The best-selling Sportage has been given a major refresh for the 2023 model year, and the many improvements should keep it at the head of the compact SUV pack.

Stylish Looks, Strong Road Presence

The Sportage might be compact in size, but its exterior design makes a strong impact. Its chunky front end, sleek lines, and sculpted paneling conspire to create both class and confidence. The available 19-inch alloy wheels add to the sports appeal and bring off-road adventuring into the mix, while flourishes, including an integrated rear spoiler and gloss black front grille, round off the dynamic and assertive profile.

But the Sportage’s design is about more than great looks. The generous trunk space and 60/40 folding rear seats combine to offer a maximum of 2,098L of cargo space, and if that’s not enough, the Sportage can also haul up to 1,136kg in trailer weight when equipped with a suitable hitch.

Capable Power Under the Hood

Every model in the regular Sportage lineup is based around the same engine design, comprising a powerful 2.5L four-cylinder mill making a healthy 187 horsepower and 178lb-ft of torque. The considerable output is passed through an eight-speed automatic transmission to either front-wheel or all-wheel drive, delivering sprightly performance at a frugal fuel economy as low as 8.4L / 100km combined.

Upscale Interior, Advanced Infotainment Technology

Kia vehicles are famed for providing plenty of high-end features even at the lower trim levels, and the Sportage doesn’t stray from this successful formula. Heated front seats are standard, setting an impressive foundation of comfort to build on, with higher trims adding air-cooled front seats, heated rear seats, synthetic leather upholstery, and a heated, leather-wrapped steering wheel.

Every Sportage is supplied with a touchscreen display for accessing the infotainment and climate control functions, measuring 8 inches at the entry level and rising to a huge 12.3-inch unit with navigation higher up the range. Extra display real estate is provided by a 4.2-inch LCD/TFT instrument cluster as standard, with a 12.3-inch upgrade available, both displaying essential driving data in crystal-clear high resolution.

Smartphone integration is handled by Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, supported by Bluetooth connectivity and a wireless device charging pad for cord-free convenience. Lastly, the available Kia Connect system allows remote control of engine ignition, cabin temperature, and more via a dedicated smartphone app, adding an extra layer of convenience to your morning starts.

Cutting-Edge Active Safety and Driver Assist

The high level of technology continues with the generous suite of active safety and driver-assist features supplied with every 2023 Sportage, helping to make your driving as safe and incident-free as possible. Key standard and available features include:

• Forward collision avoidance with junction turning awareness
• Lane-keep and lane-follow assist
• Front and rear parking sensors with collision avoidance assist
• Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alerts
• Surround-view monitor with a 360-degree bird’s-eye view

Experience the 2023 Kia Sportage Today

With the 2023 update, Kia has ensured that the Sportage will stay at the head of the compact crossover pack, providing a tempting mix of power, comfort, and technology at a highly affordable price. To explore its excellent features for yourself, please book a test drive by clicking the button below.

Please Note: The details of this article were accurate at the time it was written. Manufacturers may change the details of any vehicle’s specifications at any time without notice.