Kia Sportage - A Modern History

Published Date: 11th Jul 2023

Image of a Kia Sportage on the Open RoadThe Kia Sportage has been a popular choice for UK drivers for many years, and the all-new 2023 model is set to continue that tradition. With its amazing seven-year warranty, sleek design, efficient powertrains, and advanced features, the Sportage is a versatile and stylish SUV that is sure to turn heads.

The first Kia Sportage was introduced in 1994, and it quickly became a popular choice for drivers looking for a stylish and affordable SUV. The second generation of the Sportage was launched in 2004, and it featured a more modern design and a wider range of engine options. The third generation of the Sportage was introduced in 2010, and it brought with it a number of new features, including a panoramic sunroof and a blind spot monitoring system.

The fourth generation of the Kia Sportage was launched in 2015, and it featured a more refined design and a number of new technologies, including a head-up display and a lane departure warning system. The all-new 2023 Kia Sportage is the latest generation of this popular SUV, and it features a number of new features, including a plug-in hybrid powertrain and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster.

The Kia Sportage is a versatile and stylish SUV that is sure to appeal to a wide range of drivers. With its sleek design, efficient powertrains, and advanced features, the Sportage is a great choice for anyone looking for a modern and stylish SUV.

 

NEW CAR DEALS ON KIA SPORTAGE

 

Here are some of the key features of the all-new 2023 Kia Sportage:

 

  • Sleek and contemporary Tiger Nose design
  • Powerful and efficient hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains
  • Advanced features, including a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a head-up display
  • Spacious and comfortable interior
  • 7-year or 100,000-mile car warranty

 

Kia Sportage Key Milestones

 

First-generation Kia Sportage (1994-2004)

 

  • The first Kia Sportage was launched in the UK in 1994. It was a small SUV with a boxy design and a choice of petrol or diesel engines.
  • The Sportage was popular with buyers looking for an affordable and reliable SUV. It was also one of the first SUVs to be offered with a seven-year warranty, which helped to boost its appeal.

 

Second-generation Kia Sportage (2004-2010)

 

  • The second generation of the Sportage was launched in 2004. It was a larger and more modern SUV than the first generation, and it was offered with a wider range of engines, including a diesel hybrid.
  • The Sportage was also one of the first SUVs to be offered with a range of advanced safety features, such as electronic stability control and airbags. These features helped to make the Sportage one of the safest SUVs on the market.

 

Third-generation Kia Sportage (2010-2016)

 

  • The third generation of the Sportage was launched in 2010. It was a more refined and stylish SUV than the previous generations, and it offered a choice of petrol, diesel, and hybrid engines.
  • The Sportage was also one of the first SUVs to be offered with a touchscreen infotainment system. This system made it easier for drivers to control the car's features, and it helped to make the Sportage more user-friendly.

 

Fourth-generation (2016-present)

 

  • The fourth generation of the Sportage was launched in 2016. It is the most modern and advanced Sportage yet, offering a wide range of features, including a panoramic sunroof, a head-up display, and a lane departure warning system.
  • The Sportage is also one of the most fuel-efficient SUVs on the market. It is available with a choice of petrol, diesel, and hybrid engines, and it can achieve up to 57.6 mpg on the combined cycle.

 

The Kia Sportage has been popular among UK new car buyers for many years. It is a versatile and stylish SUV that offers a good balance of performance, economy, and features. The Sportage is also one of the most affordable SUVs on the market, which has helped to make it a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers.

The Sportage has also been praised for its safety features. Euro NCAP has awarded it a five-star safety rating, and is one of the safest SUVs on the market. This has helped to make the Sportage a popular choice for families with children.

The Kia Sportage is a great choice for anyone looking for a versatile, stylish, and affordable SUV, and it's a car that continues to set the standard in its class.

 

The Kia Sportage Success

 

The reasons why the Kia Sportage has been so successful in the UK new car market are as follows: 

 

  • Affordability: The Sportage is one of the most affordable SUVs on the market, which has helped to make it a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers.
  • Versatility: The Sportage is a versatile SUV that can be used for a variety of purposes, from commuting to school runs to weekend getaways.
  • Style: The Sportage is a stylish SUV that comes in a variety of colours and trim levels to suit different tastes.
  • Safety: The Sportage has been praised for its safety features and awarded a five-star safety rating by Euro NCAP.
  • Features: The Sportage is packed with features, including a touchscreen infotainment system, a panoramic sunroof, and a head-up display.
  • Reliability: Kia is known for its reliable cars, and the Sportage is no exception. The car has a good reputation for reliability, which has helped to make it a popular choice for buyers.

 

 Kia Sportage UK Sales Volumes by Year:

 

 

Kia Sportage 2023 Features & Specs

 

Kia Sportage Available Trims: 

 

 

Kia Sportage Engines: 

 

  • Petrol/Diesel Vehicles: 1.6 Turbocharged Petrol or 1.6 Diesel engines, 2WD Manual, 113 - 148 bhp.
  • Mild Hybrid Vehicles: 1.6 Turbocharged Petrol or 1.6 Diesel engines, All-wheel drive or 2WD, 7-speed DCT Automatic, Battery capacity: 48V, 134 or 148 bhp.
  • Electric Vehicles: 1.6 Turbocharged Petrol engine, All wheel drive or 2WD, 6-speed automatic, 1.49 kWh battery, Combined 226 bhp.

 

**Note** - Figures are provided for comparison purposes; only compare fuel consumption and CO₂ figures with other cars tested using the same technical procedures. These figures may not reflect real-life driving results. All vehicles are certified according to the World Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP).

 

The Future of the Kia Sportage

 

The future of the Kia Sportage in the UK looks promising as the model continues to evolve and adapt to changing market demands. With each new generation, Kia has consistently raised the bar in terms of design, technology, and efficiency. As electric and hybrid vehicles gain popularity, it is likely that Sportage will offer more eco-friendly powertrain options to cater to the growing demand for sustainable mobility. Furthermore, advancements in connectivity and driver-assistance features are expected to enhance the driving experience. With its reputation for reliability, value, customer satisfaction and an amazing Seven-Year Warranty, the Kia Sportage is poised to maintain its position as a popular choice in the UK SUV market.

 

Main Rivals to the Kia Sportage:

 

These are the Main Rivals to the Kia Sportage that you may wish to take a look at:

 

When it comes to SUVs, the market offers a variety of options to suit different preferences. Let's take a closer look at a selection of notable SUVs, including the Skoda Karoq, Nissan Qashqai, Ford Kuga, Hyundai Tucson, and Volkswagen Tiguan, and see how they stack up against the Kia Sportage.

 

 

Image of a New Skoda Karoq 2023 ModelSkoda Karoq: Offering excellent value for money, the Skoda Karoq is a versatile option that caters to various needs. It also provides the option of a spacious seven-seater configuration, making it an attractive choice for larger families or those requiring extra space.

Nissan Qashqai: The Nissan Qashqai has gained popularity as one of the best-selling SUVs in the UK and for good reason. Combining style, practicality, and affordability, the Qashqai offers a well-rounded package that appeals to a broad range of customers.

Ford Kuga: Known for its sporty handling and comfortable ride, the Ford Kuga is a popular contender in the mid-size SUV segment. It boasts an engaging driving experience and offers a compelling choice for those seeking performance and comfort.

Hyundai Tucson: As a close cousin to the Kia Sportage, the Hyundai Tucson shares many similarities, including a range of shared features. With four powertrain options, including hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants, the Tucson offers versatility and eco-friendly choices.

Volkswagen Tiguan: The Volkswagen Tiguan stands out as a premium SUV with exceptional build quality and refined characteristics. With a reputation for excellence, it offers advanced safety features and a touch of luxury in its segment.

 

When comparing these SUVs with the Kia Sportage, it's important to consider your individual needs and budget. All of these vehicles offer unique features and strengths, but if you're seeking a stylish, versatile, and safe SUV, the Kia Sportage is certainly a strong contender. Make an informed decision based on your preferences, and you'll find an SUV that perfectly suits your lifestyle. 

 

We have stock cars in some Kia Sportage models for immediate delivery. Alternatively, you can order the new 73 registration Plate for September delivery now - be quick, as physical Kia Sportage stock is limited!

 

 Learn more by clicking the link:  Kia Sportage New Car Deals

 

 

**Please note that Kia vehicle specifications, trim levels, options, and engines are subject to change anytime. Therefore, confirming the vehicle specification you are interested in when you purchase is essential. All car manufacturers reserve the right to change vehicle specifications without notice.