The fifth-generation Kia Sportage has arrived in South Africa and according to Kia, this new iteration of the much-loved classic Sportage has been carefully crafted from the ground up to be the ultimate urban SUV. Staying true to the DNA of the Sportage brand, the all-new Sportage has been developed on a new architecture, combining driver-centric design with a premium interior and advanced connectivity tech.
Taking a closer look
The exterior of the all-new Sportage dramatically sets the tone for the next generation in the Sportage family. The SUV boasts a dynamic and assertive road presence with clean lines and a refined body. From the front, the all-new Sportage showcases a black Tiger Nose grille stretching across the width of the face leading to boomerang-shaped LED DRLs (daytime running lamps), which in turn create solid boundary lines for the striking Matrix LED head lamps.
Representing a first for the Sportage range, a black roof – a different colour paint option to the vehicle’s body – is now available with the new model, helping to accentuate the sporting profile and highlight the architecturally dynamic C-pillar. The vehicle maintains a strong road presence at the rear with a muscular swooping fastback design that flows into the rear lamps, which have been crafted to give the impression that they cut into the body with fine precision. The razor rear lamps are connected by a slim horizontal design, giving the all-new Sportage a wide impression from the back.
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Depending on spec and model, new Sportage rides on 17-inch, 18-inch or range-topping 19inch wheels, with a choice of seven different alloy designs, colours and finishes.
What’s inside?
According to Kia, the interior of the all-new Sportage was designed with both the driver and passengers in mind. Clever use of space means that everyone inside Sportage can benefit from generous headroom and legroom. The SUV also sets the benchmark in luggage capacity, underscoring its everyday family-friendly practicality and usability. The all-new Sportage offers 1,050 mm legroom for second-row passengers and 1,000 mm headroom, while luggage capacity is 637 litres (VDA). To maximize convenience, the rear seats can fold down with the simple press of a button, allowing for a flat cargo space to be created seamlessly and quickly.
At the centre of the all-new Sportage’s modern cabin sits an integrated curved display with a slim touchscreen pad. The curved display sweeps across the front of the interior, giving the cockpit dramatic width and depth. The high-tech 12-inch touchscreen and advanced integrated controller act as the nerve centre for driver and passenger connectivity, functionality and usability needs.
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An ergonomic centre console has been optimally positioned for the driver and front passenger, providing storage, operating system configuration, cupholders and soft-touch switches, the latter sitting on a raised profile alongside the shift-by-wire transmission dial. A smartphone charging bay offers high-speed wireless charging.
Fully immersive, in-car surround sound is delivered to the occupants of the all-new Sportage via a Harman Kardon premium sound system.
Drivers can choose between the X-Line Sportage and the GT-Line model. The X-Line Sportage features a lugged bumper, side sill and curved roof rack. On the inside, a signature sage green colour is used, with bold quilting and black metal wood further bringing to life the model’s hardy persona. The GT-Line model, has been designed to take on a more urban crossover SUV form with standout body colours that are vivid and spirited. The interior plays off strong contrasts between black and white, giving the GT-Line model a lively sporty environment.
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Behind the wheel
From launch, a high-tech 1.6-litre TGDI powertrain will be offered in the all-new Sportage line-up, mated to a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (7DCT), while a 6-speed manual transmission is also available. Also included in the launch line-up is a new and highly efficient R2.0-liter diesel engine featuring an advanced variable geometry turbocharger. The new R2.0-liter diesel engine comes with an extensively re-engineered 8-speed automatic transmission.
From a safety standpoint, the Kia Sportage 2021 also offers passive and active high-tech safety systems – including Kia’s world-renowned comprehensive suite of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS).
To create a dynamic, engaging, and optimal driving experience, the all-new Sportage débuts numerous highly innovative technology breakthroughs, including Kia’s E-Handling system that enhances the dynamic performance of the vehicle and improves agility and stability. A new-generation Electric Control Suspension (ESC) provides optimum comfort and superior safety levels at all times thanks to its continuous damping control in real-time.
A Terrain Mode gives all-new Sportage outstanding ride capabilities in more challenging conditions such as snow, mud and sand, allowing owners to pursue more adventurous leisure activities.
Kia says advanced powertrains in the new Sportage make it a highly economical, low-emissions vehicle with smooth and highly responsive power delivery, resulting in an SUV that is energetic, sporty and fun-to-drive.
The all-new Sportage is the first Kia vehicle to be available in long-wheelbase and shortwheelbase model variants depending on the region.
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