- Kia’s 2026 Sportage has been revealed, with front-end looks more in line with other Kia models
- More than a facelift: the 7-speed DCT gearbox gives way to an 8-speed automatic trans
- The interior has been revised, too, with extra digital real estate showing up in the cabin
Now in its fifth generation, the Kia Sportage has been with us as a nameplate for decades, and in its current iteration for about three years. For 2026, it will be on the receiving end of several updates, some of which go far beyond the typical nip-and-tuck styling theatre which generally dominates a so-called “mid-cycle refresh.”
That includes a change of gearbox. Kia has decided to swap out the old seven-speed dual-clutch transmission for a more traditional eight-speed automatic when paired with the 1.6L turbo engine, a decision which will likely smooth out the driving experience. No changes are expected to the power output for the gassers, though hybrid options may get a few more horses.
Speaking of increased smoothness, it is suggested a new Infant Driving mode will reduce any jolts from the drivetrain even further, presumably in an effort not to wake Junior on the way home from daycare.
Styling gets a reshuffle, with the new Sportage taking inspiration for its headlights squarely from family members like the new K4 compact and Carnival minivan. That expressive lighting signature is actually the DRLS; look for the headlamps in a stacked formation, bookending the newly widened grille. Bumper intakes also seem larger, though that’s likely for show.
The interior also gets a rethink, with a couple of natty colour schemes being shown in promotional materials. Those screens seem to be of the dual 12.3-inch variety, plus a dashboard hump ahead of the driver which suggests a heads-up display. An upside-down ‘L’-shaped panel houses a number of controls, including the electronic gear selector and physical buttons for gear like the heated/ventilated seats.
This is no small change, as the Sportage regularly counts itself as one of the top three Kia models in terms of deliveries in this country, as shown through the years in the gallery above.
The 2025 Kia Sportage currently starts just over 30 grand for an LX FWD trim, but can skate over $45,000 in top-rung X-Line Limited form in Canada. While this model shown here is technically a reveal for the Korean market, it stands to reason the same changes will be reflected in our market as well. Look for an official North American introduction either late this year or early next.
Sign up for our newsletter Blind-Spot Monitor and follow our social channels on Instagram ,Facebook and X to stay up to date on the latest automotive news, reviews, car culture, and vehicle shopping advice.