Updates on 2025 Kia Sportage: A glance at its changes post hybrid mid-size SUV's facelift
The Kia Sportage has made a significant impact in the Australian market, securing the fourth spot in the biggest-selling car segment [1]. It's not just any model that has earned this position; the Kia Sportage is, in fact, the brand's best-selling model both domestically and globally, with nearly 9000 units sold locally this year [1]. One of the most intriguing offerings within the Sportage range is the GT-Line Hybrid AWD model.
Advanced Features and Performance
The GT-Line Hybrid AWD model comes equipped with a host of standard features that set it apart from its competitors. These include 18-inch alloy wheels, dusk-sensing automatic LED headlights, rain-sensing automatic wipers, rear privacy glass, a panoramic sunroof, LED interior lighting, keyless entry with push-button start, a 12.3-inch digital driver's display, a 12.3-inch touchscreen, satellite navigation with live traffic, AM/FM/DAB+ digital radio, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a wireless phone charger, 4x USB-C ports, a Harman Kardon eight-speaker sound system, a heated synthetic leather steering wheel, a dial transmission selector, leather upholstery, electric front seat adjustment with heating, cooling, and driver's memory functionality, dual-zone automatic climate control with rear air vents, a head-up display, and more [2].
Under the hood, the GT-Line Hybrid AWD model is powered by a turbocharged 1.6-litre four-cylinder hybrid engine [2]. This hybrid system is quiet and efficient, favouring fuel conservation whenever possible [2]. The hybrid system offers a strong power boost, with 239 hp compared to the 150-180 hp of the petrol variants [3].
Ride, Handling, and Efficiency
The ride quality of the GT-Line Hybrid AWD model is fantastic, boasting best-in-class performance [2]. The handling is also commendable, with quick steering and an agile chassis, making it relatively fun to drive [2]. In terms of fuel efficiency, the Sportage GT-Line Hybrid AWD model claims combined fuel consumption of 5.3L/100km and CO2 emissions of 121g/km [3].
Pricing and Equipment
The starting price for the new Kia Sportage is $37,990 plus on-road costs [3]. However, the GT-Line Hybrid AWD model costs $60,370 plus on-road costs, reflecting the advanced hybrid powertrain technology, higher-spec features, and build costs [3][4]. The price gap primarily stems from the hybrid drivetrain's complexity and cost, the performance and power output gap, the trim and equipment levels, and the weight and fuel economy trade-offs [3][4].
Safety and Practicality
The Sportage GT-Line Hybrid AWD model is equipped with a comprehensive safety suite, including 7 airbags, autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian, cyclist, and intersection assistance, lane keeping assist with lane follow assist, adaptive lane guidance, adaptive cruise control including highway driving assistant, blind-spot monitoring with rear cross traffic alert (both with braking), blind-spot monitoring camera feed, safe exit assist, low-speed rear automatic braking, rear occupant alert, traffic sign recognition, driver attention monitoring with lead vehicle departure alert, a 360-degree camera, front and rear parking sensors, tyre pressure monitoring, auto high beam, and more [3].
The boot of the GT-Line Hybrid AWD model offers a capacity of 586 litres, which expands to 1872 litres with the rear seats folded [3]. The boot also includes under-floor storage, a dual-level floor, remote releases for folding the rear seats, and a quick electric tailgate [3].
The screen in the updated Kia Sportage is a bit dark, and the driver's display isn't configurable at all [4]. However, the infotainment system is easy to use, quick, and well-appointed, with features such as wireless smartphone mirroring, digital radio, satellite navigation with live traffic, over-the-air updates, and access to the Kia Connect smartphone app [4]. The Harman Kardon sound system is punchy, and the wireless charger is quite effective in charging [4].
The new model of Kia Sportage is available in S, SX, SX+, and GT-Line models [1]. Notably, the pre-facelifted Kia Sportage was awarded a five-star ANCAP safety rating [1].
References:
- CarAdvice
- Kia Australia
- CarsGuide
- Motor
- The Kia Sportage GT-Line Hybrid AWD model offers impressive fuel economy with a claimed combined fuel consumption of 5.3L/100km, demonstrating the advancements in automotive industry's focus on finance and transportation efficiency.
- In the competitive automotive industry, the Kia Sportage GT-Line Hybrid AWD model stands out with its sleek design, electric-vehicle technology, and high-end lifestyle features, setting new standards for the brand.
- The GT-Line Hybrid AWD model's focus on hybrid technology and advanced features represents a significant shift in the finance and technology sectors of the global automotive industry, particularly in the area of electric-vehicles.
- With its powerful hybrid engine, superior ride quality, and comprehensive safety features, the Kia Sportage GT-Line Hybrid AWD is more than just a car; it's a statement that blends stylish lifestyle choices with an awareness of the growing need for sustainable transportation solutions in our industry and daily lives.
