The 2025 Kia Sportage has been introduced in South Korea, showcasing updates and enhancements ahead of its Australian release in the second quarter of 2025. The refreshed model incorporates design features influenced by Kia’s EV9 electric flagship, such as new LED headlights, revised bumpers, and updated taillights. Additional exterior changes include fresh alloy wheel designs and the debut of an X-Line trim with rugged styling elements like black badging, 19-inch rims, and a suede headliner.
Inside the cabin, the Sportage maintains its dual 12.3-inch screens but upgrades to the latest ccNC software, offering over-the-air updates, wireless smartphone mirroring, and fingerprint recognition. New interior features include sleeker air vents, a touch-sensitive steering wheel, advanced safety technologies like lane change assist, driver monitoring, and an improved autonomous emergency braking system. Enhanced convenience is provided by features such as virtual key compatibility, augmented reality navigation, and auto-dipping wing mirrors.
Under the bonnet, the 1.6-liter turbocharged petrol engine now pairs with a smoother eight-speed torque converter automatic transmission, replacing the previous seven-speed dual-clutch. The hybrid version receives a more powerful electric motor, boosting combined output to 172kW, although the combined torque figure remains unconfirmed. The future of the naturally aspirated 2.0-liter engine and the 2.0-liter turbo-diesel in the Australian lineup is unclear, though both are expected to remain available.
Kia may also expand the range by introducing the plug-in hybrid version of the 1.6-liter turbocharged engine already offered in Korea. Improvements to ride quality and cabin quietness include new two-way front dampers and sound-deadening materials in the door pillars and panels. The Sportage will continue to be available in both short-wheelbase (Europe) and long-wheelbase configurations, with the latter designated for markets like Australia, Korea, and North America.
Details regarding Australian pricing and specifications for the 2025 Sportage are expected early next year. With upgraded technology, performance enhancements, and refined design, the facelifted Kia Sportage aims to remain a strong contender in the medium SUV segment.
