## Bold New Kia Sportage Facelift Unveiled on Nurburgring
Kia’s best-selling mid-size SUV, the Sportage, is set to receive a bold facelift for the upcoming year. As the second best-selling car in the UK so far in the year, Kia is determined to keep the Sportage competitive in the family SUV segment, prompting this fresh new look.
Earlier this year, the updated Kia Sportage was spotted undergoing testing on the roads near Germany’s renowned Nurburgring. However, our spy photographers recently captured it in action on the race track itself, revealing a more refined design with minimal camouflage.
### A Revamped Exterior Design
The latest images showcase a heavily revised front end on the new Sportage, featuring a new interpretation of Kia’s iconic ‘tiger nose’ grille. This revamped grille is more upright and wider compared to the outgoing model, complemented by large vertical headlight units and a reshaped bumper. The distinctive boomerang-like daytime-running lights of the current model have been replaced with the ‘Star Map’ lightning design, first introduced in Kia’s electric flagship, the EV9. This unique ultra-thin and angular lighting design can also be found in other Kia models like the EV3, the facelifted Sorento, and the Picanto city car.
Moving down the side of the Sportage, observers can spot new diamond-cut alloy wheels resembling those on the EV3. The tail-lights have also received a fresh design, while the rear bumper likely received some tweaks, although specifics remain undisclosed.
### Interior Upgrades and Technology
While the interior of the new Sportage has yet to be revealed, expectations are high for significant improvements. It is anticipated that every model will feature dual 12.3-inch displays, a notable upgrade from the smaller 4.2-inch driver’s display in lower-spec versions. This enhancement mirrors the updates seen in the Sportage’s sister car, the Hyundai Tucson, during its recent facelift. Additionally, the touch-sensitive control panel, a signature feature in Kia’s current range for climate controls and shortcut buttons, is expected to remain a fixture. This feature is also present in models like the EV6 and new Sorento, ensuring a seamless experience for drivers.
### Powertrain Options
In terms of powertrains, the new Sportage is likely to offer a lineup similar to its predecessor. Expectations include mild-hybrid, full-hybrid petrol, and a range-topping plug-in hybrid variants, all utilizing a 1.6-liter four-cylinder petrol engine. These options provide a blend of efficiency and performance suitable for diverse driving preferences.
The official unveiling of the new Kia Sportage is scheduled for later in the year, with anticipated availability in 2025. While the starting price is expected to increase from the current model’s entry point of £29,390, the enhancements in design, technology, and performance are poised to justify the investment for prospective buyers.
As Ellis, our dedicated news reporter covering the latest developments in the automotive industry, continues to monitor the unveiling of the new Kia Sportage, stay tuned for more updates on this exciting facelift. With his expertise and passion for all things motoring, Ellis ensures our readers are informed and engaged with the latest trends and innovations in the world of automobiles.
### Conclusion
In conclusion, the forthcoming facelift of the Kia Sportage promises to elevate this popular mid-size SUV to new heights in terms of design, technology, and performance. With bold exterior updates, enhanced interior features, and a diverse range of powertrain options, the Sportage is poised to maintain its position as a top contender in the competitive family SUV segment. Keep an eye out for the official unveiling of the new Sportage and prepare for an exciting journey ahead with Kia’s iconic mid-size SUV.