2026 Kia Sportage loads up on new tech features
Published 10:00 pm Friday, January 23, 2026
The Kia Sportage compact SUV is freshened for 2026 with exterior styling revisions and a supply of compelling new tech features.
Sportage is offered in gas-powered (ICE), Turbo Hybrid (HEV), and Turbo Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) variants. I drove the top-level X-Pro Prestige trim of the Kia Sportage ICE model, which is available in five other trims: LX, EX, SX, SX-Prestige, and X-Line.
Pricing for the 2026 Kia Sportage ICE starts at $30,085 for the LX model with front-wheel drive. This figure includes the destination charge of $1,395.
Included in Sportage’s exterior design alterations are new front and rear bumpers and revised lighting. A stacked LED headlight design has optional cube-style projection. Daytime running lights have amber LED Star Map styling, Kia’s signature design language for the new Sportage, inspired by constellations in the night sky. Star Map design also appears on the new taillights.
New tech features revolve around infotainment, connectivity, and driver assistance systems.
Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are now standard on all trims. Close to 25 inches of display screen show a digital instrument cluster and all infotainment information.
Digital Key 2.0 is available for locking, unlocking and vehicle engine start, using a compatible smartphone or smartwatch. The Kia Connect system now enables over-the-air (OTA) updates. The infotainment system on some trims includes built-in YouTube access and games.
Driver assistance upgrades include enhanced autonomous driving, collision avoidance at intersections, and remote start parking assist.
X-Line and every AWD model have a new Terrain Mode for Snow, Mud, and Sand.
The ICE version isn’t the performance leader among all Kia Sportages; in fact, it’s the opposite. Power comes from a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine making 187 horsepower and 178 pound-feet of torque. Meanwhile, the hybrid models range from around 227 to 261 horsepower.
Sportage ICE does have the benefit of a lower purchase price. Overall, a Kia Sportage of any stripe provides lots of standard features for the money.
My X-Pro Prestige tester’s glory comes from its ability to handle more challenging off-highway adventures than the other models. For example, getting farther up a rugged logging road into the Cascades. It comes standard with all-wheel drive and is outfitted with supportive equipment.
Unchanged for 2026 are the impressive interior dimensions of the Sportage ICE, including a vast 41.3 inches of legroom for rear-seat passengers, and 39.6 cubic feet of room for cargo behind the second row.
2026 Kia Sportage ICE
Base Price: $39,590
Price as Driven: $42,055
