2026 Kia Sportage: Five Things to Know
Launched three years ago, the fifth-generation Kia Sportage received a significant mid-cycle update for the 2026 model year, as we saw at the Los Angeles and Montreal auto shows months ago. It landed 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 gone up.
The Car Guide will soon have a full review to share. In the meantime, here are five things you need to know about the 2026 Kia Sportage:
1. Sorento Vibes
Still embodying Kia's "Opposites United" design philosophy, the 2026 Sportage stands out with a more robust and more modern appearance, as evidenced by the redesigned bumpers.
It also adopts the visual signature characterized by Star Map lighting, which can be seen on the latest Kia models including the Sorento midsize SUV. New 17-, 18- and 19-inch alloy wheels round out the main exterior changes.
2. Wireless FTW
Inside, the redesigned digital interface consists of two 12.3-inch screens and now enables wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity on all Sportage models. Kia Connect functionality is standard, while higher-end models add a new 10-inch head-up display.
New accent trims for instrument panel, centre console and door panels reduce fingerprint smudge. Standard Smart Key with push-button start offers remote start capability and supports OTA updates to introduce new features, while available Digital Key 2.0 Premium offers the ability to lock/unlock/start using smart devices without needing to carry a key fob. Elsewhere, a wireless charging pad is built inside the centre console’s upper tray.
3. 2026 Sportage
The conventional Sportage comes in LX FWD, LX, X-Line, EX, EX Premium and X-Line Limited trim levels. The last one boasts unique bumper and skid plate-shaped molding, various black accents, exclusive 19-inch wheels, active all-wheel drive with Terrain Mode (Snow, Mud, Sand) and SynTex synthetic leather-trimmed seats.
There are no changes to the naturally aspirated 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, which still develops 187 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque via an eight-speed automatic transmission. Maximum towing capacity is rated at 2,500 lbs.
Prices are as follows (excluding $2,699 freight, PDI and dealer fees):
- 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
The Sportage HEV is now offered in EX, EX Premium (new) and SX trim levels, with all-wheel drive as standard. Its hybrid powertrain uses a revised electric motor and a turbocharged 1.6-litre engine, increasing total system output from 227 to 231 horsepower. Towing capacity is 2,000 lbs.
Prices are as follows (excluding $2,699 freight, PDI and dealer fees):
- EX: $41,245
- EX Premium: $44,245
- SX: $47,745
5. 2026 Sportage PHEV
Finally, the Sportage PHEV comes in three trim levels: EX (new), EX Premium and SX. The same 1.6-litre turbo engine returns, except the electric motor gains power, increasing the total from 261 to 268 horsepower. Once again, all-wheel drive is standard and towing capacity stays at 2,000 lbs. However, the 13.8kWh high-voltage battery provides an electric range of 55 km (unchanged from 2025).
Prices are as follows (excluding $2,699 freight, PDI and dealer fees):
- EX PHEV: $46,245
- EX Premium PHEV: $49,245
- SX PHEV: $52,745
The Sportage PHEV used to qualify for a $2,500 federal rebate, but the Canadian government’s iZEV program was suspended on January 13 and still has not returned as we write these lines.