The 2026 Kia Sportage Hybrid will reach U.S. dealers later this year, with noticeable upgrades to the looks, interior and equipment. The gas version has just been launched starting at USD 28,690 (MSRP) as the first model in the rollout sequence for MY2026.
Recently, we got to spend time around the facelifted Kia Sportage Hybrid in the SX Prestige trim, and here’s what we found:
Design
The 2026 Kia Sportage Hybrid gets a sharper look with a new front end. It features boxy vertical headlamps with the Star Map light signature, amber DRLs, and a larger rectangular grille. The fog lamps now sit at the outer edges of the central intake. The front bumper is fully redesigned for an aggressive look.
From the side, changes are minimal except for new alloy wheels with geometric patterns, similar to Kia’s new EVs. At the rear, the Star Map signature extends to the tail lamps, and the bumper gets a cleaner, updated appearance to match the new face.
A silver trim line connects the headlamps, adding a touch of sophistication. The rear is similarly tidy, with simple lines and a premium look.
For MY2026, Kia America also introduces two new trims, the sporty ‘S’ and rugged ‘X-Line’, widening the model’s appeal. The S trim features dark alloy wheels, gloss-black accents, heated front seats, and a power driver’s seat. The X-Line offers a tougher look with exclusive gloss-black grille, bumpers, badging, and 19-inch black alloy wheels. This trim also features a smart power liftgate.
Interior & Features
Inside, Kia has refreshed the dashboard with dual 12.3-inch displays, eliminating the 8-inch screens. The new dash includes Kia’s latest Connected Car Navigation Cockpit system, with improved visuals and functionality. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto now come standard. For added convenience, Kia offers a 10-inch Head-Up Display, reducing distraction with navigation and essential driving data displayed clearly.
The X-Line trims offer tread-pattern stitching and synthetic leather seats. Heated rear seats join the list of creature comforts, beneficial during harsh winters. Power-folding mirrors with memory settings simplify adjustments for multiple drivers from the same household.
Safety has also received attention with advanced driver-assist technology. The 2026 model introduces upgraded Forward Collision Avoidance with Direct Oncoming Detection, Highway Driving Assist 2 with lane-change functionality, and enhanced parking sensors.
Experience in the 2026 Sportage Hybrid
For someone 5’8″, getting into the Sportage is simple. Inside, the driver’s seat is slightly firm but well-contoured. Ventilated and heated leather seats come standard, though the seat squab feels narrow. The “squircle” steering wheel carries the Kia logo off-center, and the drive selector feels somewhat plasticky.
The center console offers physical controls for HVAC and seating functions, two cup holders, a wireless charging pad, USB-C ports, and storage under the armrest. The twin-screen setup is large but not overwhelming.
Moving to the rear, headroom is fine, knee room is adequate for average-height adults, though passengers who are 6 feet tall can feel cramped, especially if someone of similar height is occupying the front seats. Rear seats recline and feature suede-like upper sections, which improve comfort. A panoramic roof adds light to the cabin, but only opens from the front. There’s a center armrest with small cup holders which improve practicality.
Specifications
The powertrain sees minor improvements. Kia’s 1.6-liter turbo hybrid engine, paired with an electric motor, now produces 231 hp, an increase of 4 hp. While modest, drivers should notice mild improvement in responsiveness on city streets and highways alike.
New digital capabilities are also on the menu. Available in the premium SX-Prestige trim, a Digital Key lets drivers unlock, start, and operate their Sportage Hybrid via smartphone or smartwatch. Additional Kia Connect features include remote vehicle start and integration with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, streamlining daily interactions.
Kia has enhanced the Sportage’s all-wheel-drive capability with a new Terrain Mode for MY26, featuring selectable Snow, Mud, and Sand settings. Drivers tackling conditions from snowy streets to muddy paths will find this option practical.
Pricing
With the U.S. government in discussion with Asian countries about import tariffs, the pricing of the 2026 Kia Sportage Hybrid remains uncertain. Since the electrified Sportage variants ship from South Korea, any changes in duties could affect final costs.
If current tariffs are rolled back, the 2026 Kia Sportage Hybrid is expected to start at around USD 29,000 for the Hybrid FWD, and max out at around USD 39,000 for the SX- Prestige AWD. With changes across the board, Kia has positioned the Sportage Hybrid strongly against new and future rivals such as the Forester Hybrid, next-gen RAV4 Hybrid, and the next-gen CX-5 Hybrid.
An automobile engineer by training, I’ve analyzed the global car market since 2005, with a keen focus on EVs since 2008. My journey in online automotive publishing spans 17 years, during which I have reviewed cutting-edge automotive technologies and interviewed leading global CEOs and vehicle developers.
