While not a complete redesign, the 2026 Kia Sportage unveiled today at the Los Angeles Auto Show offers a series of updates focused on enhancing technology, performance, and design. New trims join the lineup, including the Sportage S Hybrid, and for the first time, the X-Line model is available with a hybrid powertrain.

The hybrid system gets a slight power increase of 4 horsepower, while the plug-in hybrid now produces 268 horsepower, a 7-horsepower improvement over the previous model. The base 2.5-litre engine remains unchanged at 187 horsepower.

Beyond its powertrain updates, the 2026 Sportage retains its class-leading rear legroom and cargo capacity, features that have historically made it a strong contender in the compact SUV segment. That said, it’s a competitive segment; only time will tell if Kia did enough to keep the Sportage front and centre in consumers’ minds.

Powertrain Options: Incremental Gains for Electrified Models

The 2026 Kia Sportage offers three engine configurations to provide choices for a wide range of drivers. The lineup starts with the 2.5-litre inline-four gasoline engine, which continues unchanged from the previous model. Delivering 187 horsepower through an 8-speed automatic transmission, this option is available with either front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD) and maintains a towing capacity of 3,500 pounds.

The hybrid (HEV) and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variants receive updates for 2026. The hybrid powertrain, which combines a 1.6-litre turbocharged engine with an electric motor, now produces 231 horsepower—an increase of 4 horsepower compared to last year. The plug-in hybrid gains a more significant boost, generating 268 horsepower, up seven from the outgoing model. Both electrified powertrains feature a 6-speed automatic transmission. The plug-in hybrid is available exclusively with AWD and has an all-electric driving range (to be announced), which is expected to improve slightly thanks to the updated system. Both hybrid models are rated to tow up to 2,000 pounds.

Kia Digital Key and New Available 10-Inch Head-Up Display

The 2026 Sportage incorporates notable advancements in connectivity and driver assistance. A dual 12.3-inch panoramic digital display now comes standard across all trims, integrating both the driver’s information cluster and the infotainment system. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, while higher trims add an available 10-inch head-up display (HUD) that provides critical driving information, including navigation and driver assistance alerts, directly in the driver’s line of sight.

Other new features include Kia’s Digital Key technology, which allows users to lock, unlock, and start the vehicle via a compatible smartphone, eliminating the need for a physical key fob. Over-the-air (OTA) updates are now supported, ensuring the latest software enhancements and features are seamlessly integrated without a dealership visit.

Kia’s Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) suite also sees enhancements. Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist gains new capabilities, including Direct Oncoming Detection and Avoidance. Highway Driving Assist 2 (HDA2) is available on higher trims, offering semi-autonomous lane-changing functionality and adaptive steering. Additional features like Front/Side/Rear Parking Distance Warning and a 360-degree Surround View Monitor enhance safety and parking ease.

Design Updates

The 2026 Sportage’s exterior design is updated with Kia’s “Opposites United” philosophy, blending rugged elements with modern aesthetics. Both the front and rear fascias have been revised, now featuring Kia’s LED “Star Map” lighting design, amber daytime running lights (DRLs), and updated taillights. X-Line and X-Pro trims offer unique styling elements, such as skid plate-shaped mouldings and gloss black accents. These trims emphasize off-road capability, with the X-Pro Prestige including BFGoodrich all-terrain tires, 17-inch matte black wheels, and a heated windshield. Available wheel designs range from 17-inch to 19-inch alloys, depending on the trim. The Sportage continues to offer a raised roof rack on select models, catering to buyers with an active lifestyle.

Cargo space remains a strong point for the Sportage, offering up to 39.6 cubic feet of storage (1,100 litres) behind the second row. The dual-level cargo floor, standard on ICE and HEV models, adds further flexibility for loading gear or groceries. Rear legroom is an impressive 41.3 inches and remains a benchmark for the segment.

New Trims and Packages

The 2026 Sportage lineup introduces new trims for the U.S. market. While it has not yet been confirmed whether we will also see these trims in Canada, the new S Hybrid trim adds features like heated front seats, a power driver’s seat, and Blind Spot Collision Warning. The X-Line Hybrid, a first for Kia, combines rugged styling with hybrid efficiency, adding a panoramic sunroof, 19-inch wheels, and a smart power liftgate.

Additionally, the LX Convenience Package and X-Line Technology Package bundle features like a Surround View Monitor, memory settings for the driver’s seat and mirrors, and premium audio upgrades, offering more personalization for buyers.

Conclusion

The 2026 Kia Sportage’s new technology should give it a boost with consumers, especially considering that its main selling points – a very spacious interior and multiple engine options – remain unchanged. While pricing for the 2026 Sportage in Canada hasn’t been confirmed, it should continue offering impressive value. The model is expected to arrive in dealerships in mid-2025.