The Sportage facelift Ecodynamics+ model is fitted with a 48-volt electrical architecture with a starter-generator unit. It uses a 0.46kWh, 48V lithium-ion battery and will be fitted on more Kia models.
The unit is mated to a 2.0-litre diesel engine, which produces 134hp. The Sportage's Ecodynamics+ engine also allows for a smaller and lighter 12V battery to power the car’s ancillaries. The new mild hybrid diesel, in Europe, will sit at the top of the engine range. The car is also available with a 1.6-litre CRDi diesel that replaces the previous 1.7-litre unit. There are two outputs for this engine - 115hp and 136hp, the more powerful version comes with four-wheel-drive.
The existing 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol continues, and Kia will add a new petrol mild hybrid powertrain soon. The car comes with an upgrade to the lighting details at the front and rear, as well as different bumpers and new wheels of 17- to 19-inch diameters. The top trims get LED fog lamps and sportier detailing.
In the cabin, there’s a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system as standard with an 8-inch system available as an optional extra. There’s smart cruise control and a 360-degree camera display on the infotainment screen.
