Test Drive Kia Sportage: Behind the Wheel of the New Korean Hybrid SUV

The fifth generation of Sportage is equipped with an innovative hybrid powertrain, combining internal combustion engine and electric motor. First drive impression of the high-end version of this Korean SUV.

The new Sportage changes everything: a technical platform allowing electrification, a completely redesigned style, and innovative technologies. Most sales are expected to come from this 230 hp hybrid version, an unprecedented power level for Kia. It is offered alongside a 150 hp mild hybrid gasoline version, a 136 hp mild hybrid diesel, and soon a 265 hp plug-in hybrid version arriving in a few weeks.

In short, it moves upmarket, and only retains the promised diesel from the previous model. Its prices are also set higher, reflecting improvements in quality and equipment. The Korean manufacturer would be wise not to hold back, as customers tend to prefer the higher-end versions. In 2021, the average price of Kia vehicles sold in France was around €32,000, which is an excellent level for a brand that also sells city cars, hatchbacks, and compacts. The Sportage lineup starts at €29,990 for the 150 hp petrol Active version, but our GT Line Premium hybrid is priced at €44,990. It’s worth noting that a 4×4 version is also available, topping the range for an additional €2,000.

A larger Sportage, especially inside

Clinging to none of the parts from the previous generation, both outside and inside, the new Kia SUV enhances quality, becomes more technological, but retains dimensions close enough to remain classified as a compact SUV.

It is only 3 cm longer (4.51 m) than its predecessor but improves its interior space thanks to its N3 platform, which combines electrified technologies with better interior layout. The wheelbase increases by only one centimeter, but the new interior design allows a different arrangement that frees up space both at the front and rear.

Its two-level trunk offers a capacity of 587 liters (1,776 liters with seats folded), with the hybrid system’s batteries stored under the bench. Interestingly, this volume surpasses that of the mild hybrid gasoline version (562 liters), and is especially larger than the old model, which offered 480 liters.

While the brand’s best-seller in 2021 was the Niro, the Sportage is expected to regain its position as Kia’s top-selling model in 2022.

A cabin designed for digital connectivity

Inside, it’s a true technological revolution. The Sportage features a double curved screen, with the right end oriented towards the driver. The left screen is dedicated to the instrument cluster, and the right to infotainment.

On this high-end GT Line Premium version, as well as on the Design trim, both screens are 12.3 inches each. Otherwise, the left screen is smaller. The right screen is touchscreen, responsive, and the graphics are high quality. Depending on the connection conditions, loading the profile at startup (two can be saved apart from an “guest” profile) can be more or less long, just like connected navigation calculation, which varies based on network quality.

The touch control strip below the screens can take two forms, switching between climate controls and comfort or entertainment functions at the push of a button. But the platform retains two rotary knobs for adjusting temperature and volume, enhancing ergonomics. Well done. You will also appreciate compatibility with Apple CarPlay and fast wireless charging (15 W), allowing you to listen to music or get directions without draining your smartphone’s battery.

More dynamic driving sensations

Let’s move on from the driving position, already mentioned, but still worth noting that it’s easy to find a good position, with greater ease behind the wheel compared to the previous generation. An opportunity to recall that this earlier model was not particularly exciting to drive because its suspension tuning made it feel a bit too placid.

But that was then. The new Sportage, besides adding a 230 hp hybrid system that gives it more punch, revisits its chassis connection. Changes in direction are better guided, and body roll is more contained. Nothing sporty because that’s not its purpose, but a welcome dynamism. However, the Sport mode is less suitable for the car, removing some of the smoothness that’s appreciated.

The Eco mode, the only other available setting, does a better job. It perhaps should have been called Normal, as the “eco” aspect is already implied by the hybrid system. The system is well balanced, with energy changes almost imperceptible. Such operation combined with excellent soundproofing makes the new Sportage a good travel companion, no matter the distance. In city driving, the size is not an issue, but a bit more steering feedback on country roads would be appreciated.

As always, lane keeping assist with lane departure warning can be somewhat intrusive, to say the least… It can be deactivated by long-pressing a button on the steering wheel.

The connected navigation system is particularly effective. It responds very quickly to traffic conditions and possible route errors, and above all, offers a display that’s outstanding, with automatic zooming that raises the view as it approaches intersections. Working in tandem with cruise control and traffic sign recognition, it also allows semi-autonomous mode adaptations based on speed limits. There’s no head-up display or augmented reality features, but the overall system is very well executed.

Finally, a real plus is the rear view display in the instrument cluster when turning on the indicator. This doesn’t replace looking in the mirror before changing lanes, but provides an extra check without turning your head.

Verdict

Kia successfully revamps the model that allowed it to conquer Europe. Still manufactured in Slovakia for the European market, it appears well-equipped to face highly competitive and numerous rivals. It still offers a seven-year warranty, which is a real advantage, but prices have also increased. While awaiting the arrival of the Niro, expected in summer, it should reclaim the top sales spot within the Kia range.