The new KIA Sportage 2022 has been presented in Europe. The fifth generation of KIA’s successful compact SUV is already a reality and comes loaded with important new features. We review the most important keys of a renovation that has completely changed to a benchmark in the European market.
The new generation of KIA Sportage It has been officially presented in the European territory. KIA’s successful compact SUV has undergone a comprehensive transformation. Considered one of the benchmarks in the competitive segment of compact SUVs, it is up-to-date in all areas. It is the fruit of a generational change that will mark its commercial evolution for years to come.
The new Sportage has burst onto the scene sporting a new and striking exterior design, a more spacious and technological cabin, at the same time that it boasts a greater commitment to electrification by launching different hybrid engines. There are many novelties that the KIA model has released, that is why we have carried out the selection of the 5 keys to the new Sportage. Let’s go into detail.
1. A KIA Sportage designed for Europe
The first key is decisive. And it is that for the first time in the 28-year history of the Sportage, the KIA model has a version specially designed for the European market. Months ago the fifth generation of the Sportage debuted in society, but that model did not correspond to the one that would end up reaching the dealerships of the Old Continent.
The new Sportage for Europe has a shorter wheelbase and proportions focused and / or designed to move with ease on European roads. The fact that KIA has gone to the trouble of developing a specific variant for the European customer highlights the leading role that the Sportage plays in this part of the world. It measures 4.51 meters long and its battle reaches 2.68 m.
2. A design that breaks with previous generations
Just take a quick look at the images that illustrate this article to discover that one of the issues of the new Sportage that will give more to talk about is its exterior design. Compared to the outgoing model the differences are more than remarkable. And it is that it echoes the KIA’s new design language. A philosophy that breaks the established molds and barely leaves links with previous generations.
It is on the front where the new Sportage exudes personality. But not only because of its huge grill that adopts the characteristic Tiger Nose shape. Rather because of the new optical groups. Some Matrix LED headlights accompanied by daytime running lights that draw a striking shape. And something similar happens behind. The taillights are attached to enhance the feeling of width. All of this is combined with sharp lines and angular shapes in key areas of the vehicle.
3. The most connected KIA Sportage ever created
It is the turn of the technological equipment. KIA has taken advantage of the generational change to give a boost to the Sportage in matters as important as connectivity and automation. If we have the opportunity to venture into the driving position, we will quickly be enveloped by a digital environment. The large curved screen is key in this regard.
It boasts a 12.3-inch fully digital instrument cluster as well as a great touch screen that also has 12.3 inches. The infotainment system is very complete and allows access to KIA Live online digital services. Similarly, the list of driver assistance systems is extensive and has been enhanced with new functions.
4. Supported by the new N3 platform
The transformation that the Sportage has undergone is comprehensive. If we had the opportunity to see what the insides of the renewed Korean SUV are like, we would find a new base. And it is supported by the new N3 platform. The change in architecture has been key to bet on electrification (as we will see later) as well as to improve the set-up of the chassis.
KIA has devoted a significant amount of resources to improving the dynamic behavior of the vehicle. It equips an electronically controlled suspension system and the new Terrain mode, another of the novelties of this new generation, brings out its more adventurous side.
5. Hybrid versions of the new KIA Sportage
We could not ignore the mechanical section. The new Sportage has come at a key moment for the automotive industry in Europe. The transition to electric mobility is underway. That is why the KIA SUV has raised its commitment to electrification. And it is that, in addition to continuing to have mechanics with light hybridization (MHEV) of 48 volts, it improves the proposal with several hybrid versions.
For the first time the Sportage will be available with hybrid (HEV) and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) technology. Both models are equipped with a 1.6-liter T-GDi gasoline engine. However, the new Sportage HEV accompanies this block of a 60 hp electric motor and a 1.49 kWh lithium-ion polymer battery. It reaches 230 CV. For its part, the new Sportage PHEV opts for a 90 hp electric motor to develop a total power of 265 hp. In addition, its battery with a higher capacity since it reaches 13.8 kWh respectively.