Lane following assist
- Safe exit assist
- Reverse parking distance warning
2023 Kia Sportage Specifications
Engine
Kia is yet to reveal the engine options on the new 2023 Sportage. However, it is likely to get the 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine. The same engine does its duty on the Hyundai Tucson.
The 2023 Kia Sportage Hybrid will draw power from a 1.6-litre turbocharged engine. The hybrid system comprises a 44kW electric motor and a 1.49 kW lithium-ion battery pack. The combined power output stands at 226hp.
Transmission and Drivetrain
The 2.5-litre engine is coupled with an 8-speed automatic gearbox. FWD is standard across all the variants, and the AWD is optional. However, if you opt for the X-Line or X-Pro variants, AWD is standard. The hybrid variant is also available with an all-wheel-drive system.
2023 Kia Sportage Images
2023 Kia Sportage Video
2023 Kia Sportage Fuel Economy
The new Kia Sportage Hybrid is claimed to deliver a fuel economy of up to 39 mpg. So, the hybrid variant of the crossover might be a good choice for some who are looking for good fuel economy.
2023 Kia Sportage Price and Variants
The 2023 Kia Sportage will be available in an array of trims that include: LX, EX, SX, SX-Prestige and X-Line. Kia will also offer off-road-focused X-Pro and X-Pro Prestige variants. There is no information about the pricing. However, the 2023 Kia Sportage is expected to carry a starting MSRP of around $25,000.
2023 Kia Sportage Release Date
The 2023 Sportage is likely to go on sale by early 2022. The Sportage Hybrid will be launched later in the middle of 2022.
2023 Kia Sportage Rivals
When launched, the 2023 Kia Sportage will take on the likes of Ford Escape, Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are some of the most commonly asked questions related to the 2023 Kia Sportage.
When can I buy the 2023 Kia Sportage?
The 2023 Sportage is expected to be available to buy by early 2022.
Does the new Kia Sportage get a 4WD option?
Yes, the 2023 Kia Sportage will be available with optional 4WD. The higher X-Line and X-Pro variants will feature 4WD as standard.
Does the new Kia Sportage have a hybrid variant?
Yes, Kia will also offer a hybrid variant of the Sportage. But the hybrid model will be launched later in 2022.
Does the Kia Sportage come with advanced safety features?
Yes, the 2023 Kia Sportage will be available with advanced safety features.