2026 Kia Sportage: What's New for the Latest Model Year

2026 Kia Sportage: What's New for the Latest Model Year

The 2026 Kia Sportage brings the most substantial update since the fifth-generation model launched three years ago. With comprehensive enhancements across design, technology, and powertrain options, this refreshed compact SUV delivers more of everything for today's drivers across Quebec and beyond.

The 2026 Sportage brings a bold evolution of Kia's "Opposites United" design philosophy. Smooth, soft surfaces now contrast with rugged, sheer forms to create a more confident appearance that balances off-road capability with modern styling.

Exterior Design Updates

The most noticeable changes appear at the front and rear, where redesigned bumpers create a more commanding presence. The stacked LED headlight design features optional cube-style projection, while amber LED "Star Map" daytime running lights provide an unmistakable signature. At the rear, LED "Star Map" taillights with a transparent design complete the updated look.

New wheel designs debut across the lineup, with 17-inch, 18-inch, and 19-inch alloy options depending on trim level. X-Line models receive distinct styling elements that emphasize their adventurous character, including unique bumpers, skid plate-shaped molding, and gloss black accents on side mirrors, roof racks, and window surrounds.

Inside the cabin, a new sleek 2-spoke steering wheel design enhances the driver-focused environment while maintaining the spacious feel Sportage owners appreciate.

Technology and Connectivity Enhancements

The 2026 Sportage introduces Kia's Connected Car Navigation Cockpit (ccNC) featuring a standard curved 12.3-inch touchscreen display. This system supports over-the-air (OTA) updates and offers wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity across all trims. Through Kia Connect, drivers gain access to advanced features including remote vehicle start, cabin preconditioning, vehicle lock status checks, maintenance scheduling, and route planning.

An all-new available 10-inch Head-up Display (HUD) upgrades the technology experience. This system integrates Apple CarPlay and Android Auto information directly into the driver's sightline, along with turn-by-turn navigation directions. The HUD is available on X-Line Limited, HEV SX, and PHEV SX trims.

Digital Key functionality expands with the standard Smart Key supporting remote start capability and OTA updates. The available Digital Key 2.0 Premium allows drivers to lock, unlock, and start the vehicle using compatible smart devices without carrying a key fob. The system also enables digital key sharing with family and friends.

Additional technology features include:

  • Multi-function audio/climate touchpad beneath the multimedia screen for easy control switching
  • Available 360-degree Surround-View Monitor with 3D view for enhanced parking awareness
  • Harman Kardon premium audio system (select trims)
  • Wireless charging pad integrated into the upper tray

Interior Comfort and Space

Notable interior enhancements transform the cabin into a premium living space. New accent trims for the instrument panel, centre console, and door panels reduce fingerprint smudges while elevating the aesthetic. Available power folding outside mirrors assist with parking in tight spaces, while available heated rear seats provide cold-weather comfort for all passengers.

The Sportage continues to offer segment-leading roominess with 1,050 millimetres of rear legroom. Cargo capacity reaches up to 1,119 litres in HEV models with the dual-level cargo floor raised, providing flexible carrying capabilities for weekend adventures or daily errands. The dual-level cargo floor comes standard on ICE and HEV variants.

Expanded Powertrain Lineup


The 2026 Sportage offers three distinct powertrain options to match different driving needs and preferences:

Gasoline (ICE): The 2.5-litre 4-cylinder engine produces 187 horsepower and pairs with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Available in both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations, this powertrain offers up to 1,588 kilograms (3,500 lbs) towing capacity when properly equipped.

Hybrid (HEV): A revised 1.6-litre turbo gasoline direct injection engine works with a 47.7kW motor to deliver 231 horsepower - a 4-horsepower increase over the previous model year. The 6-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive system provide confident handling, while the combined fuel economy of 6.7L/100km makes this powertrain highly efficient. Maximum towing capacity reaches 907 kilograms (2,000 lbs) when properly equipped.

Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV): The most powerful Sportage variant pairs a 1.6-litre turbo GDI engine with a 72kW motor for 268 horsepower - a 7-horsepower gain over the previous year. This revised system includes a 13.8kWh lithium-ion polymer battery and delivers standard all-wheel drive capability with 907 kilograms (2,000 lbs) towing capacity when properly equipped.

Trim Level Expansion

The 2026 Sportage lineup now includes expanded electrified options. The gasoline lineup features LX (FWD), LX (AWD), X-Line, EX, EX Premium, and X-Line Limited trims. The Hybrid lineup adds a new EX Premium trim, joining the EX and SX. The Plug-in Hybrid lineup introduces a new EX trim alongside the existing EX Premium and SX.

The X-Line Limited trim showcases the Sportage's rugged capabilities with an Active AWD system featuring Terrain Mode (Snow, Mud, Sand), exclusive 19-inch wheels with all-season tires, and SynTex synthetic leather-trimmed seats.

Advanced Driver Assistance Systems

The 2026 Sportage advances safety technology with enhanced Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). New features include Forward Collision Avoidance Assist with Direct Oncoming Detection & Avoidance, next-level Highway Driving Assist 2 (HDA2), and Front/Side/Rear Parking Distance Warning for comprehensive collision prevention support.

Key Specifications at a Glance

Feature

ICE

HEV

PHEV

Horsepower

187 hp

231 hp

268 hp

Transmission

8-speed automatic

6-speed automatic

6-speed automatic

Drive Type

FWD/AWD

AWD

AWD

Towing Capacity

1,588 kg (3,500 lbs)

907 kg (2,000 lbs)

907 kg (2,000 lbs)

Fuel Economy

8.3L/100 km combined (FWD)

6.7L/100km combined

6.6L/100km combined

Cargo Capacity

Up to 1,119 L

Up to 1,119 L

977 L


Explore the 2026 Sportage at Spinelli Kia

The refreshed 2026 Kia Sportage delivers comprehensive updates that enhance every aspect of the driving experience. From the bold new exterior design and advanced connectivity features to the expanded powertrain lineup and enhanced safety systems, this latest generation raises the bar for compact SUVs.

Visit our team at Spinelli Kia to explore the complete 2026 Sportage lineup and find which powertrain and trim combination best suits your lifestyle.

To learn more about the 2026 Kia Sportage, visit Kia.ca