When Kia introduced the US-spec 2023 Sportage earlier this week, it differed from the Korean-spec model in a rather obscure way.
As noticed by CarScoops reader CapitolHillian2019, the US-spec crossover has a T-handle shifter while the international variant features a far more streamlined rotary shifter.
The change can likely be chalked up to different powertrains as the US-spec model has a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and an eight-speed automatic transmission, while international variants offer a turbocharged 1.6-liter engine and a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox. Regardless of the reason, it’s hard to defend the old school shifter as the rotary unit allows for a cleaner and more streamlined cabin. It also provides practical benefits such as unrestricted access to the wireless smartphone charger and front USB ports.
Also Read: 2023 Kia Sportage Detailed For America, Includes Rugged-Looking X Models
Kia isn’t the only example as the Ram 1500 offers both a rotary and traditional shifter. The latter is limited to the TRX and G/T variants, where it’s known as a “performance shifter.”
While most consumers probably won’t mind, it begs the question which one do you prefer? It’s hard to fault the simplicity of traditional shifters, but their rotary counterparts offer benefits of their own.
Of course, there are also plenty of other shifters these days and a number of them feature a compact design that provides many of the same benefits as a rotary unit, albeit with a different layout.
