The 2025 Kia Sportage is set to receive a significant facelift, with a global debut expected in the coming months and an Australian launch slated for 2025. Based on spy photos and insights from the Hyundai Tucson’s recent update, here is what we know so far about the upcoming model.
UPDATE: Shortly after the release of this article, Kia teased the new Sportage in a video posted to YouTube.
Design Updates
The facelifted Sportage will bring a refreshed look, aligning with Kia’s latest design philosophy, ‘opposites united.’ This approach combines sharp, angular elements with smooth, flowing lines to create a more dynamic and modern appearance.
- Front Fascia: Expect the most noticeable changes at the front. Vertical ‘star map’ daytime running lights will replace the current boomerang-shaped lights, giving the SUV a more futuristic and distinct look. The grille is likely to be slightly reshaped, with a more prominent lower intake, aligning it with Kia’s newer models like the EV9.
- Rear Design: Revised LED tail-light graphics will update the look at the back, and the rear bumpers are expected to be more sculpted, adding to the overall sleek and aggressive stance.
- New Wheels: The facelift will include newly designed 19-inch alloy wheels, enhancing the Sportage’s sporty and refined character.
- Alignment with Tucson: The facelift follows the design cues seen in the Hyundai Tucson, which shares the same platform as the Sportage. Given the recent updates to the Tucson, the Sportage is likely to adopt some of the same aesthetic and functional improvements.
Expected Features
Kia aims to keep the Sportage competitive in the mid-size SUV market by enhancing its tech features and interior quality.
- Infotainment: A 12.3-inch touchscreen is expected to be standard across the range, replacing the current 8.0-inch unit in base models. The updated ccNC software will support wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, making connectivity smoother and more user-friendly. Higher variants may offer a fully digital 12.3-inch instrument cluster, replacing the semi-digital 4.2-inch multi-information display in lower grades.
- Kia Connect: The Kia Connect telematics system is set to be a key feature, allowing owners to control various functions remotely via a smartphone app. This includes locking, unlocking, and starting the engine, as well as sending destination inputs to the navigation system. The system also includes automatic emergency calling in case of a collision.
- Driver Assistance Systems: Expect the inclusion of advanced driver assistance features. Intelligent speed-limit assist, already mandatory in the European Union, may be included. This feature uses traffic sign recognition to notify drivers of speed limits and issue audible warnings if exceeded. Other likely enhancements include a column-mounted gear selector, USB-C ports, a head-up display, and improved lane-keeping assist for smoother semi-autonomous highway driving.
- Interior Upgrades: Premium materials and a cleaner, more streamlined dashboard design will likely make their way into the updated model. Kia may also introduce new interior colour options, adding to the customisation possibilities for buyers.
Powertrain Options
While no official announcement has been made regarding changes to the engine line-up, the current powertrains in Australia include:
- 2.0L Non-Turbo Petrol: Produces 115kW and 192Nm, available with a six-speed manual or automatic transmission (front-wheel drive). It serves as the entry-level option, appealing to budget-conscious buyers.
- 1.6L Turbo-Petrol: Delivers 132kW and 265Nm, paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic (all-wheel drive). This variant provides a balance of power and efficiency, suitable for daily commuting and weekend trips.
- 2.0L Turbo-Diesel: Offers 137kW and 416Nm, matched with an eight-speed automatic (all-wheel drive). Known for its strong torque, this engine is ideal for those who require extra towing capacity or drive long distances.
- 1.6L Turbo Petrol-Electric Hybrid: Generates 169kW and 350Nm, coupled with a six-speed automatic (front-wheel drive). It provides a more eco-friendly option without sacrificing too much performance.
The Hyundai Tucson’s recent update included a more powerful version of the 1.6L hybrid with 172kW and 367Nm, along with an all-wheel-drive option. It’s possible the Sportage will adopt this improved system, enhancing the appeal of its hybrid offerings. There is also talk of an 8-speed automatic, a major upgrade over the current 6-speed.
Performance Specs
Kia is likely to maintain the current performance benchmarks, but improvements in software and tuning could enhance efficiency and responsiveness.
- 0-100 km/h:
- GT-Line Hybrid: Approximately 8.2 seconds.
- 1.6L Turbo AWD: Approximately 9.0 seconds.
- Towing and Payload:
- Towing capacity: 1,900 kg (braked) for diesel variants, making it suitable for small caravans and trailers. Petrol and hybrid models have a slightly lower capacity of 1,650 kg.
- Payload: Up to 510 kg, depending on the variant, allowing for reasonable load-carrying for family outings and road trips.
The X-Pro Variant
The X-Pro variant is expected to remain in the facelifted line-up, targeting buyers looking for light off-road capability. This variant offers:
- All-Wheel Drive: Standard AWD ensures better traction on unpaved roads and light trails.
- Off-Road Driving Modes: These modes adjust the vehicle’s throttle response, traction control, and drivetrain settings to handle different terrains like mud, sand, or snow.
- Increased Ground Clearance: Compared to standard models, the X-Pro provides better clearance to navigate uneven terrain, making it a suitable choice for weekend adventurers who want to explore beyond the city.
Safety and ANCAP Rating
The current Kia Sportage holds a 5-star ANCAP safety rating, with high scores in adult and child occupant protection, vulnerable road user safety, and safety assist features. The facelifted model is expected to retain this rating, maintaining Kia’s commitment to safety across the range. Standard safety features include:
- Autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection
- Lane-keeping assist and lane-following assist
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Rear cross-traffic alert
- Adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality
Pricing & Launch
- Expected Price Range: Given the additional standard features and potential powertrain improvements, a slight increase in price is likely. The current range in Australia starts at $32,995 (before on-road costs) for the base S manual and goes up to $55,420 for the GT-Line Hybrid FWD auto.
- Launch Timeline: The updated Sportage is expected to debut globally soon, with Australian availability confirmed for 2025. Kia will likely reveal more details closer to the launch, including official pricing, specifications, and variant options.
