The refreshed 2026 Kia Sportage features bold styling updates and may introduce a new engine option for the North American market.
The 2026 Kia Sportage is gearing up for a refreshed look and possible new engine options, following its reveal in Korea. Since its 2023 debut, the current Sportage has been a top choice among small SUV buyers, praised for its fuel efficiency, roomy interior, competitive pricing, and appealing design. Ranked second in our Compact SUV buyer’s guide, it continues to be a favorite in its segment. Though we anticipated a mid-cycle refresh a year from now, the new model might arrive sooner than expected.
One of the standout changes is in exterior styling. The front and rear designs are completely updated, aligning with Kia’s latest design language, similar to what’s seen on the EV9. This includes vertical headlights and a more geometric shape for the rear taillights, giving the Sportage a more modern, dynamic look.
The interior has also received notable updates. The dashboard now features a double display screen, echoing the layout seen in Hyundai models like the Tucson and the Ioniq series. This change adds a futuristic touch to the cabin, enhancing the overall driving experience.
Under the hood, the familiar 1.6-liter turbocharged hybrid engine will remain. However, the non-hybrid 2.5-liter engine is missing from the Korean lineup, replaced by a 2.0-liter engine. It’s possible the U.S. version could get the same 2.0-liter engine used in the 2025 Kia K4 or retain the 2.5-liter engine exclusively for the North American market.
Stay tuned as more details become available.
