Redesign Makes the 2022 Kia Sportage Look Totally Different
You are not going to recognize the compact crossover produced by the Korean carmaker. The 2022 Kia Sportage is something totally different from what we used to see. The small SUV is coming with a new look. Radical changes will make it eye-catching, while the new engine choices are stunning. Well, hybrid and plug-in hybrid is not confirmed for the US yet. But, after Asia and Europe, it is just a matter of time when will these become available in the major automotive market in the world. After the initial success, Kia doesn’t want drawbacks in the USA.
The all-new crossover was expected as the 2021 YM. However, this was just a rumor, which might come true eventually. But, the COVID-19 pandemic slowed down the development and delayed the arrival. Well, it gave extra time to designers and engineers. A lot of job is done, but the 2022 Kia Sportage is not finished yet. The final stages of testing are ongoing, according to spy photos. The final product will be a competitive crossover that might take on the class leaders – Honda CR-V, Nissan Rogue, Ford Escape, Toyota Rav4, Chevy Equinox.
2022 Kia Sportage Hybrid and PHEV Models to be Added
European customers are already saving for a greener Sportage. There will be two breeds of hybrid engines available. This doesn’t mean the conventional unit is about to be dropped. But, oil-burners are the history, now not only in some markets.
The base hybrid is based on a 1.6-liter petrol engine. A combination of the gasoline unit and electric support will result in power enhancement. The 2022 Kia Sportage hybrid will be ready to produce 225 horsepower, which is more than enough for the compact vehicle. The carmaker is not unveiling the mileage, but be sure that the mpg rating will be close to 40. A six-speed automatic transmission will be a power router. Interesting detail: Kia bosses said it sends power to all wheels, not mentioning the alternative.
A PHEV system is downgrading power output to 177 hp. This means only one thing – buyers could get stunning gas mileage of this configuration. It is also based on a 1.6-l gasoline mill. Also, the plug-in setup is going to allow the 2022 Kia Sportage to run by using the power from a 13.8-kWh electric battery. The range of the Sportage PHEV is going to be between 28-30 miles. The company still needs to make updates on the recharging system, precise gas mileage, and prices.
Standard Drivetrains: Petrol Unit Remains the Same, Kia is Dropping Diesel Engines
An oil-burner was never part of the lineup in the US. In Asia and Europe, 1.7 and 2.0 diesel units were more popular than the petrol engines. However, the company is leaving them behind to deliver environmental-friendlier vehicles. Diesel drivetrains were offering a better gas mileage, but hybrid systems will replace it and deliver even better outputs. On the other hand, drivers will miss the crispy acceleration thanks to a higher torque.
A 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine with 180 hp and 175 lb-ft perfectly fits into the compact crossover world. We might see it with slightly more power. Nevertheless, if you are after a sportier ride, then 240 ponies from the Sportage Turbo should do the job. A 2.0-liter turbocharged engine is going to deliver 260 lb-ft as well. Both units are mated to a six-speed auto gearbox. The FWD is standard. All-wheel drive provides extra balance and traction, but it will cost you some miles in the MPG rating.
2022 Kia Sportage Redesign Details: Spy Photos and Insider Information
The compact crossover is not going to be easy to recognize once its redesign is finished. A few teaser images caused a lot of interest. The new look will make the 2022 Kia Sportage more aggressive than ever. What’s more intriguing – the design language can’t be compared to any other Kia vehicle. The front fascia is drawing attention with sloped styling. The grille is bigger than ever, headlights are fat, and there are the DRLs with the standout design completing the facelift.
The side of the crossover is also more aggressive thanks to the rear window on the pillars. The overall styling is sleeker thanks to a fresh set of wheels and the revisited fenders. Designers were not experimenting too much at the back, where a more conventional look was kept. Still, the revisit of a bumper, rear lights, and exhaust will make this part of the 2022 Kia Sportage interesting and bolder as well.
Interior
Kia is ready to take the offer to the new level inside the cockpit as well. While the exterior is all-new, the interior will find inspiration in the latest Sorento SUV. It is evident that the Korean company is raising the level of quality for the cabin materials. Some rumors are even mentioning the new infotainment system, with autonomous drive, artificial-intelligence services, and fully digital dashboard at higher trim levels.
Source: Carscoops
