What's the news?
It's midlife model facelift time for the fourth-generation Kia Sportage and, among the usual tweaks to the aesthetics and equipment levels, the Korean company has announced a mild-hybrid version.
Sadly, however, we won't be getting this electrically-augmented diesel Sportage here in Ireland, instead getting a sole 1.6-litre turbodiesel called the 'U3'. This replaces the old 1.7-litre common-rail direct injection (CRDi) engine and is the cleanest diesel Kia has yet made. It will come with either 115- or 136hp, the higher-powered model available with the option of all-wheel drive and a seven-speed double-clutch transmission.
Out of interest, the mild-hybrid will go under the banner 'EcoDynamics+' and it features a 2.0-litre 'R' diesel engine with a 48-volt electrical system that powers a 'Mild-Hybrid Starter-Generator' unit. This can reduce CO2 emissions by up to four per cent on the new Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicles Test Procedure (WLTP) and forms part of Kia's global powertrain electrification strategy, which sees the manufacturer offering hybrid, plug-in hybrid, battery-electric and 48-volt mild-hybrid technology across its entire model line-up. It aims to have launched 16 advanced powertrain by 2025, including five new hybrids, five plug-in hybrids, five battery-electric vehicles and, in 2020, a new fuel-cell electric vehicle.
Elsewhere, the Sportage gets new front and rear bumpers, with redesigned headlight and taillamp clusters to go with them. Fresh designs of alloy wheels can be found in 16-, 17- and 19-inch diameters, while there are five new body colours and some optional chrome trim/skid plates to choose from. Sportier GT-Line models receive gloss-black detailing.
Inside, Kia has fitted the Sportage's cabin with a new steering wheel and revised instrument cluster, while it will also offer a new black-and-grey two-tone upholstery. The company's latest advanced driving assistance systems, including Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go, an Around-View Monitor and Driver Attention Warning, will be offered, while Kia's latest infotainment set-up is displayed on seven- or eight-inch touchscreens, the latter of which is frameless.
Anything else?
Kia sold more than 131,000 examples of the Sportage in 2017, representing a quarter of the brand's total European sales. Customer deliveries will start in Q3 of this year, with Kia Ireland suggesting the facelifted 1.6-litre CRDi diesel Sportage should be with us in September.