- Kia teases refreshed Sportage with new headlights, taillights, and subtle exterior design updates
- The interior will likely feature curved displays and tech upgrades from electric models like EV3
- Hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains are expected to continue unchanged, or with minimal revisions
Kia late October teased the refresh for its popular Sportage SUV, which is expected to debut at the Los Angeles motor show next month. Per videos uploaded to its YouTube channel, it seems the updated 2026 model features new headlight and taillight designs that align with the styling cues from Kia’s more recent models, such as the Sorento and EV9.
The front end showcases new daytime running lights that extend outward and integrate with a revised bumper, while the grille has been subtly tweaked. At the rear, the Sportage receives redesigned taillights with a new pattern and potentially a new rear bumper. Apart from these updates, the overall exterior design remains largely unchanged, based on the profile image.
Inside, the Sportage is expected to adopt a technology-focused layout, which may include a new curved central display and a two-spoke steering wheel, similar to the arrangements found in upcoming models like the EV3. The center console and switchgear might also see revisions, along with new trim and upholstery options.
Under the hood, the Sportage should continue with its current range of gasoline engines and hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains, with minimal, if any, changes. The mid-cycle refresh will maintain the same platform shared with the Hyundai Tucson.
The current generation of Sportage first bowed in 2021, and this updated Sportage is expected to go on sale in early 2025 in Europe, with the North American version likely to follow shortly after. In markets like Canada, the new SUV should launch as a 2026 model, due to a 2025-model-year version already being available.
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