Kia has released the first photos with the all-new Sportage’s interior, as well as detailed information about the fourth generation of its compact SUV.
The new Sportage is 40mm longer (4,480mm) with a 30mm longer wheelbase (2,670mm), while the width and the height remain unchanged, at 1,855mm and 1,635mm, respectively.
The new Sportage also has longer front overhangs (up by 20mm) and shorter rear overhangs (reduced by 10mm) for a more dynamic profile. The new model is the most aerodynamic Sportage to date, with drag reduced from 0.35 to 0.33 Cd.
The cabin is all-new as well and features a wide, driver-oriented dashboard with a simple design, divided into two clear zones – ‘display’ and ‘control’. The ‘display’ zone focuses on delivering information to occupants via the driver’s instrument binnacle and optional new 7.0- or 8.0-inch HMI (human-machine interface) systems in the center of the dashboard.
The ‘control’ zone is found below the clear line running the length of the dashboard and offers an ergonomic layout with functions designed to be clearly visible when on the move. Metal accents are combined with more soft-touch materials than before, while greater soundproofing measures have been adopted as well in order to make the cabin quieter.
Kia says the new Sportage offers greater space and improved passenger comfort thanks to the increased dimensions. Headroom has increased for both front and rear passengers, while maximum legroom has expanded as well. Cargo volume has increased too from 465 liters (16.4 cu-ft) to 503 liters (17.7 cu-ft).
As before, the Sportage will be offered with a choice of petrol and diesel engines with front- and all-wheel drive.
The model carries over many of the engines found in the current vehicle, with a new addition being the 1.6-liter T-GDI (turbo gasoline direct injection), offered exclusively for GT Line models. The engine produces 177PS (175hp) and 265Nm (195lb-ft) of torque from 1,500-4,500 rpm. It’s the only engine that can be mated to Kia’s new 7-speed DCT gearbox.The only other petrol engine available is the 1.6-liter GDI, rated at 132PS (130hp) and 161Nm (119lb-ft) of torque.
Diesel engines include a 115PS (113hp) 1.7-liter CRDi unit carried over from the previous Sportage and a significantly-upgraded 2.0-liter ‘R’ power unit available with two power outputs – 136PS (134hp) with 373Nm (275lb-ft) of torque and 184PS (181hp) with 400Nm (295lb-ft) of torque.
The new Kia Sportage will go on sale from the first quarter of 2016.
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