Sportage Strikes Back

Kia Philippines has brought the Sportage back to the local market, giving the compact SUV a turbo hybrid powertrain, updated styling and a broader set of comfort and safety features.

Now in its fifth generation, the Sportage returns as one of two available variants, the EX and SX. Both use a 1.6-liter turbocharged hybrid system paired with a 1.49-kWh lithium-ion battery, producing a combined 235 PS and 367 Nm of torque.

The setup gives Kia a hybrid entry in the compact SUV segment while retaining the performance expected from the Sportage nameplate.

Prices start at an introductory P1.898 million for the EX, down from its regular P1.978-million price until the end of July. The SX is priced at P2.098 million, while a version with an optional two-tone interior costs P2.128 million.

Kia has fitted both variants with 18-inch alloy wheels, LED lighting and its signature Tiger Nose grille. Star-Map Signature LED headlights and projector foglights give the front a sharper look, while a smart power tailgate adds convenience at the rear.

The cabin features a 12.3-inch LCD infotainment display with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Wireless phone charging and leather seats are also included, while the audio system depends on the chosen variant. Buyers get either a six-speaker setup or an eight-speaker Harman Kardon system.

Standard safety equipment includes six airbags, cruise control and a tire pressure monitoring system.

The higher-spec SX adds Kia DriveWise features such as Forward Collision Avoidance Assist, Advanced Smart Cruise Control, Autonomous Emergency Braking, Lane Keep Assist and Blind Spot Collision Avoidance Assist.

“The Kia Sportage has occupied a special place in the hearts of Filipino motorists as a pioneer of the compact SUV segment,” Kia Philippines Managing Director Jay Lopez said.

Lopez added that the new generation respects the model’s history while meeting current demand for hybrid performance, comfort and bolder styling.

Four exterior colors are available: Heritage Blue, Wolf Grey, Snow White Pearl and Gravity Grey. The SX may be ordered in all four shades, while the EX is available in Wolf Grey, Snow White Pearl and Gravity Grey.

Both versions come with a five-year or 160,000-kilometer vehicle warranty and an eight-year or 160,000-kilometer battery warranty.

The new Sportage is available through Kia dealerships nationwide. Kia Philippines operates under ACMobility and has 38 dealerships across the country.