Yahoo Autos 2026 Kia Sportage Facelift Makes the Compact SUV Look More Normal
The 2026 Kia Sportage is set to get a mid-cycle refresh, as previewed by the new model sold in Korea.
Along with a restyled front end that now looks more like other Kia models, the Sportage gets a new steering wheel and a revised dash.
Kia also gives the Sportage desirable tech upgrades, from a head-up display to remote parking assist to Highway Driving Assist 2.
Distinctive styling is one way to stand out in a segment as crowded as compact SUVs. While the current Kia Sportage definitely has a design that attracts attention, polarizing rarely means popular. Regardless of how you think the Sportage looks, Kia will replace its face with something that’s more normal. The mid-cycle refresh that’s expected to debut for the 2026 model year will also see its appearance more closely align with the company’s latest lineup.
Previewed by the new Kia Sportage that’s on sale in Korea, the version that’s coming to the United States will adopt a larger grille that’s more upright and bookended by vertical daytime running lights. The front bumper has also been redesigned with a squared-off air intake. The rugged X-Line trim has a unique grille mesh and a front bumper that adds blockier elements with built-in fog lights.
Inside, the Sportage receives an updated dashboard that ditches the vertical air vents and introduces a new panoramic display. It features Kia’s latest infotainment system, which includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as well as over-the-air updates. There’s a new steering wheel too, with top and bottom sections that have flat edges. The Korean model also adds a host of desirable upgrades, including a fingerprint-authentication system, a head-up display, Highway Driving Assist 2 with a lane-changing capability, and remote parking assist.
While Kia hasn't officially said anything about updating the U.S.-bound 2026 Sportage, we expect details to come out in the not-too-distant future, possibly at the L.A. auto show later this month. Currently, the 2025 Sportage and Sportage Hybrid start at $28,565 and $29,965, respectively. So expect those prices to rise slightly.
You Might Also Like
