When you have to compete with super-popular crossovers like Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V, you have to be ready for constant updates. Therefore, we are not surprised to see 2020 Kia Sportage with a bunch of updates, even though the current generation has been introduced just a couple of years ago. This update is pretty generous in terms of novelties. The fresh model brings novelties in various aspects. Of course, the focus is on the styling, so there are some interesting novelties on both ends of the vehicle. On the other side, the interior hasn’t come with too many novelties, at least in terms of the design. On the other side, there are numerous additions in terms of standard features, particularly in terms of tech goodies. The company put the focus on lower trim levels, which are now equipped fairly well. Under the hood, things remained pretty much the same.
2020 Kia Sportage Design
There is no doubt that the most notable 2020 Kia Sportage changes are those in terms of the styling. There is a fine amount of novelties, on both ends of the vehicle. Of course, those at the front are more prominent. You can easily notice a slightly revised front face, which comes with a little bit reshaped front fascia, as well as with revised bumper, which now comes with a new silver skid plate, which makes this small crossover look more off-road capable than before. Also, there are some slight revisions on headlights, fog lights etc. On the other end, some subtle changes are also notable. Finally, there are new sets of alloy wheels, which go in a range from 17 to 19 inches, depending on the trim level you choose. Interestingly, there are no novelties in terms of 2020 Kia Sportage colors. The list of available finishes is the same as for the previous year, which means the following options – Black Cherry, Snow White Pearl, Steel Gray. Sparkling Silver, Hyper Red, Burnished Copper and Pacific Blue.
Interior
The Kia Sportage 2020 facelift hasn’t brought many novelties on the inside. The cabin is essentially the same, which definitely isn’t a bad thing, considering that the previous year models were characterized by a pretty good overall quality, with a nice dashboard layout and a pretty decent amount of legroom and overall space. Therefore, the company decided to focus rather on new features that some visual tweaks. The result is a long list of standard equipment, already in most basic models. For example, all models now come with an 8-inch touchscreen, which isn’t the case with most competitors. Also, there is a long list of new safety features, including adaptive cruise control.
Trim Levels
The trim level organization remains the same, so there are four trim levels – LX, S, EX and SX Turbo.
As we already mentioned, an 8-inch touchscreen is now standard already in the LX model. This version also comes with standard features like automatic headlights, LED daytime running lights, selectable drive modes, Bluetooth etc.
The S trim adds a few interesting upgrades. Some of the highlights, foglights, roof rails, heated and power-folding mirrors. Also, there are some interesting interior features like Sofino simulated-leather upholstery, flat-bottomed steering wheel, paddle shifters etc.
The 2020 Kia Sportage EX will remain the first choice for most drivers. It is a well-balanced version, which comes standard with goodies like 18-inch wheels, roof rails, a hands-free tailgate, keyless entry and ignition, leather upholstery, leather-wrapped steering wheel etc.
Finally, there is the SX Turbo trim level, which comes with a turbo-four engine and several other upgrades. It features sport-tuned suspension and brakes, dual exhaust pipes, LED headlights, upgraded instrument cluster etc.
2020 Kia Sportage Engines
Under the hood, the 2020 Kia Sportage continues in the same way. Base models feature a familiar 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, which is good for about 180 horsepower and 175 pound-feet of torque. If you prefer something peppier, you can opt for a 2.0-liter turbo-four engine, which delivers around 240 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. Both engines come with a six-speed manual gearbox, which sends power to front wheels. With the turbo engine, you can also opt for all-wheel drive, but keep in mind that, just like previous year models, the 2020 Kia Sportage AWD also drops max output for a couple of ponies. When it comes to fuel economy, base models return around 23 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway.
2020 Kia Sportage Release Date and Price
When it comes to the 2020 Kia Sportage release date, the new model is already available on most markets. The base price goes around 24.000 dollars, while the best-equipped versions could go all-away up to 35.000 dollars. Some of the competitors are models like Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Mazda CX-5, Ford Escape etc.