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Inside the new SA-bound Kia Sportage

 •  Fourth-generation Kia Sportage
 •  Headed for Frankfurt auto show
 •  Due in SA in 2016

Cape Town - Kia reveals the interior of its new Sportage ahead of the SUVs debut at the 2015 Frankfurt auto show on September 15.

Kia South Africa confirmed that its new Sportage will arrive locally during the first half of 2016.

The automaker says its fourth-generation Sportage maintains its "highly-recognisable profile"; 30mm longer wheelbase (now 2.6m), 40mm longer (4.4m) and it sports a longer, more aerodynamic rear spoiler.

Its front overhangs are longer (+20mm) and it has shorter rear overhangs (reduced by 10mm). Its overall height remains unchanged at 1.6m.

Read: Kia teases next-gen Sportage

INTERIOR HIGHLIGHTS

Kia says its design team focused on creating a cabin with a "wide, driver-oriented dashboard using a simple, modern design". The dashboard has a combination of metal and soft-touch materials.

A new 7.0" or 8.0" touchscreen or, in Kia-speak, an HMI (human-machine interface) can be fitted. Kia says its Sportage will be available with a new wireless charger for mobile devices.

Found at the base of the central instrument stack, the 5W charging system activates when a compatible device is placed on the pad, and can warns owners if they’ve left their phone on the charger when exiting the vehicle.

Other highlights include a powered tailgate (opens automatically when the driver approaches the boot) and cornering headlights (follows the curve of the the road for greater visibility).

ENGINES

The new Sportage should receive an improved 100kW 1.6-litre CRDi as well as a 141kW R-Engine for the diesel line-up, while the petrol units will boast new 100kW 1.2-litre T-GDi, an upgraded 150kW 1.6-litre unit as well as a 182kW 2-litre T-GDi.

A seven-speed dual clutch transmission will also be offered at launch.

NEW INTERIOR: Kia has redesigned its Sportage interior throughout with new material and technology. Image: KIA

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