Kia Teases Euro 2022 Sportage, Will Be Smaller Than The Global Variant

Kia has announced plans to introduce the Euro-spec Sportage on September 1st.

While this typically wouldn’t be too exciting as the redesigned model has already been unveiled, this is the first time European customers will receive a “dedicated” variant.

The company is staying coy on specifics, but noted the model caters specifically to European tastes. The crossover has also been “meticulously honed to offer optimal drive and handling characteristics for European roads.”

Also Read: 2023 Kia Sportage Gets 1.6-Liter Turbo And 2.0-Liter Diesel At Launch, Hybrid And PHEV Coming Soon

More importantly, the Euro-spec Sportage will be smaller than the international variant which has grown in size. Kia didn’t release measurements, but said the “European version spiritually succeeds the fourth-generation” model in terms of size.

Besides announcing initial details, Kia released a handful of teaser images. They show the crossover will feature an Opposites United design philosophy and a familiar front end with a distinctive grille that is flanked by Matrix LED headlights and boomerang-shaped LED daytime running lights.

While the front end closely echoes the international Sportage, there are a number of changes aft of the A-pillar. Most noticeably, the Euro-spec model is shorter and eschews third quarter glass. We can also see a black roof and a more pronounced C-pillar. The rear end, on the other hand, appears to carryover.

Pictured here is the longer, Korean market 2022 Kia Sportage that was unveiled earlier this year

The European Sportage will be unveiled on September 1st at 11:00 AM CEST and go on sale later this year. Engine options remain unconfirmed, but they could be shared with the international variant which offers a turbocharged 1.6-liter petrol and a 2.0-liter turbodiesel. Kia has also confirmed plans for a Sportage plug-in hybrid, which will be introduced at the Munich Motor Show with a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine, a 13.8 kWh lithium-ion battery pack and an 90 hp (67 kW / 91 PS) electric motor.