2026 Kia Sportage Baseline

• The 2026 Kia Sportage GT-Line introduces “star-map” LED lighting and an upright grille for a more assertive stance.

• Interior quality gets a meaningful boost — cleaner dashboard, improved trim, and a large touchscreen.

• Powertrains stay familiar, but the plug-in hybrid’s extra power puts it closer to sportier territory.

Bolder Front End, Familiar Profile

You notice it right away. The front fascia on the new Sportage GT-Line is chunkier, more upright. It trades some of the sleekness of earlier models for presence — like it wants you to notice. The new LED “star-map” signature is a nice touch, too. Distinct without trying too hard.

That said, the side profile is mostly familiar. Clean body lines, slightly more prominent wheel arches, and new wheel options (17- to 19-inch depending on trim). It’s still unmistakably a Sportage, but with a bit more bite.

Inside: Cleaner, Calmer, and More Useful

The cabin now feels less busy. Gone is the overly sculpted dash — replaced by a flatter layout that gives more breathing room. A 12.3-inch touchscreen dominates the center, blending into a gently curved digital cluster. It’s not just for show either. Swipe-down shortcut menus, better graphics, and improved haptics make it far easier to live with.

Some thoughtful updates, too: those metallic trims? Brushed finish now. Less scratch-prone, less fingerprint-prone. Small thing, big improvement.

AI voice control is standard across most trims, and it actually works decently well. Commands feel less robotic — more like a co-driver who doesn’t miss a beat.

Hybrid, Plug-In, and Power That’s More Than Just Numbers

Under the hood, it’s familiar stuff. The 1.6-liter turbocharged engine still forms the backbone, paired with either mild-hybrid, full-hybrid, or plug-in setups.

But the plug-in hybrid GT-Line? That’s where it gets interesting. Output is up — around 283 bhp — a 42 bhp jump. Still front-wheel drive in most markets, but the extra shove should help on quick merges and motorway pulls.

EV-only range is expected to hold steady around 40 miles, which is right on the money for most daily commutes.

Where It Stands

The 2026 Sportage GT-Line isn’t trying to reinvent the wheel. It’s evolving — enough to stay fresh against rivals like the Hyundai Tucson, Nissan Qashqai, and Volkswagen Tiguan. Pricing starts around £29,000 in the UK, depending on trim and powertrain.

For buyers chasing an SUV that’s practical, reasonably sharp to look at, and now a bit more refined inside, this updated GT-Line fits the bill nicely.

Technical Specifications: 2026 Kia Sportage GT-Line

Performance

• Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV): 283 hp (211 kW)

• Full Hybrid (HEV): 235 hp (175 kW)

• Mild Hybrid / Petrol: 148 hp (110 kW)

Powertrain

• Engine: 1.6L turbocharged inline-4 (Smartstream G1.6 T-GDi)

• Transmission: 6-speed automatic or 8-speed automatic

• Drivetrain: Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) or All-Wheel Drive (AWD)

Body Measurements

• Length: 4,515 mm (177.8 in)

• Width: 1,865 mm (73.4 in)

• Height: 1,645 mm (64.8 in)

• Wheelbase: 2,680 mm (105.5 in)

Capacities

• Seating: 5 passengers

• Cargo Volume: Class-leading rear cargo space (specific volume not specified)

• Fuel Tank: Approximately 54 liters (14.3 gallons)

Price

• United Kingdom: Starting from £29,000

• United States: MSRP to be announced

Source