The next Kia Sportage is going to be redesigned. This is an official info from the company. But, further news is telling that we will see the 2019 Kia Sportage Hybrid as a part of overall changes on the model. The crossover is growing with every new model. With a presence in the EV market with Kia Niro, plug-in variants of its other SUVs are not a surprise.
The 2019 Kia Sportage Hybrid is not going to be the only electrified crossover next season. Abovementioned Soul is getting a hybrid version, although it already has standard petrol and EV variants. Also, the vehicle is going to be available in the US and UK, and then in the rest of Europe.
2019 Kia Sportage Hybrid Engine
It is not confirmed yet, but earlier info from the company suggests that the 2019 Kia Sportage Hybrid is likely to happen. Korean carmaker confirmed the development of the mild-hybrid system. However, a 48-volt battery would cause the changes under the hood, since it is not compatible with existing 1.6-liter mill in Europe, or 2.4-liter powertrain in the US.
Instead, the mild-hybrid system for the 2019 Kia Sportage will use a 1.4-liter turbo-four engine as its base. Power output could be nearly the same as for the gasoline models, but the hybrid will make the SUV more fuel-friendly. This system is going to return probably over 30 mpg combined.
Sportage GT
Besides hybrid, the 2019 Kia Sportage is getting a GT version. We already had it in the US. Now, the 2.4-liter engine is ready for Europe. Turbo-four drivetrain is capable to deliver 245 horses and 260 lb-ft of torque through a six-speed transmission. With a towing capacity of 2,000 pounds and 23 mpg combined, this model could come to consideration.
2019 Kia Sportage Hybrid Redesign
The only certain thing about the crossover is a redesign. The 2019 Kia Sportage Hybrid will use a shell from its petrol sibling. So, both models will be more attractive. We have first spy photos showing what to expect from the new SUV.
Kia Sportage Spy Shots
Heavy camo is hiding most of the body, but it can’t cover the whole vehicle. If the 2019 Kia Sportage Hybrid is the same as its sibling, it will carry brand-new headlights. Square projectors with four points are something we can’t see elsewhere in Kia’s range. We might find this “ice cube” design on Porsche Cayenne.
From shapes of the camouflage, we can notice different curves on grille and bumper. It is a clear sign that the company is hiding more novelties. According to spy shots, front bumper will have some unique shape.
Interior
The 2019 Kia Sportage Hybrid is not totally spied. We couldn’t see the interior of the base vehicle. Without too many clues about the hybrid, we can only guess that this version is going to use special dashboard and control panel. A monitor for the hybrid system is needed, so revisit of that we will see on the base Sportage is certain.
2019 Kia Sportage Hybrid Release Date
Well, we could say that 2019 Kia Sportage Hybrid is one of the main products for the next season, but it is not so sure. The company is preparing changes on other vehicles. Also, the redesign of the standard Sportage could overshadow the hybrid. Buyers are not yet crazy about these vehicles, and growth in popularity of a standard SUV could make an impact on the performance of the electrified version.
We can expect both of these vehicles to be launched before 2019. But, we still don’t know if Kia is taking one place for both debuts or it will split them with different occasions.
