The 2026 Kia Sportage is here, and it’s making waves in the compact SUV market with its refreshed design, upgraded technology, and versatile powertrain options. As Kia’s best-selling vehicle in the U.S., the Sportage continues to attract buyers with its blend of style, practicality, and value. This article dives deep into the pricing, specifications, features, and performance of the 2026 Kia Sportage, including its gas, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid variants. Whether you’re a family looking for a spacious crossover or an adventurer seeking all-wheel-drive capability, the Sportage has something for everyone.
Pricing Overview
The 2026 Kia Sportage offers a range of trims to suit various budgets, with prices starting at an accessible point for a compact SUV packed with features. Below is a breakdown of the pricing for the non-hybrid (internal combustion engine, or ICE) models, including the $1,395 destination fee, as announced by Kia America. Note that hybrid and plug-in hybrid pricing is expected to be released closer to their launch in mid-2025.
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LX FWD: $30,085 (up $1,300 from 2025)
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EX FWD: $31,885 (up $1,000)
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SX FWD: $34,290 (up $1,300)
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SX Prestige FWD: $37,085
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X-Line AWD: $32,990
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X-Pro Prestige AWD: $40,985
In Australia, the Sportage range starts at AUD $37,990 before on-road costs, a $5,000 increase over the previous base model due to the discontinuation of the manual gearbox. Canadian pricing ranges from CAD $31,995 for the LX FWD to CAD $52,745 for the SX PHEV AWD. Prices exclude taxes, title, license fees, and dealer charges, which can vary by region.
The modest price increases reflect the Sportage’s mid-cycle refresh, which includes enhanced styling, more standard equipment, and advanced technology. Despite tariffs on imported parts, Kia has kept the price bump reasonable, partly because the Sportage is assembled in West Point, Georgia, for the U.S. market.
Trim Levels and Features
The 2026 Kia Sportage is available in six main trims for the gas-powered models: LX, EX, SX, SX Prestige, X-Line, and X-Pro Prestige. Hybrid and plug-in hybrid models introduce additional trims, such as the Hybrid X-Line and S Hybrid, with specific pricing to be confirmed. Here’s a closer look at what each trim offers.
LX ($30,085)
The entry-level LX is a value-packed option, featuring:
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2.5L 4-cylinder engine (187 hp, 178 lb-ft)
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8-speed automatic transmission
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Front-wheel drive (AWD optional for $1,800)
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12.3-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
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4.2-inch digital gauge display
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Cloth seats
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17-inch alloy wheels
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Keyless entry and push-button start
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Adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go
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Automatic emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection
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Lane-keeping assist and driver attention monitor
The LX provides a solid foundation for budget-conscious buyers, with tech and safety features that rival higher-priced competitors.
EX ($31,885)
Stepping up to the EX adds comfort and convenience:
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Heated front seats
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Power rear hatch
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Blind-spot monitoring
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Dual-zone automatic climate control
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Wireless smartphone charging
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Synthetic leather-trimmed seats
The EX is noted for offering the best value, balancing essential features with affordability.
SX ($34,290)
The SX trim enhances luxury and tech:
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Panoramic sunroof
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Harman Kardon 8-speaker audio system
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Advanced driver-assist features, including navigation-based adaptive cruise control
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19-inch wheels
This trim appeals to buyers seeking a premium experience without reaching top-tier pricing.
SX Prestige ($37,085)
The SX Prestige adds upscale touches:
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12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
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Ventilated front seats
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LED projector headlights
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360-degree camera system
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Remote Smart Parking Assist
It’s ideal for those who want a near-luxury SUV with cutting-edge tech.
X-Line AWD ($32,990)
The X-Line AWD trim emphasizes rugged styling:
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Unique front and rear bumpers with faux skid plates
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Gloss black exterior accents
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Roof rails
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19-inch wheels with all-season tires
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Terrain modes (Snow, Mud, Sand)
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Standard all-wheel drive
The X-Line is now available for the Sportage Hybrid, addressing a previous gap in the lineup.
X-Pro Prestige AWD ($40,985)
The top-tier X-Pro Prestige is the most off-road-ready:
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17-inch matte black wheels with BF Goodrich all-terrain tires
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LED foglights
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Heated windshield and wiper nozzles
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Two-tone color options
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Panoramic moonroof
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All X-Line features plus SX Prestige tech
With a towing capacity of up to 3,500 pounds (with an aftermarket trailer brake controller), it’s suited for light adventuring.
Powertrains and Performance
The 2026 Kia Sportage offers three powertrain options: gas, hybrid (HEV), and plug-in hybrid (PHEV). Each caters to different driving needs, from efficiency to performance.
Gas Engine
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Engine: 2.5L 4-cylinder
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Power: 187 hp, 178 lb-ft torque
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Transmission: 8-speed automatic
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Drivetrain: FWD standard, AWD optional
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Fuel Economy (EPA est.): 25/33/28 mpg (FWD); 24/30/26 mpg (AWD); 23/26/24 mpg (X-Pro Prestige AWD)
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Towing Capacity: Up to 3,500 pounds with trailer brake controller
The gas engine is adequate for daily driving but lacks the pep of rivals like the Mazda CX-5. Its fuel economy trails competitors like the Honda CR-V and Nissan Rogue.
Hybrid (HEV)
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Engine: 1.6L turbocharged 4-cylinder + 44-kW electric motor
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Power: 231 hp (up 4 hp from 2025), 258 lb-ft torque
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Transmission: 6-speed automatic
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Drivetrain: FWD or AWD
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Fuel Economy (2025 est.): 42/44 mpg (FWD); 38/38 mpg (AWD)
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Towing Capacity: Up to 1,900 pounds
The hybrid is the sweet spot for efficiency and performance, accelerating from 0-60 mph in 7.3 seconds, significantly quicker than the gas model. It’s a strong competitor to the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid and Honda CR-V Hybrid.
Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV)
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Engine: 1.6L turbocharged 4-cylinder + 72-kW electric motor
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Power: 268 hp (up 7 hp from 2025), 258 lb-ft torque
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Transmission: 6-speed automatic
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Drivetrain: AWD standard
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Electric Range: 34 miles
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Total Range: 430 miles
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Fuel Economy (2024 est.): 84 mpg-e (gas + electric)
The PHEV offers the most power and the ability to drive emission-free for short commutes. However, its electric range is outclassed by the Toyota RAV4 Prime.
Design and Styling
The 2026 Sportage undergoes a mid-cycle refresh, adopting Kia’s “Opposites United” design philosophy. The front fascia features a wider grille, vertical LED headlights, and amber daytime running lights, replacing the controversial boomerang-shaped lights of the 2025 model. The rear bumper and taillights are also revised, with new wheel designs ranging from 17 to 19 inches.
Inside, the cabin is modernized with:
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Dual 12.3-inch panoramic displays (standard across trims)
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A new flat-edged steering wheel
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Redesigned dashboard with horizontal air vents
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Available 10-inch head-up display
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Kia Connect services for remote start and vehicle monitoring
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Configurable cupholders and headrest hooks for practicality
The interior is spacious, offering 39.6 cu-ft of cargo space behind the rear seats and up to 74.1 cu-ft with seats folded. It rivals the Honda CR-V in roominess and outshines many compact SUVs.
Technology and Safety
The 2026 Sportage is tech-forward, with standard features including:
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Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
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Over-the-air software updates
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Dual rear USB-C ports
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Kia’s Digital Key 2.0 Premium (available)
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6-speaker audio (Harman Kardon 8-speaker system on higher trims)
Safety is a strong suit, with a 5-star NHTSA rating expected to carry over. Standard safety features include:
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Automatic emergency braking with pedestrian/cyclist detection
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Active lane control
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Automatic high-beam LED headlights
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Rear cross-traffic collision avoidance (except LX)
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Front and rear parking sensors
Available features include an upgraded Highway Driving Assist with lane-change assist and a driver hand-detection system.
Warranty and Reliability
Kia’s industry-leading warranty enhances the Sportage’s appeal:
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Limited Warranty: 5 years/60,000 miles
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Powertrain Warranty: 10 years/100,000 miles
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Hybrid Battery Warranty (Australia): 7 years/150,000 km
The Sportage is expected to retain its five-star ANCAP safety rating, based on 2022 Euro NCAP tests. However, servicing costs in Australia are high, ranging from $3,344 to $4,502 over seven years.
Market Position and Competition
The Sportage competes in a crowded segment against the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Nissan Rogue, Mazda CX-5, and Hyundai Tucson. Its strengths include:
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Spacious and versatile interior
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Extensive standard tech and safety features
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Competitive pricing
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Strong warranty
However, its gas engine’s lackluster performance and fuel economy are drawbacks compared to rivals. The hybrid and PHEV models address these concerns, offering better efficiency and power.
Availability
The 2026 Kia Sportage gas models are on sale now in the U.S., with hybrid and PHEV variants arriving in the second quarter of 2025. In Australia, the updated range is already in showrooms. Check with local dealers for pricing and availability, as inventory may be limited for certain trims.
Looking Ahead
The 2026 Kia Sportage builds on its reputation as a stylish, tech-rich compact SUV with a refreshed design, enhanced features, and versatile powertrains. Starting at $30,085, it remains a compelling value despite modest price increases. The hybrid and plug-in hybrid models stand out for their efficiency and performance, while the gas model offers affordability and capability. With its spacious cabin, advanced safety tech, and unbeatable warranty, the Sportage is a top contender for families and adventurers alike. Visit kia.com to configure your Sportage and explore local offers.