The new generation of Kia’s compact crossover is here. This is the fifth generation of the nameplate and it brings all kinds of improvements compared to the previous generation. First of all, it rides on a completely new platform, which brings benefits in various aspects. It is bigger and way more spacious than before, while there is also a new powertrain lineup, which includes two hybrid versions as well. The new model had a premiere last October and it is about to hit the market in the following months, as the 2023 Kia Sportage.
The new model will have a pretty big task to successfully compete in the industry’s most demanding segment. Traditionally, its main competitors should be models like Mazda CX-5, Ford Escape and similar crossovers, apart from class leaders like Rav4 and CR-V. It will have a lot of trumps to offer in this battle, which makes it one of the most versatile models in the class.
2023 Kia Sportage Design
This redesign has brought a lot of new things. First of all, there is a completely new platform, which is once again shared with Tucson. Hyundai’s crossover is already on the market and we can say it has brought a notable improvement regarding ride quality, especially in terms of smoothness and comfort. Therefore, we are pretty sure that the 2023 Kia Sportage will go in the same direction.
Another big change is the size. The new generation is way bigger than before. It gains more than 7 inches in total length, while the wheelbase is almost 3.5 inches longer than before. All this means that you may count on much more space on the inside, both in terms of passenger and cargo room.
Finally, there is the matter of styling, which is probably the most radical change. The previous generation was characterized by pretty smooth lines and lots of rounded shapes, especially at the front. The new 2023 Kia Sportage brings a radically different approach. The front end utilizes super-sharp, alien-looking headlights, along with a more prominent grille, more aggressive bumper etc. The rear end is designed in a similar fashion, while the whole body looks bolder and more aggressive.
Interior
If you look at all the things we’ve mentioned so far, you may conclude that this redesign was pretty comprehensive. You are right, as the cabin also looks significantly different than before, in a much better way, of course. The first thing you’ll notice is a completely new dashboard design, which combines classic lines with a full pack of tech features. Massive infotainment and instrument cluster screens look pretty good in a combination with fine materials and the main impression is that the cabin looks very elegant.
As we’ve just mentioned, the new generation features significantly bigger dimensions and, of course, this translates into more interior space as well. The longer wheelbase is highly beneficial in terms of legroom. It goes all-away up to 41.3 inches in the second row. That’s more legroom than you get from many mid-size SUVs, for comparison. The cargo area is as generous. You may count on about 39.5 cubic feet.
Features
As we’ve already mentioned, this SUV will come fully loaded with all kinds of standard features. Base models will probably come with smaller units, while a massive 12.3-inch infotainment screen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster will be available. Base models should come standard with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, as well as with other connectivity features, as well as with safety features like lane following assist, parking sensors etc. The list of options will be pretty long as well and it will include things like a 360-degree surround-view monitor with a 3D view for the first time in Sportage. The list of upgrades will also include wireless charging, Wi-Fi hotspot, premium audio system etc.
2023 Kia Sportage Engines
At this point, we know that the initial model will come in two variants when it comes to the powertrain. Base versions will come with a familiar 2.5-liter naturally-aspirated four-cylinder gasoline engine, which puts out 187 horsepower. The initial version will also come with a hybrid powertrain on the offer. That model will combine a 1.6-liter turbo-four with a 44-kW electric motor and 1.49-kWh battery, for a total output of 226 horsepower.
We presume that the plug-in hybrid version will come later. This one is also based on a 1.6-liter turbo-four, but comes with a more capable electric motor. So, the max output should go around 261 horsepower. Also, this version would come with a much bigger 13.8-kWh battery pack, which should ensure more than 30 miles of the all-electric range.
2023 Kia Sportage Release Date and Price
We expect that the 2023 Kia Sportage will hit the market in the next few months, with a starting price of around 26.000 dollars.
As of my knowledge cutoff date (2021-09), the starting price of the 2023 Kia Sportage in the United States was around $24,090 for the base LX model. The higher-end models such as the EX and SX Turbo had starting prices of around $26,490 and $35,150, respectively. However, please note that prices can vary based on location, dealership, and other factors, so you may want to check with local dealerships for current pricing information.
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