There are some significant changes happening to the new 2023 Kia Sportage. Although it has been designed as a compact SUV, the vehicle is getting a touch-up that will make it quite different from the previous models. The upcoming 2023 model would be the fifth generation of the Sportage, which means that significant updates and changes are due. Rumor has it that the exterior design would make the Sportage different from the previous models. On the inside, there would be a massive touchscreen so the interior would have more modern vibe and styling. In short, the combination of exterior updates and modern interior would improve the new feel and comfort of the new Sportage.
The New (Expected) Updates
In terms of size, the new Sportage would be bigger than the last one. It would be a bit wider and taller, thanks to the extra 7.1 inches in length. There would be new exterior layout and design on the rear and front. Powertrain would also increase with four cylinder unit with 2.5 liter capacity, and the pair up with auto 8 speed transmission. If you go with the all wheel driving system, you can enjoy the extra ground clearance up to 1.5 inches.
The changes aren’t only happening on the exterior area as the interior cabin is getting the same touch-up. The cabin will get a revamped style with new shifter, center console, air vents, and also dashboard. Comfort is improved, thanks to the increased cargo capacity and legroom on the rear area. Technologies would be the main focus on the cabin, with blind-spot (view) monitor, a camera with 360 degree view, WiFi hotspot, and also 12.3 inch dual curved display screens. There would be new trims for the 2023 Kia Sportage, including X-Pro, X-Pro Line, and also X-Pro Prestige.
Exterior Design
It’s safe to say that the new exterior look is bolder and more stylish. When compared to other compact SUVs, the new Sportage would definitely stand out. The new design would come with black and wide griller and matching sleeker headlights. On the rear end, there would be blacked out roof pillars that will deliver somewhat sportier feel. New taillights would also be available, among other things that haven’t been revealed by Kia
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Powertrain and Performance
The new unit would be coming with four cylinder engine with 2.5 liter capacity, able to churn off 187 hp. This is an improved power, around 6 hp, from the previous model. The previous model had auto 6 speed transmission, while the new one would have the auto 8 speed arrangement. There would be front wheel as well as all wheel driving system, with improved (and better) fuel economy. If it goes as planned, then it would have 23 mpg for the city and 30 mpg for the highway.
There is a possibility of hybrid system, but Kia hasn’t said anything about it. But it is possible that the hybrid variants of the Sportage would be similar to those of Hyundai Tucson. Whether it’s true or not, we’ll just see.
Release Date and Price
For the release date, it’s possible that the new Sportage would be available early in 2022 as the 2023 model. For the price, it depends on the trim.
Be advised that the price tag is only prediction as Kia hasn’t released their official announcement about the price. The basic LX would likely be available at around $26,000 while the higher one, the X-Line, would be around $29,000. The EX would likely be sold at around $30,000, while the SX is around $34,000. The X-Pro would be around $35,000, the SX-Prestige at around $37,000, and X-Pro Prestige as the highest trim would be set at around $38,000. But for further confirmation about 2023 Kia Sportage, we need to wait for confirmation from the company.
