A facelift of the new Sportage brings the coupe version of the compact crossover SUV. However, more changes in the standard model are yet to come. The 2021 Kia Sportage will introduce the mid-cycle update that should improve its chances on the US market. The crossover is very popular in other markets, especially in Europe. The new concept and interior will refresh the styling and lure more buyers for sure. But, other carmakers are not just watching the things go by.
The compact crossover SUV segment is the most popular in the US. The best-selling vehicles are the Nissan Rogue and Toyota Rav4. The 2021 Kia Sportage is not going to challenge these models. Coupe version definitely deserves the praise, as well as advanced features inside the cockpit. Kia will keep the price low to make their model more attractive to buyers.
A pair of four-bangers are drivetrain options. But, the situation in the compact class is becoming more interesting with more and more hybrids in the offer. The 2021 Sportage could be the next one.
Redesign Concept, Coupe
The 2021 Kia Sportage will become even sportier. The first step is made by presenting the coupe version (source: Motor1). Well, these are just renders, and the company hasn’t confirmed this model yet. On the other hand, the new body style will definitely win the hearts of the buyers paying more attention to the look of their vehicles.
The coupe is nearly the same as the standard Sportage. However, midway the roofline, the situation becomes interesting. A sloping roof with smaller rear windows and lower tail are results of the redesign. The vehicle is going to be more aesthetic and aerodynamic. The downside will be the lack of room for passengers in the second row and less cargo space.
The redesign of the standard crossover SUV comes with an idea of the new front fascia. Headlights, bumper, and grille are getting a refresh. Also, the coupe could get inspiration from the new version of the 2021 Kia Sportage. More aggressive appearance is never the wrong decision. However, details are still unknown. During next year we will get more information from the carmaker.
2021 Kia Sportage Interior
One of the main advantages of the Sportage is its interior. The redesign will only cement this segment as the best part of the crossover. Well, designers will have to do a terrible job to spoil it. The interior offers some nearly premium elements, but it doesn’t affect the price, which is under the average value in the compact segment.
Still, the lower roof and coupe model will shred the interior space, both for passengers and cargo. Infotainment update is certain, but there are details about novelties.
We believe the company will keep the LX as the entry-level trim, S as the mid-range offer, and the Turbo SX offering the turbocharged engine. Cloth, leatherette seats, and fully-leather upholstery will cover the cabin and make a difference between models.
2021 Kia Sportage Specs
Under the hood of the 2021 Kia Sportage, you will find a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine. The company keeps this drivetrain since it is the most suitable for the compact crossover. It is capable to produce 185 hp and 175 lb-ft and distributes it through a six-speed automatic transmission. Front- and all-wheel drive are options.
Another drivetrain is a 2.0-turbocharged four-pot with 240 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque available for SX Turbo model. The same transmission and drive modes are available, but this engine returns worse fuel economy. A naturally-aspirated version is good for 26 mpg, while the AWD consumes a lot more fuel and drops the rating to 23 mpg. Turbo unit makes 23/21 mpg with FWD/AWD.
2021 Kia Sportage Europe
In Europe, the 2021 Kia Sportage will get more options. The smallest petrol displacement is a 1.6-liter mill capable to produce 130 hp and 120 lb-ft of torque. It is also available with a manual gearbox. Of course, there is a diesel engine as well with 120 hp and 205 lb-ft of torque. The CRDi 2.0-liter unit steps up with 135 hp and 275 pound-feet.
Release Date and Price
The 2021 Kia Sportage is going to have one of the most attractive offers in the market. The level of equipment is above the competition. On the other hand, the Korean company is trying to lure more buyers by offering it below the average price for this class. Currently, Sportage is available for $24,000 in the US and the price could go slightly up.
Still, the biggest updates are yet to come, with the new hybrid and coupe versions. These are only speculations for now and we couldn’t find a reliable source to confirm these rumors. The price of these models will definitely be slightly higher than we got used to with the Sportage.
The new crossover SUV is coming next year. With the model for 2020 season already out without big changes, we are sure the 2021 Sportage is coming with the huge changes.
