Kia starts detailing new Sportage specs, here Oct

KIA Australia has started detailing its new-generation Sportage line-up in the lead-up to its arrival Down Under in October, the range consisting of 11 variants spread across four trim levels – all of which will be offered here from launch.

Opening the range will be the S trim, available with the choice of either a 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine (115kW/192Nm) and front-wheel drive or a 2.0-litre turbo diesel (137kW/417Nm) with all-wheel drive.

While the base petrol will come with the option of a six-speed manual or automatic transmission, the diesel will be paired exclusively to an eight-speed automatic.

Standard equipment highlights on the S variants include 17-inch alloy wheels, an 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system, 4.2-inch multi-function driver’s display, digital radio, a six-speaker sound system, wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay, multi-device Bluetooth connectivity, cloth seats, LED headlights daytime running lights and tail-lights, a full-size spare wheel and a leather steering wheel.

Above the S’ will be the SX grade which adds a bigger 12.3-inch infotainment screen with satellite navigation, powered lumbar support for the driver, rain sensing wipers, dual zone climate control, automatic window defogging, express front windows, a leather gear selector and remote-folding second row, but the smartphone mirroring takes a step backwards in being wired rather than wireless.

For those chasing something a bit more premium-feeling than cloth upholstery, the SX+ will throw artificial leather into the mix as well as front seat heating and power adjustment for the driver, an eight-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, power tailgate, self-dimming rearview mirror, keyless entry with push-button start, paddle shifters and bigger 19-inch alloys.

The SX+ will also be the tipping point in terms of mechanicals as it will be available with a new turbocharged 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine good for 132kW and 265Nm.

Drive will be channelled to all four wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic.

The naturally aspirated petrol and turbo-diesel mills will also be available, though the former forgoes its six-speed manual option this high up the tree.

Cresting the Sportage line-up will again be the GT-Line trim, which not only adds more gear again, but injects some extra sportiness into the equation through its more aggressive body kit and unique 19-inch alloys.

Engine choice should be slightly easier for GT-Line customers given the front-drive petrol isn’t available, just leaving the all-paw turbo duo.

The GT-Line will also debut Kia’s new 24.6-inch curved interface – two sweeping 12.3-inch screens end-to-end – first seen on the EV6, comprising the digital cockpit and infotainment system.

Other standard kit highlights over the SX+ include leather seats with suede uppers – heated and ventilated at the front with memory function for the driver – as well as dual LED headlights, rotary gear selector, wireless phone charging, ambient lighting, panoramic sunroof, LED interior lights, alloy sports pedals and remote smart park assist for the diesel.

As usual for an all-new model, the MY22 Sportage is loaded with all the latest safety gear including a front centre airbag lane follow assist, lane-keep assist, multi-collision brake, autonomous emergency braking – with car, pedestrian, cyclist and junction detection – as well as intelligent speed limit assist, tyre pressure monitoring, rear parking sensors and a reversing camera.

Manual variants miss out on otherwise standard blind-spot collision assist, rear cross traffic collision assist and radar cruise control.

Kia Australia chief operating officer Damien Meredith said the all-new Sportage is just the latest chapter in the brand’s evolving design language.

“Sportage has always had a knack of reinventing itself more than any other Kia model and the new fifth-generation, with its unique boomerang-shaped LEDs, razor rear lamps and swooping curved display is no different,” he said.

“The all-new Sportage promises to be a substantial evolution over the outgoing Sportage and is a true reflection of where not only the nameplate, but the Kia brand is heading.”

More than just styling though Kia Australia’s ride and handling engineer, Graeme Gambold, has assured both the media and consumers that the new Sportage will also move the game on in terms of the driving experience.

“While it’s been a challenge due to COVID complications and taken a little longer than usual, NQ5 is sporty, youthful, fun to drive, yet comfortable and capable of soaking up even the harshest of road conditions,” he said.

“While it’s a high bar, I’m confident it will be an even better ride than its predecessor.”