The Kia Sportage crossover was updated for most global markets last fall, but the European version stands apart. After all, Kia is releasing a shortened version with a 2680 mm wheelbase (instead of 2755 mm) and a reduced rear overhang specifically for the Old World. This Euro-Sportage has undergone a planned restyling only now.
The appearance of the crossover for Europe has been changed according to the patterns of the global version. Instead of boomerang running lights and headlights of a similar shape, there is new lighting technology, which has a stricter vertical orientation. A different radiator grille, front and rear bumper appeared. The lights on the stern retained their shape, but their internal filling and pattern have changed. Wheels with a diameter of 17 to 19 inches with a new design are offered to choose from, and the GT Line package with a more aggressive body kit has been retained. After the update, the length of the crossover has grown from 4515 to 4540 mm, although the global model is much larger (4685 mm).
The updated crossover’s front panel has lost the “ears” of the ventilation deflectors on the sides of the screens. The air ducts are arranged in a single row, and two displays (12.3 inches each) are installed in a single rectangular housing. The WebOS-based media system supports the installation of third-party applications, such as streaming services or mobile games, as well as wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto protocols. A 10-inch projection screen and an advanced Harman Kardon audio system are optionally available. A new two-spoke steering wheel has appeared. The trim is widely used Dinamica microfiber from Asahi Kasei, which is 75% made from recycled plastic waste. The standard trunk volume is 587 liters, and with the rear row backrests folded down – 1,776 liters.
The European Sportage still has a rich set of power units. The 1.6 petrol turbo engine (150 or 180 hp) is combined with a six-speed manual or a seven-speed preselective robot, and in the second case, you can order all-wheel drive. The 1.6 CRDi turbodiesel has lost its basic 115 hp version and is now offered only in a 136 hp version with a starter generator. The gearboxes are the same, but the drive is only front-wheel drive. The hybrids retained the 1.6 petrol turbo engine and a six-speed automatic with a built-in electric motor, but the peak output has become higher. The base hybrid’s power increased from 230 to 239 hp, and the plug-in hybrid’s from 265 to 288 hp. The most powerful socket modification can be ordered with front-wheel drive for the first time, since previously it was strictly all-wheel drive.
Short-wheelbase Kia Sportage crossovers are manufactured in Slovakia, and the plant will switch to production of updated cars in the near future. The first commercial cars will appear in European dealerships in the third quarter.
