Kia Sportage is too big in Europe! Short body release..The difference between Korea and Korea is
Jun 09, 2025
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Sportage is the overwhelming export number one among Kia models. It has an average monthly sales of more than 40,000 units. It is especially popular in Europe. However, in the European market, since compact vehicles are preferred, a short body model with a reduced wheel base than domestic specifications will also be released. We first met the newly launched Sportage short body in Europe at Auto Express, an overseas automobile media outlet.
A major update to the Sportage, the UK's top-selling SUV, has been released. Since its launch in 2022, the current-generation Kia Sportage has sold more than 124,000 units in the UK, often exceeding the average monthly SUV sales. More than once, it swept the UK's overall sales chart.
The new Sportage is not a complete change to the existing model, but it comes with a variety of electrified power trains that customers expect to prefer. Kia plans to offer only short wheel base models in the European market in the future.
Sportage models in the US and Australian markets, as well as Korea, feature a slightly different D-pillar design as well as a longer wheelbase. Kia launches Sportage in Europe in three trims: Pure, GT-Line, and GT-Line S.
Each trim consists of various electrified power trains consisting of gasoline, hybrid, and plug-in hybrids. Automatic, manual, front wheel and all-wheel drive are all provided.All Sportages feature the same upgrades based on new exterior styles inspired by Kia's unique EV model.
Newly applied vertical LED headlamps and stylish Starmap signature daytime running lights naturally extend to the grill.The GT-line model incorporates stubbier bottom bumper graphics and fog lights.The rear lamp is the same shape as before. It features a new full-LED internal graphics with Starmap signature graphics.
Under the rear lamp, a newly designed bumper attracts attention. The GT-line model once again has a thicker design element.The exterior update concluded with several new color options and a range of 17 to 19-inch wheels.Analysts say the exterior design update has made Sportage on par with the newer and more intense styles of internal combustion engines and EV range.
This phenomenon is more pronounced indoors.Sportage looks quite similar on the outside, but the interior is completely different.Kia has installed a much smoother new dashboard to reflect the opinions of its customers.
The large vent that previously wrapped around the screen housing disappeared, making it more streamlined.As the bezel decreases and the case becomes thinner, the screen becomes smoother and looks like it is equipped with advanced technology. The size and operation method are the same as before.A 12.3-inch center touchscreen is applied to all models. A 12.3-inch digital instrument panel in front of the driver's seat is only installed on GT-Line S models.
The entry and intermediate models are replaced with a 4.3-inch screen and a basic digital instrument panel on both sides.The touchscreen interface has been updated to the latest system. A new function to connect multiple Bluetooth devices has been integrated. This made it possible to run Google Maps or Apple CarPlay on one device and stream music on another device.
Added a new shortcut function that is activated by swiping down from the top of the screen. You can quickly access frequently used features.Kia, like other cars, has also incorporated a new AI-based voice control feature that has improved both the functionality and understanding of voice commands. It can be used from setting complex navigation routes including point of interest information to music recommendations.
High-end models with more technology are equipped with a 10-inch head-up display. You can receive navigation guidance and music information from Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.Below the main touchscreen is the same set of variable touch switches for media or air conditioners. Two identical handles are located on both sides for tactile touch.
In the center of the front seat, a gearbox, a heated steering wheel, and a knob and switch to adjust the seat were placed. Importantly, the surrounding finish has been changed to brushed metal, not black gloss.It prevented the occurrence of scratches or stains at the request of customers.
The steering wheel is also from the latest model. It features a futuristic two-spoke design. The GT-Line model has a white insert that matches the seat trim.Sportage's biggest success in the U.K. was due to a wide range of powertrain options.
All models share a 1.6-liter turbocharger four-cylinder engine by default. The hybrid system differences applied to each model are significant.Entry models include a 48V mild system that powers some of the engine's aids to increase efficiency and extend start-stop capabilities.
Matching with a 6-speed manual transmission or 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission delivers power to all wheels. The highest output is 148 horsepower.The full hybrid model is equipped with a more powerful electric motor, and the output has been upgraded to 235 horsepower, an increase of 28 horsepower compared to the previous one.Combined with front wheel drive 6-speed manual and automatic transmissions. The GT-Line S, which is the highest-end specification, comes with a four-wheel drive system.
Finally, the PHEV power train has undergone the biggest upgrade.The output increased by 42 horsepower to a total of 283 horsepower.Kia has yet to release all technical information, and no improvement has been confirmed for the existing 64km electric range.
This was similar to the average mileage of comparable competitors.Recently, the Volkswagen Tiguan has been improved to drive up to about 123 km in electric mode. , Peugeot and Citroen PHEV models with similar mileage will also be released soon. As a result, short electric mileage could be the Achilles heel of the new Sportage. Moreover, it can be difficult to fully enjoy tax benefits.
The biggest threat is the emergence of new rivals.The cars Kia Sportage will face in 2025 are very different from when it launched three years ago.The new Volkswagen Tiguan has greatly improved hybrid technology. It is completely outpacing Kia Sportage in terms of indoor technology and quality.
The price is likely to be higher than the Sportage, but the difference is not significant considering the installment promotion. Modern Tucson features very similar features to Sportage.
Japanese competitors such as the Toyota Rav4 and the Matsuda CX-5 are also launching new models. For now, however, it is certain that Kia Sportage will maintain a very high share of the UK C segment market. It is questionable how long this situation will last.
Editor Song Moon-cheol mc.song@carguy.kr
This article was translated by Naver AI translator.
