The new spy shots of the upcoming 2022 Kia Sportage just emerged online. Fifth-generation SUV has been caught testing at the Nurburgring, wearing a heavy disguise.
Interestingly, we just got some of the information, and forthcoming Sportage will share mechanicals with the recently-revealed Hyundai Tucson. That means we could see the plug-in hybrid tech as one of the powertrain options.
2022 Kia Sportage Exterior
The 2022 Kia Sportage is the fifth edition of the popular SUV. At first glance, we can see that the Korean automaker redesigned this family crossover, and make it more competitive. Generally, there are many models in the same class, and the closest ones are Volkswagen Tiguan and Peugeot 3008. In terms of design, the new Kia Sportage shares much mechanical makeup with the Tucson model from the parent brand Hyundai.
Also, similarity will extend to the overall dimensions. Despite the disguise, we managed to see some of the changes. The new Sportage wears Kia’s signature “tiger nose” grille, and the LED highlights, that are formatting a sportier look than we saw before. However, details towards the rear of this SUV reveals some of the cues from the famous Telluride, including a similar taillight and bumper.
Interior Changes and Updates
Right now, we don’t have much information regarding the interior of the captured 2022 Kia Sportage. Like before, the buyers can expect the same layout with more upscale materials. The cabin will be for sure upgrades with many techs and comfortable seats.
The current Sportage offers 30.7 cubic feet of luggage space behind the rear seats, which is excellent. Moreover, that can be expanded to 60.1 cubic feet when they’re folded down. However, compared to models like Honda CR-V or Toyota RAV4, the Sportage loses battle in this department.
Trim Levels and Equipment
Choosing the entry-level LX trim, buyers can expect an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, cloth upholstery, air conditioning, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, Bluetooth, USB port, and more. This trim also includes forward-collision mitigation, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assistance, and automatic high beams.
The next-up S trim will add a leather-wrapped steering wheel and simulated leather upholstery, power-folding side mirrors, and roof rails. Also, electronic parking brake and blind-spot monitoring come with this level.
The EX trim is the most recommended trim featuring a powered tailgate, 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, and heated front seats. The last and the most expensive is the SX Turbo. This model sports LED interior lighting, leather seating, sporty stainless steel pedals, front/rear parking sensors, and a 320-watt Harman Kardon audio system.
2022 Kia Sportage Powertrain Specs
According to many reports, the forthcoming 2022 Kia Sportage will probably use the same powertrains as the latest Tucson. The Hyundai features a 48-volt mild-hybrid setup on both petrol and diesel engines.
The hybrid combines a 1.6 engine with a 59 hp electric motor, while the plug-in model uses the same combustion engine with a more massive motor and excellent battery capacity. Thanks to that, the PHEV version should provide a great mileage on the electric mode.
Release Date and Price
The sales of 2022 Kia Sportage will probably start after the Tucson hit the showrooms. So, expect this model to be launch sometime in 2021. Most likely, at the end of the year.
As for the pricing, we cannot right now discus about it, consider that this model is still in the early phase of production. In the same class are many popular models, and the main ones are Volkswagen Tiguan and Peugeot 3008.
Source: autoexpress.com