The outgoing Korean SUV has always been an attractive and well proportioned model in the highly competitive crossover market but the 2023 Kia Sportage will come with a bold new design. An X-Pro trim level will also be available for those that like to take the path less travelled.
Kia’s longest-running nameplate is scheduled to go on sale globally in the next few months. The fifth generation of the crossover still hasn’t had any confirmed information about possible powertrains which will include a hybrid and plug-in hybrid derivative; neither of which we may see in South Africa. What we can be certain of is a new 2.5-liter four-cylinder motor that is expected to churn out around 139 kW and couple to an eight-speed automatic gearbox. The power will be delivered to the front-wheels as standard with all-wheel drive as an option for tricky terrain.
Speaking of which, a new lineup of rugged crossovers for the Sportage range include the X-Line and X-Pro trim levels, both come standard with all-wheel drive. The X-Line includes 19-inch rims with a roof rack on raised rails for convenience. Other changes include satin chrome surrounds on the bumpers and gloss black mirror cap details and window surrounds.
The X-Pro is more capable, equipped with 17-inch matte black wheels and B.F. Goodrich all-terrain tires. LED fog lights are mounted on the bumper to illuminate the road ahead while multi-terrain drive modes with normal, sport, smart, and snow settings are at the driver’s disposal.
Sharing the N3 platform with the larger Sorento, the 2023 Kia Sportage for the global market has grown in size to the outgoing model measuring 180mm longer with a wheelbase that has been stretched just under 90mm. While South Africa is expected to get the Euro-spec Sportage which is slightly smaller, it has still grown 30mm longer with 10mm added to the wheelbase over the current model.
Kia South Africa is yet to confirm details on the models that will be offered in our local market with pricing and specs expected closer to a launch date.
