Kia Sportage Facelift
New Rendering with High Accuracy Appears
Expect changes close to the full-change model
The Kia Sportage is competing with Sorento in first and second place in SUV sales in South Korea. Its popularity has not waned even after three years since its launch in May 2021. Its cumulative sales from January to July 2024 were 45,534 units, ranking third overall after the Sorento and Carnival. It is not only number one in its class but is also superior to the Hyundai Santa Fe.
Many consumers eagerly await the new vehicle, set for release in the second half of 2024. Recently, a prototype with its heavy camouflage removed has surfaced, sparking increased excitement. Russian automotive media outlet Kolesa has even created a rendering based on this prototype, giving enthusiasts a more detailed glimpse of what to expect.
The prototype is built on a short-wheelbase platform, showcasing key changes in the front part
The new rendering, revealed by KOLESA, is based on a previously captured prototype of the export model for Europe. Unlike the model for the Korean market, it features a short-wheelbase body, so it stands out with features such as a two-tone color finish in glossy black from the A-pillar to the roof and quarter glass applied inside the second-row doors.
Just like the recently released new K8, the level of change is comparable to that of a full-change model, raising expectations. The grille, headlamps, bumper, bonnet, and front fender molds have all been completely changed. Looking at the bonnet parting line, the central part that protrudes downwards forms part of Kia’s signature design, the tiger nose. The Starmap Signature Lighting is expected to have a sharper shape than the Sorento, and the grill has become large enough to cover more than half of the front.
The rear part has relatively little change
It is mainly focused on details
Only minimal changes are anticipated for the rear of the vehicle. The tail lamp box and tailgate are expected to retain their current design. The internal graphics of the tail lamps will feature the latest family look, including the Star Map signature. The ㄷ-shaped tail lights offer a more refined appearance than the existing model, with the turn signal lights positioned inward to create a more cohesive look.
The lower bumper garnish in the shape of a skid plate is expected to add a solid image by organizing it in a simpler form than before. The new wheel, fully revealed through the prototype, has applied geometric design elements, such as 4 spokes and squares, as befitting the latest Kia model. The license plate location has not changed, but it remains the same.
What is the expected interior? It is likely to be unveiled in November 2024
The interior of the Sportage facelift model has yet to be seen, but we can make some educated guesses based on recent Kia vehicles. The steering wheel is expected to feature a double D-cut rim, with the Kia emblem likely positioned on the right side of the horn cover. The panoramic display will probably be redesigned to a more rectangular shape. Additionally, similar to the EV9 and EV3, it’s highly likely that a separate display for controlling the air conditioning system will be included.
Meanwhile, there’s a lot of buzz about potential changes to the powertrain. The current Sportage model in South Korea offers four powertrain options: a 1.6L gasoline turbo, a hybrid version of that engine, a 2.0L diesel, and an LPG variant. The 1.6L gasoline turbo is expected to feature a torque converter 8-speed automatic transmission, unlike the Tucson, which uses a 7-speed dry DCT. There’s also speculation about whether the diesel engine will remain available. Industry insiders suggest that the new Sportage could be unveiled in November 2024.
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