2025 Kia Sportage Unveiled with Fresh Updates

By Jeff Gibbs

Kia has revealed the refreshed 2025 Sportage SUV in Korea, ahead of its Australian debut, where it will compete with the Toyota RAV4, Mazda CX-5, Mitsubishi Outlander, and Hyundai Tucson. As Kia’s best-selling model in Australia, the updated Sportage showcases subtle yet impactful design changes and enhanced functionality.

Exterior and Interior Updates

The 2025 Sportage now features a black grille, hook-style headlights inspired by the EV9, and a redesigned front bumper, giving it a rugged, bold look. Inside, a new steering wheel complements the dual curved screens for multimedia and driver information. Kia’s over-the-air update capability ensures the vehicle’s tech remains current, while higher trims may include a head-up display.

Powertrain Improvements

Replacing the seven-speed dual-clutch automatic, the new eight-speed torque converter automatic offers smoother performance, addressing prior concerns. Engine options remain:

• 2.0L four-cylinder (115kW/192Nm)
• 1.6L turbo petrol (132kW/265Nm)
• Hybrid variant (169kW/350Nm)

While diesel is unconfirmed in Korea, it may still arrive in Australia, along with a base manual option.

Pricing and Arrival

Expected to arrive in Q2 2025, Australian pricing may slightly rise from the current starting point of $32,995 for the base model and $45,950 for the hybrid.

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