Kia Sportage 2026: five things to know
Launched three years ago, the fifth-generation Kia Sportage is receiving a significant update for the 2026 model year, as showcased at the Los Angeles and Montreal auto shows. It arrived at Canadian dealerships this spring, followed by the Sportage HEV (hybrid) in June. The Sportage PHEV (plug-in hybrid) will complete the trio this summer. Unsurprisingly, prices have increased.
The Car Guide will soon publish a road test. Until then, here are five things to know about the 2026 Kia Sportage:
1. It looks like a smaller Sorento
Still embodying a facet of Kia’s "Opposites United" design philosophy, the 2026 Sportage stands out with a style that is both more rugged and more modern, as evidenced by the redesigned bumpers.
It also adopts the signature visual feature characterized by the Star Map lighting, which can be seen on the latest Kia models, including the mid-size SUV Sorento. New 17-, 18-, and 19-inch alloy wheels complete the design package.
2. Long live wireless
Inside, the redesigned digital panel consists of two 12.3-inch screens and now offers wireless connectivity for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on all Sportage models. The Kia Connect feature is available on higher-end models, along with a new 10-inch head-up display.
New trims reduce fingerprints on the dashboard, center console, and door panels. Thanks to the standard smart key and push-button start, the driver can start their Sportage remotely and receive software updates to add new features (optional Digital Key 2.0). Finally, a wireless phone charger is integrated into the center console compartment.
3. 2026 Gasoline Sportage
The conventional Sportage is available in LX front-wheel drive, LX all-wheel drive, X-Line, EX, EX Premium, and X-Line Limited versions. The latter stands out with its unique bumpers and skid plate moldings, various black trims, exclusive 19-inch wheels, active all-wheel drive with Terrain mode (snow, mud, sand), and SynTex synthetic leather upholstery.
No changes for the naturally aspirated 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, which still produces 187 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque through an eight-speed automatic transmission. Its towing capacity reaches 2,500 lbs.
The prices are as follows (transport, preparation, and dealer fees of $2,699 extra):
- LX FWD: $31,995
- LX: $33,995
- X-Line: $37,745
- EX: $39,745
- EX Premium: $41,745
- X-Line Limited: $45,245
4. 2026 Sportage HEV (Hybrid)
The Sportage HEV is now offered in EX, EX Premium (new), and SX versions, all with all-wheel drive. Its hybrid powertrain uses a revised electric motor and a 1.6-liter turbocharged engine, increasing the power from 227 to 231 horsepower. The towing capacity in this case is 2,000 lbs.
The prices are as follows (transport, preparation, and dealer fees of $2,699 extra):
- EX: $41,245
- EX Premium: $44,245
- SX: $47,745
5. 2026 Sportage PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid)
Finally, the Sportage PHEV comes in three versions: EX (new), EX Premium, and SX. The same 1.6-liter turbo engine is used again, but the electric motor has increased power, bringing the total output from 261 to 268 horsepower. Once again, all-wheel drive is standard, and the towing capacity is 2,000 lbs. However, the 13.8 kWh high-voltage battery provides an electric-only range of 55 km (unchanged from 2025).
The prices are as follows (transport, preparation, and dealer fees of $2,699 extra):
- EX: $46,245
- EX Premium: $49,245
- SX: $52,745
The Sportage PHEV is eligible for a provincial rebate of $1,000 if registered in 2025, or $500 if registered in 2026. At the time of writing, the federal rebate remains suspended.
