2021 Kia Sportage Redesign, Changes, Engines, MPG
The current generation of this compact crossover has been around since 2015 and despite that the Korean manufacturer usually practices a short production cycle, it will remain in production for a couple of more years. The model has been refreshed recently. It gets updated styling, as well as a couple of novelties on the inside. All in all, it should remain fresh and competitive for some more time, which means that the 2021 Kia Sportage is about to carry on without more important changes.
Those are the expectations for the new model, but we also saw rendering photos of the new body style. On these images, the Sportage gets a coupe layout, in a manner of the premium crossover. However, this version won’t see the daylight, at least not in this production cycle. WE expect to see 2021 Kia Sportage release date scheduled for a typical time of year, which in this case means sometime near the end of 2020.
2021 Kia Sportage Design
In terms of base design characteristics, we definitely won’t see any particular change. Despite that some reports are suggesting 2021 Kia Sportage redesign, that doesn’t sound like, given the recent update. This was a typical mid-cycle refresh, which has brought a lot of novelties, particularly in terms of the styling. There is a new, lower grille, as well as a new bumper, headlights and more. All in all, the model looks quite attractive, and definitely feels like it can remain competitive for some more time. Therefore, the best we could see for the Kia Sportage 2021 model is an addition in terms of colors and new features.
Interior
The recent update has also brought a couple of interesting novelties on the inside. There is a new steering wheel, as well as a new touchscreen and color schemes. The rest of the cabin is pretty much the same, which isn’t a bad thing at all. This model features a pretty attractive interior design, which utilizes some pretty hi-quality materials and attractive aesthetics. Higher trims are even comparable with premium brands.
The cabin isn’t just good looking, but practical and functional as well. The Sportage is quite generous in terms of legroom and headroom. Both rows are comfortable and pleasant for long rides. Moreover, you can even count on a decent cargo volume. You can count on more than 30 cubic feet behind rear seats, while the overall capacity goes up to 60 cubic feet.
Features
Another thing we like very much about this crossover is a generous list of standard equipment. This particularly refers to tech features, as base models come standard with things like an 8-inch touch screen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, a six-speaker sound system, Bluetooth, and a USB port. Of course, you can get even more in higher trims. Some of the highlights are navigation system, wireless phone charging, a second USB port, a Harman Kardon eight-speaker sound system, satellite radio etc.
Things are also pretty good in terms of safety. Not only that this crossover gained five stars on the crash test, but also comes with a full load of safety features and advanced driver aids. When it comes to base models, you may count on things like a driver attention monitor, lane keep assist, lane departure warning, a rearview camera, automatic high beams, and a pre-collision warning and braking system with pedestrian detection. In higher trims, you can also get things like adaptive cruise control, parking sensors, blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.
2021 Kia Sportage Engines
The new Kia Sportage 2021 won’t feature changes under the hood. We count on a familiar engine offer, which includes both turbocharged and naturally-aspirated options. Base models are equipped with a 2.4-liter naturally-aspirated engine, which is good for about 181 horsepower. With such an amount of power, you may count on decent driving dynamics, especially if you’re not on a highway too often.
On the other side, those who prefer a little bit sportier ride can opt for a turbo-four unit. It is a familiar 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, which is good for about 240 horsepower. Driving dynamics are great and this version actually provides a lot of fun. Both engines come in pair with a six-speed automatic transmission.
Of course, this crossover has a couple of drawbacks and fuel economy is one of them. The base engine returns about 23 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway. The optional turbo-four returns about 20 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. In both cases, these are subpar ratings for the class.
2021 Kia Sportage Release Date and Price
Considering that there are no bigger changes, the 2021 Kia Sportage should be scheduled for the end of next year. When it comes to the price, the current model starts at around 24.000 dollars and we don’t expect bigger changes in the future. Key competitors are models like Nissan Rogue, Ford Escape, Honda CR-V etc.
