Kia has just unveiled the facelifted 2025 Kia Sportage, and it’s clear the popular mid-size SUV is ready to raise the bar. Offering more tech, a revised drivetrain, and a refreshed design, the 2025 Sportage promises to deliver a more refined driving experience. This mid-life update is expected to hit Australian showrooms in the second quarter of 2025, with pricing to be confirmed closer to launch.
Fresh Styling
At first glance, the updated Sportage’s styling is more aggressive and modern, borrowing cues from Kia’s latest models, including the EV9 and the facelifted Sorento. The front end now features more horizontal, detailed headlights, complemented by a redesigned front bumper. New wheel options (ranging from 17 to 19 inches) and a redesigned rear end with updated taillights add to the SUV’s more dynamic look. There’s also a new X-Line trim, which includes a rugged body kit for those who want a sportier, off-road-ready appearance.
Interior Upgrades
Inside, Kia has upgraded the cabin with a more premium feel. The 2025 Sportage now comes with a suede headliner, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and even fingerprint recognition to switch between driver profiles. The updated infotainment system supports over-the-air updates, keeping the vehicle’s software current without a visit to the dealership. Continuing from the previous model are the dual 12.3-inch screens in the dashboard, along with the shift-by-wire gear selector. Also new are slimmer air vents and a touch-sensitive steering wheel for a cleaner, more intuitive layout.
Enhanced Safety Features
Kia has also ramped up the Sportage’s safety tech. New additions to the 2025 model include lane-change assist, a driver monitoring system, an upgraded autonomous emergency braking (AEB) system, and virtual key compatibility via the Kia app. Augmented reality satellite navigation and auto-dipping exterior mirrors are also now standard. With these updates, the Sportage remains a strong contender in the competitive mid-size SUV segment, offering a comprehensive suite of advanced safety features.
Powertrain and Performance
Under the bonnet, the 2025 Kia Sportage retains the 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine from the previous model, delivering 132 kW of power and 265 Nm of torque. However, Kia has swapped out the old seven-speed dual-clutch transmission for a new eight-speed torque-converter automatic. This change promises smoother gear shifts and less jerking when starting from a standstill.
For those seeking better fuel efficiency, the hybrid (HEV) option remains in the lineup. The 1.6-litre turbocharged engine is paired with a 1.49 kWh battery, and the hybrid now produces 172 kW of power—up from 169 kW in the previous version. Torque figures have yet to be released, but the updated powertrain should offer more performance with improved efficiency.
Australian specifications for the 2025 Sportage are still under wraps, so it remains to be seen whether the naturally aspirated 2.0-litre petrol engine and 2.0-litre turbo-diesel option will make a return. We’re hopeful that at least the diesel engine will be available locally. Additionally, a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) version is available in other markets and could potentially make its way to Australia.
A Quieter, More Refined Ride
Kia has made significant efforts to improve ride comfort and cabin refinement in the 2025 Sportage. The new model features more sound insulation and a two-way front damper setup, contributing to a quieter, more composed driving experience.
When Can We Expect the 2025 Kia Sportage?
The 2025 Kia Sportage is set to launch in Australia in the second quarter of 2025. Pricing and full specifications will be revealed closer to the release date. Keep an eye on DiscoverAuto for the latest updates and reviews.
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