Kia previews 2016 Sportage ahead of Frankfurt debut
Kia has released official teaser images of the fourth-generation Sportage, revealing new design details before its unveiling at the 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show.
Kia has released the first official teaser images of the 2016 Sportage, confirming the fourth-generation compact SUV will make its world debut at the 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show in September. The teasers reveal a sharper exterior and a revised cabin, hinting at a more upmarket approach for Kia’s best-selling European model.
The new Sportage adopts a more sculpted look, with a lower and wider front grille, known as the 'tiger nose', now set lower in the bumper. The headlights are reshaped and positioned higher, separated from the grille, and incorporate LED daytime running lights within the cluster. At the rear, the taillights appear slimmer and more angular, joined by a chrome strip, while a roof-mounted spoiler and underbody protection signal a sportier, more robust stance.
Inside, the teasers show a cabin influenced by Kia’s larger Sorento and the latest Optima. The dashboard is more horizontal, featuring a large touchscreen display, a flat-bottomed steering wheel, and a prominent centre armrest. Body-hugging seats and red ambient lighting suggest a focus on comfort and style. The images also confirm the presence of automatic transmission and new switchgear, though further details on equipment and technology will be revealed at the show.
Design changes from the outgoing model
- Lower-set, wider front grille compared to the previous generation
- Headlights now separated from the grille and moved higher
- LED daytime running lights integrated into the headlight cluster
- Slimmer, more angular taillights with a connecting chrome strip
- Cabin layout inspired by Sorento and Optima, with a larger touchscreen
Kia has not released technical specifications or engine options for the new Sportage at this stage. The company is expected to confirm powertrains, trim levels and UK pricing during the Frankfurt Motor Show. Sales are set to begin before the end of 2015, following the model’s public debut.
The Sportage is a key model for Kia in Europe, competing with rivals such as the Hyundai Tucson and Nissan Qashqai. The move to a more premium design and improved interior features reflects Kia’s intent to strengthen its position in the crowded compact SUV segment.
For more on Kia’s current SUV and crossover range, see the 2011 Kia Sportage’s recognition as Best New Crossover by About.com readers:2011 Kia Sportage Named Best New Crossover by About.com Readers
