The 2023 Kia Sportage Debuts with All-New Features

Kia’s longest-running nameplate undergoes its largest transformation to date. The Sportage, which pioneered its segment, enters its fifth generation with a larger, more capable, and more fuel-efficient build. The compact SUV also debuts with a number of Sportage firsts including an available dual panoramic digital display. 

The 2023 Kia Sportage will arrive in showrooms early 2022 in six trims  — EX, SX, SX Prestige, X-Line, X-Pro, and X-Pro Prestige. The first four grades ship with front-wheel drive, with an all-wheel-drive (AWD) configuration available, while the X-Line, X-Pro, and X-Pro Prestige come standard with AWD.

2023 Kia Sportage Overview: What’s New? 

Resigned inside and out, the 2023 Sportage features a reimagined look and upgrades throughout. Most notably, the Sportage has gone from one of the smallest SUVs in its class to the largest. This change separates it from the hot-selling Kia Seltos, while also defining its prowess in its respective category. 

Under the hood, the SUV sports a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder base engine making 187 horsepower. The old 6-speed transmission has been upgraded to an 8-speed unit to deliver smoother power at all speeds. Following in the footsteps of the Kia Sorento, the Sportage will also be available in a hybrid model, though details have yet to be unveiled. 

Similarly, pricing on the 2023 Sportage has not yet been revealed. Compared to last year, the 2022 LX starts at an MSRP of $24,090 and maxes out at $35,250 for the SX Turbo. Though the price will likely bump to reflect the boost in size and power, it is not expected to rise much. 

Bigger, Bolder Exterior

Larger than its predecessors, the 2023 Sportage packs on an additional 7.1 inches of length and is slightly taller and wider. This bigger, more rugged build is complemented by a series of contrasting elements. Bearing Kia’s new “Opposites United” design philosophy, the Sportage has smooth, soft surfaces that are offset by its new angular fenders, tiger nose grille, and distinct “boomerang” daytime running lights. In the back, the 2023 Sportage features new taillights and blacked-out roof pillars. 

Comfortable, Connected Interior

Inspired by luxury outdoor furniture and architecture, the Sportage’s interior is modern and filled with thoughtful features. Entering the vehicle, drivers are greeted by a futuristic cabin with its available dual panoramic curved digital display. Taking a page from Mercedes-Benz, the two screens seamlessly connect to form a single 25-inch cohesive unit. Real stitching and detailed pattern on the seats further create a sense of luxury, along with available vegan leather on the EX and above. 

Along with its dozen technology upgrades, the Sportage also gets a healthy boost in interior room. Now offering best-in-class rear legroom, passengers can enjoy a relaxing space where they can feel good about kicking back. Similarly, the new Sportage offers class-leading rear cargo capacity with 39.6 cu-ft. of space and a dual-level cargo floor. 

Tech & Safety Features

To match its high-tech interior, the 2023 Sportage ships with a plethora of standard and available infotainment features. Some of these include: 

• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Touchpad for climate and audio controls
• Multi-connection Bluetooth
• Personalized profiles to remember climate and infotainment preferences
• Available 360-degree Surround-View Monitor with 3D view 
• Available Harman Kardon premium audio system
• Available wireless smartphone charging
• Available Wi-Fi Hotspot to connect up to 5 devices to 4G LTE-based internet
• Available stolen vehicle tracking and immobilization capabilities with Kia Connect

Along with the listed technology upgrades are a strong array of safety features. To name a few there is; reverse parking distance warning, which warns the driver when there is an object behind the vehicle, forward collision avoidance, lane keep assist, and automatic high beams. 

Additionally, drivers have the option of adding Highway Driving Assist, which combines adaptive cruise control with lane-centering technology. 

2023 Kia Sportage New Trim Levels

The Sportage offers a diverse lineup of trim levels delivering an option for every lifestyle. The lineage carries over with LX, EX, SX, SX-Prestige, and X-Line grades, while also adding all-new Sportage X-Pro and X-Pro Prestige trims. The two latter allow drivers to venture further into nature with off-road-ready features such as all-terrain tires, AWD, and higher ground clearance. 

Along with this, the X-line models add cosmetic upgrades, including raised roof rack rails and 19-inch wheels. On the X-Pro models, LED fog lights and available two-tone roofs are part of the package. At the top of the lineup is the 2023 Kia Sportage X-Pro Prestige, which adds ventilated front seats, an eight-way power front passenger seat, and standard LED projector headlights.

At the time of writing, the 2023 Kia Sportage is not yet available. It is expected to be available at United Kia Imperial in early 2022. To keep up to date with us, follow us on Instagram and Facebook. For all additional questions, please contact us.