2023 Kia Sportage Unveiled With Spectacular New Style, Interior
Kia has just released the first official pictures and details of the next-generation Sportage, which will launch in global markets a few months from now. It’s expected to arrive in Canada next year as a 2023 model.
The Korean compact SUV sports a spectacular new design that’s mostly the result of the “Opposites United” design language introduced with the Kia EV6 electric crossover earlier this year.
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Cynics will say the Sportage’s sleeker and more angular silhouette looks like many other SUVs on the road right now, but it’s all about the details starting with the wide and elaborate front grille. The headlights are completely transformed, as well, and wrapped by eye-catching, boomerang-shaped daytime running lights.
The contrasting black roof panel is a Sportage first, while a chrome strip has been added to the beltline. In the rear, a significantly redesigned bumper sits below brand new taillights that create a sense of motion.
Just the same, the interior of the new Kia Sportage is seemingly light-years away from the outgoing model. Designers left no stones unturned. Of course, the focal point is the ultra-wide, curved display that combines the digital instruments and centre touchscreen (their exact dimensions are not yet specified).
The main physical controls have been revised for easier use. As you can see, the gear shifter gives way to a rotary dial, which is flanked by the start-stop button and multi-terrain selector. In the new X-Line trim (another Sportage first), customers can choose between a signature sage green or black seating, as well as bold quilting and black metal wood.
“With the all-new Sportage, we didn’t simply want to take one step forward but instead move on to a different level in the SUV class,” commented Karim Habib, Senior Vice President and Head of Global Design Center. “When you see the all-new Sportage in person, with its sleek but powerfully dynamic stance, and when you sit inside the detailed-oriented cabin with its beautifully detailed interior and first-class materials, you’ll see we have achieved those goals and set new benchmarks.”
He went on to say that this Sportage shows the future of Kia and its products, so look for similar design and features on more vehicles going forward.
Unfortunately, Kia did not provide any information about available powertrain options or improvements to the chassis. One or two hybrid variants could be offered, as is the case with the new Hyundai Tucson. Additional details about the 2023 Kia Sportage will be shared in the months to come, so keep watching this space.