The 2026 Kia Sportage Hybrid receives its most comprehensive update since the fifth-generation launch, with improvements spanning exterior design, in-cabin displays, ADAS, and on-road performance. The 2026 Kia Sportage Hybrid starts at $30,290, delivers 232 horsepower, and returns up to 42 mpg with front-wheel drive or 35 mpg with all-wheel drive.
Redesigned exterior and upgraded cabin
The exterior adopts Kia’s Opposites United design philosophy with a new starmap lighting signature. Newly applied amber daytime running lights enhance urban presence, while the model retains its vertical headlamps and confident stance. Cleaner lines give the SUV a more refined appearance. Inside, an available 12.3-inch curved dual panoramic display supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A 10-inch head-up display is newly added on hybrid trims, and leather-and-suede seating surfaces elevate cabin feel.
Road test and driving impressions
A drive in the SX-Prestige model covered a roughly 120-mile round trip from Hollywood to Oxnard. The hybrid system’s electric motor and 1.6-liter turbo four-cylinder deliver quiet city operation and responsive highway acceleration. The suspension is firm; smaller bumps are tightly controlled while larger impacts are absorbed smoothly. Freeway straight-line stability is strong. At higher speeds, some noise and vibration were noted, and the brake tuning is sensitive, requiring brief acclimation.
Noise and vibration are reduced with double-laminated acoustic glass, added sound-absorbing and insulating materials, two-way dampers, and a reinforced suspension setup. These upgrades keep wind and road noise low and contribute to stable, composed handling.
Advanced tech and driver assistance
Software and connectivity advance with OTA over-the-air updates and a UWB digital key that integrates with smartphone wallet apps and enables key sharing by text. Driver-assist features include Highway Driving Assist 2, forward collision avoidance, a hands-on detection system, 360-degree surround view, and 3D monitoring, with Harman Kardon premium audio available by trim. With ADAS technology drawn from EV9, overall completeness is assessed as top-of-class.
Space, convenience, and digital features
Practicality remains a highlight. Rear legroom measures 41.3 inches, and cargo space reaches up to 39.5 cubic feet. A dual-level cargo floor is standard for flexible loading. Comfort and convenience features include rear heated seats, wireless phone charging, remote climate control through the Kia Connect app, smartwatch integration, in-car streaming, and customizable themes via the Kia Connect Store.
Trims, capability, and production
The facelift adds S and X-Line trims to the hybrid range. The X-Line includes Snow, Mud, and Sand drive modes for light off-road use. Production takes place at Gwangju, South Korea, and pricing begins at $30,290 for the LX Hybrid trim, rounding out the 2026 Kia Sportage Hybrid lineup.
BY HOONSIK WOO [woo.hoonsik@koreadaily.com]
