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• Updated interior and exterior design
• Revised powertrain line-up
• EcoDynamics+ powertrain reduces CO2 emissions by 4%
• Upgraded infotainment and active driver aids
Kia has revealed its upgraded Sportage SUV in Europe, introducing a range of enhancements to the brand’s European and global best-seller.
Headed for SA
Kia Motors South Africa says the refreshed Sportage is scheduled to arrive here by September or October this year, more or less the same time the car will be available in Europe.
Kia SA says: "The engine line-up will be tweaked, but nothing has been confirmed as yet."
The new model pairs an updated exterior and interior design with new safety and infotainment technologies.
The Sportage’s advanced new EcoDynamic+ 48V diesel mild-hybrid powertrain is the first to be launched as part of the brand’s global powertrain electrification strategy.
The automaker claims it is the first manufacturer to offer hybrid, plug-in hybrid, battery-electric and 48-volt mild-hybrid technology across its full model line-up. Kia will launch 16 advanced powertrain vehicles by 2025, including five new hybrids, five plug-in hybrids, five battery-electric vehicles and, in 2020, a new fuel-cell electric vehicle.
Upgrades to the Sportage range also include modifications to GT Line models. European customer deliveries of the new model will start during Q3 2018.
The Sportage’s existing 1.7-litre CRDi (common-rail direct injection) diesel engine has been replaced with a new 1.6-litre ‘U3’ CRDi engine, the cleanest diesel engine Kia has made yet. Higher-powered models are available with all-wheel drive and seven-speed double-clutch transmission.
All powertrains are now fully compliant with the Euro 6d TEMP emissions standard.
Updates to attractive Kia SUV design
Improvements to the sporty exterior design include new front and rear bumpers, as well as redesigned front and rear lights and new 16-, 17- and 19" alloy wheel designs. Options include chrome sill trim and metallic skid plates, and five new paint colours.
GT Line models are equipped with a gloss black hot-stamped radiator grille, a gloss black and silver skid plate, and dark chrome inserts on the side sills and rear tailgate. The GT Line’s unique 19-inch alloy wheels have been redesigned, and all models are fitted with a dual exhaust rear valance and revised ‘ice cube’ LED fog lamp designs.
The newly-refined cabin features a new steering wheel and revised instrument cluster, as well as new black-and-grey two-tone upholstery. GT Line models are available with new black-and-grey two-tone leather seats, or optional black leather with red accents.
Smart safety technologies and new infotainment systems
The upgraded Sportage adopts Kia’s latest advanced driving assistance systems, including Smart Cruise Control with Stop&Go, an Around View Monitor for easier parking manoeuvres, and Driver Attention Warning, to combat fatigue and inattentiveness at the wheel.
Image: The News Market
European customers have a choice of Kia’s new infotainment systems: a 7" touchscreen, or a new ‘frameless’ 8" infotainment system.
