(November 26, 2024) LOS ANGELES  —The 2026 Kia Sportage compact SUV has debuted at the Los Angeles Auto Show with an extensive list of enhancements in design, innovation, technology and convenience. As Kia’s longest running nameplate, the Sportage undergoes its most significant change since the fifth-generation model launched almost three years ago.

The 2026 Sportage delivers more of everything for today’s savvy, adventurous and eco-conscious consumers across three distinct powertrain variants – ICE, Turbo Hybrid (HEV), and Turbo Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) – with an expansive trim range that includes the rugged and capable X-Line and X-Pro Prestige trims.



Exuding the brand’s “Opposites United” design philosophy, the Sportage takes on a more confident look with front and rear design enhancements. Inside, the Sportage brings more technology upgrades than ever, from Kia’s innovative Connected Car Navigation Cockpit (ccNC) with a standard curved 12.3-inch touchscreen display to an all-new available 10-inch head-up display (HUD) that communicates pertinent information including ADAS functions and turn-by-turn directions. There’s also a roster of Digital Key features for remote lock/unlock/start capabilities via compatible smart devices.  



The 2026 Sportage offers something for everyone, with an expansive lineup that includes a new sporty S and capable X-Line trim for the Sportage HEV. Sportage models with the turbo hybrid powertrain also get an uptick in horsepower, while X-Line, X-Pro and all AWD models gain more confidence with standard Terrain Mode (Snow, Mud, Sand).



The robust Sportage ICE lineup includes the LX, EX, SX, SX-Prestige, X-Line, and X-Pro Prestige trims.  The Sportage X-Pro Prestige allows drivers to venture further into nature with off-road ready features. The Sportage HEV comes in LX, S (new), EX, X-Line (new), and SX-Prestige, while the Sportage PHEV comes in X-Line and X-Line Prestige.



Certain Sportage trims are assembled in the U.S., alongside the award-winning Telluride, Sorento, and all-electric EV6 and EV9 at Kia’s manufacturing plant in West Point, Georgia. The 2026 Sportage is expected to arrive in Kia showrooms in Q2 of next year and pricing will be announced closer to its on-sale date.

Enhancements to the exterior of the refreshed 2026 Kia Sportage give it a more angular, dynamic look, making it an attractive option in the crowded compact crossover SUV segment. The new facelift includes larger stacked LED headlights, new amber DRLs, an updated front bumper, and a geometric grille design. Updates to the taillights and rear bumper mirror those up front to complete the new look.



Kia added distinct rugged styling to the X-Line trim to match the adventurous bones of the off-road-ready variant. New alloy wheel designs come in 17-, 18-, and 19-inch sizes. Power-folding outside mirrors are available.

The 2026 Kia Sportage retains its spacious, well-appointed cabin with premium materials and generous rear legroom, storage, and cargo space. Standard dual 12.3-inch panoramic screens display driver instrumentation and surround the newly redesigned steering wheel.

An updated air vent design covers the length of the dashboard. Below is the reconfigured multi-function audio/climate control panel, which can switch between volume settings and the dual climate control system. Kia added new material to the center console and door panel trim to help reduce fingerprints and smudges.