2020 Kia Sportage UK Version

The Kia Sportage gained a range of enhancements in 2018 to cement its position as the brand’s best-selling model in Europe. The Sportage mated an updated exterior and interior design with new safety and infotainment technologies, as well as efficient new powertrains complying with future emissions standards. Upgrades for 2020 include the addition of a new ‘3’ trim level, and the departure of the ‘4’ specification cars. 

The car’s advanced EcoDynamics+ 48-volt diesel mild-hybrid powertrain was the first mild hybrid to be launched as part of Kia’s global powertrain electrification strategy. With this development, Kia became the first manufacturer to offer hybrid, plug-in hybrid, battery-electric and 48-volt mild-hybrid technology across its model line-up. Kia announced in 2020 that the company will offer 11 fully electric vehicles by 2025.

More than 109,838 examples of the Sportage were purchased by European customers in 2019, representing an over 20 per cent of the brand’s total European sales. In the UK market, over 34,500 buyers chose the Sportage last year. The five-millionth Sportage was built in March 2018, three months into the car’s 25th year on sale, following its introduction in 1993. The Sportage for Europe is produced at Kia’s manufacturing facility in Žilina, Slovakia.

An evolution of Kia design

The original design of the fourth generation Sportage was led by Kia’s European design studio in Frankfurt, Germany, with input from the company’s design centres in Namyang, Korea and Irvine, California. The three studios modernised the look of the Sportage in 2018, which featured a range of updates to its sporty exterior design. Changes extended to ‘GT-Line’ models, which feature a series of unique upgrades compared to other trim grades.

The redesigned front bumper with new fog lamp housings, and new gloss black or bright chrome inserts leading from the fog lamps into the lower air intake. The Sportage is available with an evolved version of its ‘tiger-nose’ grille, with gloss black or matt black grille. Full-LED headlamps with four-point LED daytime running lights and redesigned fog lamps also provide maximum visibility and enhance the SUV’s light signature for a more modern appearance. Silver painted front and rear skid plates are fitted to ‘3’, ‘GT-Line’ and ‘GT-Line S’ models.

At the rear, the slim combination lamps retain their horizontal shape, with the revised design featuring a new C-shaped LED light signature. The reversing lamp is integrated into the new rear bumper with longer reflectors positioned below and is now finished with a flash of chrome across its base.

In profile, the model facelifted in 2018 is available with 17- and 19-inch alloy wheel designs, and some versions have the sill trim finished in chrome. Five paint colours were added to the Sportage, including new shades of silver, grey, blue, and copper.

Changes to ‘GT-Line’ included a new design gloss black radiator grille, gloss black and silver skid plates, and dark chrome inserts on the front bumper and side sills. The unique 19-inch alloy wheels of the ‘GT-Line’ were redesigned, and all models are fitted with a dual exhaust rear valance and revised ‘ice cube’ LED fog lamp designs.

A drag co-efficient of 0.33 Cd remains unchanged following the updates to the SUV’s exterior design. While its length increases by 5mm, dimensions and profile remain largely the same (4,485mm long, 1,855mm wide, 1,635mm tall, with a 2,670mm wheelbase). The ‘GT-Line’ model is 10mm longer, at 4,495mm, due to its unique bumper design.

While the layout of the cabin is retained, a series of minor upgrades further engender a sense of modernity. The upgraded model is equipped with a new steering wheel and revised driver instrument cluster, while ‘GT-Line’ models are available with new black leather seat trim with red accents. The design of the ventilation and air conditioning controls at the centre of the dashboard have also been revised, with new bezels around the dials adding further clarity to the dashboard layout.

You can find more visual details of the 2020 Kia Sportage UK Version gallery by scrolling up.

2020 Kia Sportage UK Version Front View 3/4

Updated powertrains, all meeting Euro 6d Temp emissions regulations

The line-up of petrol engines remains the same in the upgraded Sportage, though with minor modifications to emissions, with buyers able to choose between two powerplants. Both petrol engines are direct-injection (GDi) 1.6-litre units from Kia’s Gamma and are now fitted with new particulate filters to further reduce harmful emissions, ensuring full compliance with the Euro 6d Temp emissions standard. The naturally aspirated 130bhp 1.6-litre GDi engine offers a torque output of 161Nm, and CO₂ emissions from 177g/km.

In the Sportage, the T-GDi (Turbocharged Gasoline Direct injection) engine develops 174bhp at 5,500rpm, while maximum torque is 265Nm from 1,500rpm to 4,500rpm. The result is instantaneous response to throttle inputs and rapid acceleration without interruption. It was developed entirely in-house by Kia engineers at the Namyang research and development centre in Korea, with input from Kia’s European technical centre in Frankfurt. It accelerates the Sportage from 0-60mph in 8.9 seconds (2WD manual) or an even faster 8.8 seconds with the AWD 7DCT. For the 1.6 T-GDi engine, CO₂ emissions are from 183g/km, with fuel economy up to 34.9mpg (combined). Sportage models equipped with the T-GDi engine are available with either front- or all-wheel drive, and a seven-speed Dual-Clutch Transmission (DCT) on all-wheel drive models.

EcoDynamics+ delivers Kia’s first mild hybrid diesel powertrain

The Sportage offers a 134bhp 1.6-litre diesel engine featuring Kia’s ‘EcoDynamics+’ mild-hybrid powertrain. EcoDynamics+ has been engineered to deliver greater efficiency from internal combustion engines on the road, by using electric power delivered and recuperated seamlessly. In the Sportage, the system supplements acceleration with power from a compact 0.44 kWh 48-volt lithium-ion battery and extends engine ‘off time’ with a new Mild-Hybrid Starter-Generator (MHSG) unit. The MHSG is connected by belt to the engine’s crankshaft, and switches seamlessly between ‘motor’ and ‘generator’ modes.

In ‘motor’ mode the battery is discharged under acceleration, providing up power assistance to the engine, to reduce engine load and emissions. Under deceleration – when braking, or coasting towards a junction or downhill – the MHSG switches to ‘generator’ mode, recuperating energy from the crankshaft to recharge the battery on-the-go. An advanced Electronic Control Unit (ECU) calculates the most efficient use of available energy and adjusts accordingly, taking into account the amount of charge remaining in the car’s batteries.

The battery and MHSG also support a new ‘Moving Stop & Start’ function. If the battery has sufficient charge, the combustion engine turns off automatically during in-gear deceleration and braking. The MHSG seamlessly re-ignites the engine when the driver presses the throttle pedal.

The compact nature of the mild-hybrid powertrain made it relatively straightforward to integrate into the Sportage’s existing architecture. The 48-volt battery is located beneath the boot floor, minimising the impact on practicality. Because the MHSG integrates directly with the engine, driving the crankshaft via a belt, there was little need to repackage the engine bay.

Equipped with Kia’s Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) active emissions control technology, the EcoDynamics+ powertrain can reduce CO₂ emissions by up to four per cent on the Worldwide-harmonised Light vehicles Test Procedure (WLTP).

You can find more visual details of the 2020 Kia Sportage UK Version gallery by scrolling up.

2020 Kia Sportage UK Version Rear View

All-new ‘U3’ diesel engine

The Sportage’s previous 1.7-litre CRDi (Common-Rail Direct injection) diesel engine has been replaced with Kia’s efficient 1.6-litre ‘U3’ CRDi engine that is paired to a 48-volt mild hybrid system on all versions. The new 1.6-litre diesel engine produces 134bhp, with emissions rated from 141g/km. Driving the front wheels via six-speed manual transmission as standard, the 134bhp models are also available with all-wheel drive and a seven-speed Dual-Clutch Transmission (DCT). The ‘U3’ engine features SCR active emissions control technology to regulate NOx and diesel particulate matter.

Comfort built in as standard

The Kia Sportage rides on fully independent front and rear suspension, carried over unchanged for the updated 2018 model. Delivering a comfortable ride and superior damping over poor road surfaces, the chassis is nevertheless tuned to offer intuitive and engaging handling. ‘GT-Line’ models feature their own specially-tuned suspension characteristics, endowing the Sportage with sharper, more athletic handling and a slightly firmer ride – crucially, without compromising the SUV’s fundamental comfort and stability. The suspension characteristics for the Sportage ‘GT-Line’ were tested and fine-tuned on a variety of European roads, with European drivers in mind.

The fourth generation Sportage is available as standard with Kia’s ‘R-MDPS’ Rack-mounted electric Motor-Driven Power Steering. The R-MDPS system delivers quick responses and enhanced steering feel, placing the Sportage among the most agile models in the compact SUV class. The Sportage is fitted as standard with a column-mounted power steering system, which delivers linear responses to driver inputs and maximum stability and confidence at the wheel.

The Sportage is equipped with 305mm ventilated disc brakes at the front and 302mm solid disc brakes at the rear.

You can find more visual details of the 2020 Kia Sportage UK Version gallery by scrolling up.

Cutting-edge safety systems

A number of advanced driver assistance systems are offered on the Sportage, all designed to minimise the possibility of an accident. In certain models these complement the comprehensive active and passive safety features fitted to every version. As a result of the measures taken first to prevent accidents and then to mitigate against the effects of them if they are unavoidable, the Sportage has earned a five-star safety rating from Euro NCAP. The Sportage was commended for its ability to protect passengers of all statures in all seats, faring especially well in a side-on impact with a pole, and it scored 71 per cent for its active safety assist technologies.

All models have Lane Keep Assist System (LKAS) to alert a tired driver who may be about to stray into the path of a vehicle approaching from behind; High Beam Assist (HBA) to switch between full and dipped beam automatically when there are other vehicles in their vicinity on unlit roads; and Speed Limit Information Function (SLIF) within the instrument cluster.

Every version has a reversing camera integrated into the 8-inch touchscreen, along with reversing sensors. Front parking sensors are included on ‘3’, ‘GT-Line’ and ‘GT-Line S’ versions and a 360-degree Around View Monitor delivers a helicopter-style view from above the vehicle to aid manoeuvring, and is fitted to all ‘GT-Line S’ models.

All Sportage models have Anti-Lock Brakes (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BAS), so that the car comes to rest in the shortest possible distance in an emergency, and with maximum retardation, regardless of the pressure applied to the pedal by the driver. Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and Vehicle Stability Management (VSM) prevent the car from skidding in corners or when accelerating on surfaces with different levels of grip between left and right. Hill-start Assist holds the car for two seconds when setting off on inclines to prevent it rolling backwards.

You can find more visual details of the 2020 Kia Sportage UK Version gallery by scrolling up.

2020 Kia Sportage UK Version Interior

Downhill Brake Control limits the car’s speed when travelling down steep or slippery off-road inclines, preventing the need for the driver to cover the brake pedal and risk losing traction. It maintains a steady speed of 5mph. And all versions have Trailer Stability Assist, which uses the ABS, ESC and VSM systems to counter-act the possibility of a caravan or trailer snaking in high winds or when the Sportage is being driven at too high a speed.

Cruise control with a speed limiter is available on all versions, with an advanced adaptive cruise control system with stop and go fitted to top-flight ‘GT-Line S’ models. Emergency Stop Signalling flashes the high-level brake light in an emergency stop to warn the drivers of following vehicles, and a Tyre Pressure Monitoring system (TPMS) ensures the driver is given advance notice of a loss of pressure long before it could lead to sudden deflation.

There are six airbags (twin front, front side and side curtain) as standard. Front seat-belt pre-tensioners reduce the forces on the wearer’s chest in a collision, and ISOFIX top tethers and anchors are fitted to allow child seats to be mounted. A passenger airbag cut-off switch is standard to permit a rear-facing child seat to be carried in the front of the car. Speed-sensing automatic door locks ensure the security of all passengers. They are automatically disabled in the event of an accident.

The body shell of the Sportage is made up of 51 per cent Advanced High-strength Steel, which affords greater protection by better withstanding impacts and dissipating any crash energy through carefully designed load paths away from the passenger cell.

Tech giants

The upgraded Sportage adopts a series of Kia’s latest advanced driving assistance and infotainment systems, building on its reputation for high occupant safety and high-tech convenience.

The latest driver assist technologies available in the Sportage include Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop and Go, an Around View Monitor for easier parking manoeuvres, and Driver Attention Warning (DAW), to combat fatigue and inattentiveness at the wheel. Sportage buyers have access to a wide array of existing driver assist systems. These include Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA) with pedestrian detection on ‘GT Line S’ models and Blind-Spot Collision Warning (BCW) for ‘3’ and ‘GT-Line S’ models, while Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS), High Beam Assist (HBA) and Speed Limit Information Function (SLIF) are fitted to all versions of the Sportage.

Every Sportage is equipped as standard with Kia’s Vehicle Stability Management (VSM), which maximises stability when braking and cornering by controlling the car’s Electronic Stability Control (ESC) if it detects a loss of traction. The Sportage is also fitted with driver and front passenger airbags, first-row side airbags, and first- and second-row curtain airbags.

The infotainment systems in the Sportage have been upgraded on the Sportage. A ‘frameless’ 8.0-inch system with satellite navigation system is fitted to every model and includes Kia’s Connected Services powered by TomTom® as standard, offering a wide range of driving-oriented information. Connectivity features include live traffic updates, speed camera locations and alerts, local search, and weather forecasts, depending on legal restrictions applied in each country. The Kia Connected Services system has been updated in the Sportage to show drivers the price of fuel at nearby filling stations, as well as the location and real-time availability of parking spaces. For 2020, a telematics system with UVO Connect Services becomes standard equipment across the line-up.

All models in the Sportage line-up feature Apple CarPlay^TM and Android Auto^TM with voice control, as well as Bluetooth® with music streaming. A USB port for connection of an audio media device is provided in the front, and a USB charging port in the rear is provided on all versions. The 160-watt audio system comes with DAB radio with MP3 compatibility and features six-speakers. A shark fin antenna is fitted to all Sportage models for clearer reception. For audiophiles, ‘GT-Line S’ feature an uprated eight-speaker system from JBL®, with a more powerful 320-watt output, external amplifier and Clari-Fi™ music restoration technology.

Other available convenience features in the Sportage include a wireless smartphone charger at the base of the centre console (standard on DCT ‘GT-Line S’ models), rear-view parking camera with dynamic parking lines (all grades), and a Smart Power Tailgate (fitted to ‘GT-Line S’).

You can find more visual details of the 2020 Kia Sportage UK Version gallery by scrolling up.

2020 Kia Sportage UK Version Interior Detail

DESIGN AND PACKAGING

The original design of the fourth generation Sportage was led by Kia’s European design studio in Frankfurt, Germany, with input from the company’s design centres in Namyang, Korea and Irvine, California. The three studios modernised the look of the Sportage in 2018, which encompassed a range of updates to its sporty exterior design. Changes extended to ‘GT-Line’ models, which featured a series of unique upgrades compared to other trim grades.

A redesigned front bumper with new fog lamp housings, and gloss black or bright chrome inserts leading from the fog lamps into the lower air intake were introduced. The Sportage is available with an evolved version of its ‘tiger-nose’ grille, with gloss black or matt black grille. New full-LED headlamps with four-point LED daytime running lights and redesigned fog lamps also provide maximum visibility and enhance the SUV’s light signature for a more modern appearance. A metallic skid plate is available on variants ‘3’ and above.

At the rear, the slim combination lamps retain their horizontal shape, with the revised design featuring a new C-shaped LED light signature. The reversing lamp and reflectors are now integrated into the new rear bumper, which is now finished with a flash of chrome across its base.

In profile, the Sportage is available with 17- and 19-inch alloy wheel designs, and some versions have the sill trim finished in chrome. Five paint colours were added to the Sportage, including new shades of silver, grey, blue, and copper.

Changes to ‘GT-Line’ included a new gloss black hot-stamped radiator grille, gloss black and silver skid plates, and dark chrome inserts on the front bumper, the side sills and rear tailgate. The unique 19-inch alloy wheels of the ‘GT-Line’ were redesigned, and all ‘GT-Line’ models are fitted with a dual exhaust rear valance and revised ‘ice cube’ LED fog lamp designs.

Sleek and rakish, the Sportage successfully incorporates the key features of an SUV in an urban-friendly, athletic and muscular package. The Sportage is 5mm longer than its predecessor but with an unchanged wheelbase, width and height. The dimensions make it look lithe and sporty, with a low drag co-efficient of 0.33. Aerodynamic efficiency helps to reduce fuel consumption and emissions at speed.

The Sportage has a sporty profile, accentuated by the high shoulder line, with a standard chrome belt-like strip and body-coloured door mirrors and handles, with chrome inserts. Roof rails and privacy glass on the rear side windows and tailgate are also standard. The lower body sides are deeply sculpted and flow into powerful wheel arches, and there are black side sill and wheel-arch mouldings.

Straight, flowing character lines stretch across the body above the sills, beneath the glasshouse and over the side window line, giving the profile a sense of tension and precision. This is emphasised by the sharp styling of the 17- and 19-inch alloy wheels, which feature a fresh design.

There is a chiselled and voluminous look to the rear, which features a mixture of concave and convex surfaces and horizontal lines which emphasise the car’s wide and stable stance. There are rear combination lamps with their distinctive night-time signature. The rear lamp units are LED on ‘3’, ‘GT-Line’ and ‘GT-Line S’ versions. Beneath the tailgate is an aerodynamic diffuser, a further nod to the car’s sporty credentials.

You can find more visual details of the 2020 Kia Sportage UK Version gallery by scrolling up.

2020 Kia Sportage UK Version Exerior Detail

The inside line

The Sportage continues the leap forward Kia has been making with actual and perceived quality through flush-fitting fixtures and trim; premium-standard, soft-to-the-touch materials; and luxurious detailing. It has the look and feel of a car from a higher market sector, but without the hefty price tag.

While the layout of the previous Sportage cabin is retained, the 2018 facelift introduced a series of minor upgrades to further engender a sense of modernity. The upgraded model is equipped with a new steering wheel and revised driver instrument cluster. The design of the ventilation and air conditioning controls at the centre of the dashboard have also been revised, with new bezels around the dials adding further clarity to the dashboard layout.

The dash is horizontal in layout and split into an upper display area containing the Thin Film Transistor instrument graphics and 8.0-inch colour infotainment touchscreen. The lower section is the control area, with soft-painted buttons for the heater switches and the audio system. The touchscreen infotainment system means the interior designers have been able to reduce the number of switches, making the cabin look neater and less cluttered while improving ergonomics and, ultimately, safety, because the driver’s gaze needs to be averted from the road for shorter periods.

The front of the cabin is driver-centric, with a pronounced cockpit layout and simple switches grouped according to function. This is also more ergonomic and safer. The centre console is angled at 7.2 degrees towards the driver for easier visibility.

Sportage ‘3’, ‘GT-Line’ and ‘GT-Line S’ models benefit from a 4.2-inch TFT LCD supervision cluster mounted between the two recessed dials of the dual-bezel instrument display – yet another indicator of Kia’s unstinting effort to raise quality. The supervision cluster incorporates trip information, outdoor temperature and a gearshift indicator. The touchscreen infotainment systems – standard on all Sportages – are integrated with a rear-view camera display to help owners when reversing or parking.

All versions have tilt and telescopic steering wheel adjustment, a height-adjustable driver’s seat (10-way power-adjustable on ‘3’ and ‘GT-Line S’ along with 8-way power-adjustable front passenger seat) and a leather-trimmed steering wheel and gearshifter. All Sportage models come with heated front and outer rear seats.

You can find more visual details of the 2020 Kia Sportage UK Version gallery by scrolling up.

The top of the crash pad is made up of foamed plastic with fine quality stitching and features detailed texturing. This is echoed in the door trim quality, which is in leather. There is an additional grip handle on the passenger’s side, with a satin chrome finish, and the capacity of the front-door bottle holders is a generous one-litre. The front sun visors slide from side to side so that they can be neatly positioned to block out the sun, and they contain large mirrors. An organ-type boxed accelerator pedal has been installed for greater comfort.

Grade ‘2’ has premium black cloth upholstery and in grade ‘3’ there is black leather. ‘GT-Line’ and ‘GT-Line S’ variants both have black leather upholstery with red piping and stitching.

The fascia trim is metallic effect on grade ‘2’ and high-gloss black on all versions, and there are satin chrome door handles. Aluminium door scuff plates feature on ‘3’, ‘GT-Line’ and ‘GT-Line S’ versions. The headlining across the range, apart from ‘GT-Line’ and ‘GT-Line S’, is in light grey. A longer centre console tray provides more storage space for small items.

DYNAMICS

The Kia Sportage rides on fully independent front and rear suspension, carried over unchanged for the refreshed model. Delivering a comfortable ride and superior damping over poor road surfaces, the chassis is nevertheless tuned to offer intuitive and engaging handling. ‘GT-Line’ models feature their own specially-tuned suspension characteristics, endowing the Sportage with sharper, more athletic handling and a slightly firmer ride – crucially, without compromising the SUV’s fundamental comfort and stability. The suspension characteristics for the Sportage ‘GT-Line’ were tested and fine-tuned on a variety of European roads, with European drivers in mind.

The fourth generation Sportage is fitted with Kia’s ‘R-MDPS’ Rack-Mounted electric Motor-Driven Power Steering. As standard, the R-MDPS system delivers quick responses and enhanced steering feel, placing the Sportage among the most agile models in the compact SUV class. The Sportage is fitted as standard with a column-mounted power steering system, which delivers linear responses to driver inputs and maximum stability and confidence at the wheel.

The Sportage is equipped with 305 mm ventilated disc brakes at the front and 302 mm solid disc brakes at the rear.

You can find more visual details of the 2020 Kia Sportage UK Version gallery by scrolling up.

2020 Kia Sportage UK Version Side View

ENGINES

Th There are three engines available on the Kia Sportage. The 1.6-litre T-GDi (Turbocharged Gasoline Direct injection) engine produces 174bhp and 265Nm torque, with emissions from 183g/km. The naturally aspirated 130bhp 1.6-litre GDi engine offers torque output of 161Nm, and CO₂ emissions from 177g/km. Both petrol engines are fitted with particulate filters to minimise harmful emissions, ensuring full compliance with the Euro 6d TEMP emissions standard. Sportage models equipped with the T-GDi engine are available with either front- or all-wheel drive, and a seven-speed Dual-Clutch Transmission (DCT) on all-wheel drive models.

Both petrol engines are direct-injection (GDi) 1.6-litre units from Kia’s Gamma family. In the Sportage, the T-GDi engine develops 174bhp at 5,500rpm, while maximum torque is 265Nm from 1,500rpm to 4,500rpm. The result is instantaneous response to throttle inputs and rapid acceleration without interruption. It was developed entirely in-house by Kia engineers at the Namyang research and development centre in Korea, with input from Kia’s European technical centre in Frankfurt. It accelerates the Sportage from 0-60mph in 8.9 seconds (2WD manual) or an even faster 8.8 seconds with the AWD 7DCT. For the 1.6 T-GDi engine, CO₂ emissions are from 183g/km, with fuel economy up to 34.9mpg (combined).

A number of factors contribute towards the exemplary driveability and efficiency of the lightweight, all-aluminium, 1.6-litre T-GDi unit. There is continuously variable valve timing on both the inlet and exhaust sides, electronic throttle control and light, low-friction moving parts. The crankshaft is offset from the centre line to aid smoothness.

A twin-scroll turbocharger is integrated within the exhaust manifold and there is a split wall between cylinders one/four and two/three, which results in reduced interference, faster response and higher torque at low engine revolutions. All of this eliminates the ‘turbo lag’ between the driver pressing the accelerator and the turbocharger building up boost pressure, while simultaneously improving gas flow and reducing heat losses for maximum efficiency.

The integrated exhaust manifold and turbocharger, in a one-piece casting, improve sealing while reducing weight by 1.5kg. Simultaneously, it improves gas flow and reduces heat losses, further boosting efficiency. For added durability, the cylinder block has been heat-treated and the crankshaft, pistons and connecting rods are stronger than in the normally aspirated unit, while there are additional oil jets.

The normally aspirated 1.6 GDi Gamma engine develops 130bhp at 6,300rpm and 161Nm of torque at 4,850rpm. Like the T-GDi unit, it is an aluminium, 1,591cc, 16-valve twin-cam engine with variable valve timing, but with a higher compression ratio. Performance is enhanced by the high-pressure direct-injection fuelling and variable induction systems, while fuel economy and emissions have been reduced by the use of a variable valve system on both the intake and exhaust sides, T-5 heat treatment insertions in the block and a roller chain system.

A fine mist of petrol is injected directly into each of the four cylinders at up to 135 bar in minutely precise quantities and with millisecond timing to ensure the engine uses only as much fuel as it needs, exactly when it needs it. The result is highly efficient combustion that ensures excellent performance with low fuel consumption and emissions – the 1.6-litre GDi with ISG has a combined fuel economy of up to 36.2mpg and CO₂ emissions of 177g/km on grade ‘2’. It accelerates the Sportage from 0-60mph in 11.1 seconds on to a maximum speed of 113mph.

You can find more visual details of the 2020 Kia Sportage UK Version gallery by scrolling up.

2020 Kia Sportage UK Version Front View 3/4

All-New EcoDynamics+ diesel mild-hybrid powertrain

The Sportage offers diesel engines that feature Kia’s all-new ‘EcoDynamics+’ 1.6-litre diesel mild-hybrid powertrains. The 1.6-litre diesel mild-hybrid powertrains are offered with a six-speed manual gearbox with front-wheel-drive or seven-speed Dual-Clutch Transmission (DCT) gearbox. In addition, a seven-speed Dual-Clutch Transmission with all-wheel-drive is offered. Producing 134bhp, the manual version has CO₂ emissions from 141g/km and is capable of up to 52.3mpg on the WLTP combined cycle. A top speed of 112mph is possible, with acceleration to 60mph in 10.8 seconds. The seven-speed DCT automatic 2WD versions also emit CO₂ from 141g/km and achieve 52.3mpg, with a top speed of 112mph and acceleration to 62mph in 11.4 seconds. For extra traction, buyers have the choice of a four-wheel-drive edition with seven-speed DCT automatic transmission, that manages CO₂ emissions from 159g/km and fuel economy on the combined cycle from 46.3mpg, while accelerating to 60mph takes 11.6 seconds, with the same top speed of 112mph.

EcoDynamics+ has been engineered to deliver greater efficiency from internal combustion engines on the road, by using electric power delivered and recuperated seamlessly. In the Sportage, the system supplements acceleration with power from a compact 0.44 kWh 48-volt lithium-ion battery and extends engine ‘off time’ with a new Mild-Hybrid Starter-Generator (MHSG) unit. The MHSG is connected by belt to the engine’s crankshaft, and switches seamlessly between ‘motor’ and ‘generator’ modes.

In ‘motor’ mode the battery is discharged under acceleration providing power assistance to the engine, to reduce engine load and emissions. Under deceleration – when braking or coasting towards a junction or downhill – the MHSG switches to ‘generator’ mode, recuperating energy from the crankshaft to recharge the battery on-the-go. An advanced Electronic Control Unit (ECU) calculates the most efficient use of available energy and adjusts accordingly, taking into account the amount of charge remaining in the car’s batteries.

The battery and MHSG also support a new ‘Moving Stop & Start’ function. If the battery has sufficient charge, the combustion engine turns off automatically during in-gear deceleration and braking. The MHSG seamlessly re-ignites the engine when the driver presses the throttle pedal.

The compact nature of the mild-hybrid powertrain made it relatively straightforward to integrate into the Sportage’s existing architecture. The 48-volt battery is located beneath the boot floor, minimising the impact on practicality. Because the MHSG integrates directly with the engine, driving the crankshaft via a belt, there was little need to repackage the engine bay.

Thanks to Kia’s Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) active emissions control technology, the EcoDynamics+ powertrain can reduce CO₂ emissions by up to four per cent on the Worldwide-harmonised Light vehicles Test Procedure (WLTP).

Intelligent Stop and Go (ISG)

All versions of the Sportage are fitted with Kia’s Intelligent Stop and Go (ISG) stop-start system to reduce fuel consumption and emissions in traffic.  As the name implies, this switches off the engine when the car comes to rest and the driver puts the gear lever into neutral and releases the clutch pedal, or brings the car to a stop with automatic transmission. The engine restarts instantly as soon as the clutch pedal is partially engaged again, or the driver releases the brake pedal in automatics. This feature means the car is not using fuel or emitting CO₂ when it is at rest.

ISG consists of crankshaft position, battery and vacuum sensors plus neutral, on-off and clutch switches that feed into an electronic control unit. This operates the ISG starter, intelligent alternator and cluster. The air conditioning units and bonnet switch also feed into the ISG ECU.

The crankshaft position sensor measures the crankshaft angle during engine run-out and monitors it while the vehicle is stopped, ensuring the starter is activated for as short a time as possible by optimising cranking and combustion. The battery sensor monitors battery condition and temperature, while the clutch and neutral switches recognise when drivers wish to continue driving and ensure the engine is started. There is a brake booster pressure sensor to make sure the engine continues to operate if brake boost falls too low.

A new heavy-duty maintenance-free Absorbent Glass Mat (AGM) battery delivers the power necessary to run the system, and intelligent alternator management reduces drain on the battery while accelerating and recharges the battery during coasting and braking. The system has been engineered not to stop the engine during warm-up after a cold start or if the air conditioning is working hard. Drivers can also manually turn off ISG through a switch on the dashboard.

You can find more visual details of the 2020 Kia Sportage UK Version gallery by scrolling up.

2020 Kia Sportage UK Version Front View

Intelligent all-wheel drive

Intelligent electronically controlled all-wheel-drive is an option on 1.6-litre T-GDi and CRDi variants. This continuously monitors driving conditions and anticipates when it will be needed, whereas other systems react only to changing circumstances.  As a result, the Sportage is always in the correct drive mode. It now incorporates Advanced Traction Cornering Control, which monitors road speed, throttle input and steering angle and distributes torque between the left and right wheels to maximise cornering stability.

The all-wheel-drive system normally delivers 100 per cent of engine torque to the front wheels, but the torque can be redistributed up to a maximum of 60:40 front-to-rear if road conditions deteriorate or to enhance cornering stability. For off-road driving, owners can manually select lock mode, which gives a 50:50 torque split at speeds of up to 25mph.

The intelligent electronically controlled all-wheel-drive system makes decisions by analysing data from the car’s electronic control unit. Its fully active all-wheel-drive coupling is electro-hydraulically activated via a multi-plate clutch. The benefits for the driver are reduced fuel consumption (because all-wheel drive is engaged only when necessary), greater cornering stability and the elimination of under- and oversteer in extreme circumstances or road conditions.  The system has a high thermal capacity, which means it will not overheat and need to shut itself down in repeated hill climbing or when towing at maximum capacity.

A number of electronic features are fitted to the Sportage to increase safety during on-road driving and to maximise the car’s off-road capability or in areas where bad weather and poor driving conditions are facts of life.

You can find more visual details of the 2020 Kia Sportage UK Version gallery by scrolling up.

All versions are fitted with Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and Vehicle Stability Management (VSM) to counteract any tendency of the car to understeer or oversteer in hard cornering or slippery conditions and when accelerating on roads with differing levels of grip from left to right.

These are linked to three additional systems – Downhill Brake Control (DBC), Hill-start Assist Control (HAC) and a Roll-over Sensor. DBC ensures the car maintains a steady speed of 5mph when descending steep slopes so that the driver does not need to touch the brakes, which might result in a loss of traction. HAC prevents slip-back when setting off uphill and eliminates the possibility of wheelspin. The Roll-over Sensor detects when the car might be in danger of tipping over and deploys the curtain airbags and seat-belt pre-tensioners so that occupants are fully protected should the worst happen.

All versions have Trailer Stability Assist to make towing safer. It works through the ESC and Anti-lock Brake systems, and continuously monitors vehicle stability, gently applying some front braking force if it detects a potential loss of control. If this is insufficient, gentle all-wheel braking is introduced, along with a reduction in engine power, until the vehicle and trailer are stabilised.

Transmissions

There are two transmissions with the Sportage. Six-speed manual gearboxes are standard across the range, while the 7DCT gearbox is offered with the 1.6-litre CRDi engine. Similarly, the 7DCT transmission is available on ‘3’, ‘GT-Line’ and ‘GT-Line S’ grades with all-wheel-drive.

The 7DCT gearbox was developed in-house at Kia’s Namyang research and development centre in Korea with the aim of enhancing fuel efficiency while delivering the comfort and smoothness of a torque converter transmission in automatic mode, with the sportiness of a manual when the driver chooses to take control of gearchanges via the steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters.

One clutch operates the odd-numbered gears and the other the even-numbered ratios, ensuring that the transmission is always primed for the next up- or downshift. As a result, torque losses during shifting are reduced, improving efficiency, while gearchanges are at least as smooth as with the best torque converter auto.

The manual is a slick-shifting unit with the forward gears arranged in a double-H pattern and reverse to the left and up, selected by first raising a collar around the shift lever. Longer gearing for the higher ratios and optimised software for the gearshift advisory system help the driver to get maximum fuel efficiency with no loss of driveability. The manual transmission was developed primarily with European markets in mind and has multi-cone synchronisation, optimised gear design, enhanced efficiency, reduced power loss and enhanced durability. It is filled with low-viscosity oil and requires no servicing during the life of the car.

You can find more visual details of the 2020 Kia Sportage UK Version gallery by scrolling up.

2020 Kia Sportage UK Version Exterior Detail

You can find more visual details of the 2020 Kia Sportage UK Version gallery by scrolling up.

TECHNOLOGY

The upgraded Sportage adopts a series of Kia’s latest advanced driving assistance and infotainment systems, building on its reputation for high occupant safety and high-tech convenience.

The latest driver assist technologies available in the Sportage include Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop and Go, an Around View Monitor for easier parking manoeuvres, and Driver Attention Warning (DAW), to combat fatigue and inattentiveness at the wheel. Already a strong performer in Euro NCAP’s tests, Sportage buyers have access to a wide array of existing driver assist systems. These include Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA) with pedestrian detection on ‘GT-Line S’ versions and Blind-Spot Collision Warning (BCW) on ‘3’ and ‘GT-Line S’ models, while Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS), High Beam Assist (HBA) and Speed Limit Information Function (SLIF) are fitted to all versions of the Sportage.

Every model is equipped as standard with Kia’s Vehicle Stability Management (VSM), which maximises stability when braking and cornering by controlling the car’s Electronic Stability Control (ESC) if it detects a loss of traction. The Sportage is also fitted with driver and front passenger airbags, first-row side airbags, and first- and second-row curtain airbags.

The infotainment system features a ‘frameless’ 8.0-inch touchscreen satellite navigation system, with DAB digital radio, and include Kia’s Connected Services powered by TomTom® as standard, offering a wide range of driving-oriented information. Connectivity features include live traffic updates, speed camera locations and alerts, local search, and weather forecasts, depending on legal restrictions applied in each country. The Kia Connected Services system can show drivers the price of fuel at nearby filling stations, as well as the location and real-time availability of parking spaces. In addition, the latest upgrade for 2020 is a telematics system with UVO Connect Services.

All models in the Sportage line-up feature Apple CarPlay^TM and Android Auto^TM with voice control, as well as Bluetooth® with music streaming. USB port for connection of a media device is provided in the front, and a USB charging port in the rear is provided on all grades. The 160-watt audio system comes with DAB radio with MP3 compatibility and features six-speakers. A shark fin antenna is fitted to all Sportage models for clearer reception. ‘GT-Line S’ models additionally feature an uprated eight-speaker system from JBL®, with a more powerful 320-watt output, external amplifier and Clari-Fi™ music restoration technology.

Other available convenience features in the Sportage include a wireless smartphone charger at the base of the centre console (standard on DCT ‘GT-Line S’ models), rear-view parking camera with dynamic parking lines (all grades), and a Smart Power Tailgate fitted to ‘GT-Line S’ versions.

You can find more visual details of the 2020 Kia Sportage UK Version gallery by scrolling up.

2020 Kia Sportage UK Version Wheels

SAFETY

A number of advanced driver assistance systems are offered on the Sportage, all designed to minimise the possibility of an accident. In certain models these complement the comprehensive active and passive safety features fitted to every version. As a result of the measures taken first to prevent accidents and then to mitigate against the effects of them if they are unavoidable, the Sportage has earned a five-star safety rating from Euro NCAP. The Sportage was commended for its ability to protect passengers of all statures in all seats, faring especially well in a side-on impact with a pole, and it scored 71 per cent for its active safety assist technologies.

All models have Driver Attention Warning (DAW) and Lane Keep Assist System (LKAS) to alert a tired driver who may be about to stray into the path of a vehicle approaching from behind; High Beam Assist (HBA) to switch between full and dipped beam automatically when there are other vehicles in their vicinity on unlit roads; and an Speed Limit Information Function (SLIF) within the instrument cluster.

All editions of the Sportage have a reversing camera integrated into the 8.0-inch touchscreen, and reversing sensors are included, too. Front parking sensors are included on ‘3’, ‘GT-Line’ and ‘GT-Line S’ versions and a 360-degree Around View Monitor delivers a helicopter-style view from the above the vehicle to aid manoeuvring, and is fitted to ‘GT-Line S’ models.

All versions have Anti-Lock Brakes (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BAS), so that the car comes to rest in the shortest possible distance in an emergency, and with maximum retardation, regardless of the pressure applied to the pedal by the driver. Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and Vehicle Stability Management (VSM) prevent the car from skidding in corners or when accelerating on surfaces with different levels of grip between left and right. Hill-start Assist holds the car for two seconds when setting off on inclines to prevent it rolling backwards.

You can find more visual details of the 2020 Kia Sportage UK Version gallery by scrolling up.

Downhill Brake Control limits the car’s speed when travelling down steep or slippery off-road inclines, preventing the need for the driver to cover the brake pedal and risk losing traction. It maintains a steady speed of 5mph. And all versions have Trailer Stability Assist, which uses the ABS, ESC and VSM systems to counter-act the possibility of a caravan or trailer snaking in high winds or when the Sportage is being driven at too high a speed.

Cruise control is standard with a speed limiter, with an advanced adaptive cruise control system fitted to ‘GT-Line S’ models. Emergency Stop Signalling flashes the high-level brake light in an emergency stop to warn the drivers of following vehicles, and a Tyre Pressure Monitoring system (TPMS) ensures the driver is given advanced notice of a loss of pressure long before it could lead to sudden deflation. Forward Collision Avoidance Assist (FCA), that is able to detect pedestrians is fitted to ‘GT-Line S’ models, while Blind Spot Collision Warning (BCW) is included on grade ‘3’ and ‘GT-Line S’ iterations.

There are six airbags (twin front, front side and side curtain) as standard. Front seat-belt pre-tensioners reduce the forces on the wearer’s chest in a collision, and ISOFIX top tethers and anchors are fitted to allow child seats to be mounted. A passenger airbag cut-off switch is standard to permit a rear-facing child seat to be carried in the front of the car. Speed-sensing automatic door locks ensure the security of all passengers. They are automatically disabled in the event of an accident.

The body shell of the Sportage is made up of 51 per cent Advanced High-strength Steel, which affords greater protection by better withstanding impacts and dissipating any crash energy through carefully designed load paths away from the passenger cell.

You can find more visual details of the 2020 Kia Sportage UK Version gallery by scrolling up.

2020 Kia Sportage UK Version Interior Detail

SPECIFICATION HIGHLIGHTS

Every Sportage comes incredibly well equipped with 17-inch alloy wheels, body-coloured exterior handles with chrome inserts, an 8.0-inch touch-screen satellite navigation system, a telematics system with UVO Connected Services, in addition to Kia Connected Services with TomTom®. In addition, there’s roof rails, privacy glass on the rear side windows and tailgate, black premium cloth upholstery and powered lumbar adjustment for the driver’s seat, electrically folding door mirrors with LED indicators, reversing sensors, a rear USB charging point, automatic wipers, an auto-dimming rear-view mirror, dual automatic air conditioning, front and rear heated seats and the Lane-Keep Assist (LKA), High-Beam Assist (HBA) and Speed Limit Information Function (SLIF).

That’s in addition to all-round disc brakes, projection front fog lights, LED daytime running lamps, chrome window surrounds, a leather-trimmed steering wheel and gearshifter, all-round electric windows, DAB radio, Bluetooth® with voice recognition, steering wheel controls and music streaming, USB port, an LED front map light, a ventilation duct and 12-volt power outlet in the rear. Other key equipment includes automatic light control, a driver’s manual seat height adjuster, remote central locking with foldaway key, reversing camera system and Apple CarPlay^TM and Android Auto^TM smartphone connectivity. In addition, there’s Trailer Stability Assist (TSA), Hill-Start Assist Control (HSAC), Downhill Brake Control (DBC) and cruise control.

Grade ‘3’ models builds on the standard equipment and features a panoramic sunroof, a front wiper de-icer, black leather upholstery, 10-way driver’s & 8-way passenger’s power adjustable seat (sliding, reclining, height adjustment), a high-gloss black centre fascia, aluminium door scuff plates, engine start/stop button with Smart Entry system, heated steering wheel, a 4.2-inch colour supervision cluster display and Electronic Parking Brake (EPB). On the outside of the Sportage ‘3’, there’s front parking sensors, black wheel arch body mouldings and side sills with chrome insert, silver painted front and rear skid plates, LED bi-function headlights, LED rear lights and Blind-Spot Collision Warning (BCW)

‘GT-Line’ builds on grade ‘2’ specification with sporty styling flourishes which mark it out as a more dynamic version of the Sportage. There are exclusive 19-inch alloy wheels, a high gloss ‘diamond’ mesh radiator grille with dark chrome surround, silver painted skid plates front and rear, LED rear combination lamps, front parking sensors, engine start/stop button with smart entry system and front wiper de-icer and paddleshifters on DCT versions. A ‘GT-Line’ exterior styling pack adds ice-cube LED front fog lights, LED Bi-function headlights with adaptive lighting system and dual exhausts. On the inside, there’s black and grey leather upholstery, a high-gloss black centre fascia, black headlining, aluminium pedals and scuff plates, a chrome boot sill guard, a 4.2-inch colour supervision cluster display and a D-shaped leather-covered sports steering wheel.

‘GT-Line S’ offers all of the equipment that ‘GT-Line’ features plus more luxurious flourishes – black leather upholstery with red piping and stitching, adaptive cruise control, a panoramic sunroof, 10-way power adjustable driver and 8-way adjustable front passenger seats, ventilated front seats, heated steering wheel and 8-speaker JBL® premium sound system with subwoofer, external amplifier and front centre speaker, Smart Power Tailgate and a wireless phone charger (DCT only). Safety devices include Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA) including pedestrian detection, a 360-degree around view monitor, Blind-Spot Collision Warning (BCW).

WARRANTY AND AFTER-CARE

Kia set a new benchmark in 2007 when it launched the cee’d with an industry-best seven-year/100,000-mile warranty. That demonstration of faith in the quality and reliability of Kia products was subsequently extended to every model.

A major benefit is that it is transferable to subsequent owners at no charge, as long as the seven-year time limit has not been reached and the mileage is below 100,000.

The mechanical warranty is supported by a 12-year anti-perforation warranty and a five-year paint warranty.

Servicing is required every 20,000 miles (10,000 miles for the T-GDi engines) or once a year, whichever comes soonest. The Sportage is available with Kia’s ‘Kia Care’ service plans, which have been developed to provide customers with a wide range of service plan options for any Kia model within the first seven years of the vehicle’s life – matching its industry-leading seven-year warranty.

You can find more visual details of the 2020 Kia Sportage UK Version gallery by scrolling up.

2020 Kia Sportage UK Version Rear View 3/4

The service plans include a comprehensive range of options including the original, traditional, first, third and fifth services and those in between, but in addition a customer can now purchase services up to and including the seventh service which matches the full length of the warranty. The plans are available for all Kia owners and can be purchased at any point of ownership for cars up to five years old.

The Kia Promise was introduced to give customers the best ownership experience by giving them access to seven key benefits. The Kia Promise is activated after purchase and is done by simply registering on the online portal, MyKia. Along with the industry leading seven-year/100,000 mile warranty, other benefits of the Kia Promise include complimentary seven day insurance and £250 Insurance Excess Return for one year; easy to use Click & Collect on Genuine Kia accessories; convenient online service booking; Family-Like Care and Accident AfterCare. Every new Kia also comes with complimentary Roadside Assistance for 12 months. When a customer registers on MyKia, Kia Roadside Assistance Plus, the highest level of cover provided by the RAC, can be unlocked, which includes onward travel and European cover.

Source