Kia’s popular compact crossover is redesigned for 2017 on a slightly larger platform. It gains bolder styling, a more spacious interior, and a host of safety and connectivity equipment.
Sporting an evolution of what Kia calls the “tiger-nose” grille, the new Sportage is meant to look wider and “more planted.” Kia claims that the new design results in a more aerodynamic shape, which helps to reduce fuel consumption.
Inside, the 2017 Sportage is available with a host of safety equipment, including obstacle detection, lane-departure warning, blind-spot monitor, and rear cross-traffic alert.
The new Sportage also marks the debut of Kia’s new UVO3 infotainment system, which includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity, UVO eServices telematics services, up to 8 GB of music storage, and Wi-Fi tethering capability.
Per Kia, the new Sportage’s new architecture is significantly stiffer than the previous model’s, a hint that the new crossover will enjoy more refined ride and handling, as well as improved crash-test ratings.
The base 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine returns largely unchanged, while the SX Turbo’s 2.0-liter turbocharged engine is retuned for improved midrange performance. The turbo mill produces 251 peak horsepower, down 9 from the previous version of the engine.
The new Sportage should arrive in showrooms before summer 2016.
CG Says:
We’ve always liked the Sportage, but the competition in this segment has been stiff. With fresh styling and a host of new features, Kia’s compact should find itself back on top of shopping lists in this hotly contested category.
