2026 Kia Sportage in Huntington Beach, CA  

What’s New in the 2026 Kia Sportage? 

Updated Front-End Styling and Refined Rear Design: A bold front fascia dominates the 2026 profile. The tiger-nose grille appears larger and more aggressive than before. LED projector headlights and vertical DRLs frame the grille with sharp symmetry. At the rear, new LED taillights sweep across the liftgate. The bumper design feels more sculpted and athletic. Alloy wheels, ranging up to 19 inches, add edge to the SUV’s dynamic stance. Altogether, the new silhouette reflects a sportier presence without compromising practicality. Every angle looks ready for the road ahead. 

Latest Infotainment and Driver-Assist Upgrades: Inside, the dual panoramic curved display remains a highlight. It blends a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster with a 12.3-inch touchscreen seamlessly. Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ now support full functionality. The upgraded Kia Connect system provides real-time traffic and over-the-air updates. Moreover, features like Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist and Lane Following Assist have improved responsiveness. 

Enhanced Interior Materials and Layout Changes: Soft-touch materials now line doors and dashboards. Seating comfort improves with available suede and vegan leather options. Rear legroom measures 41.3 inches—among the most generous in its class. Cabin noise reduction enhances conversations and entertainment. The center console redesign introduces more storage and an intuitive control layout. Heated and ventilated front seats offer comfort year-round. Ambient lighting adds style at night. Together, these elements elevate everyday driving. 

Expanded Hybrid and Plug-In Hybrid Offerings: Kia increases its eco-focus for 2026. The hybrid model features a 1.6-liter turbo engine paired with a 44-kW electric motor. Total output reaches 226 horsepower. The plug-in hybrid variant adds a larger battery for 34 miles of electric range. Both use a 6-speed automatic transmission. Regenerative braking levels can be adjusted by the driver. Fuel economy for the hybrid reaches 42 MPG combined.