Kia New Zealand has revealed local pricing and specification for the updated MY26 Sportage SUV, with a line up that features FWD and AWD models and two powertrains, including a new hybrid option for the AWD versions of the popular mid-sizer.
Four models make up Kia's Sportage range going into 2026, with the FWD-only LX opening the pricing at $43,990 and the AWD HEV X-Line topping it at $64,990.
The LX is also the only model that uses a non-hybrid version of Kia's 1.6-litre turbo petrol four-cylinder engine. Producing 132kW and 265Nm, the ICE engine drives the front wheels via an 8-speed automatic transmission and comes standard with 17-inch alloy wheels.
The HEV Light model is available in either FWD or AWD and costs $49,990 and $54,990 respectively. The Light is powered by a new hybrid version of the 1.6-litre engine that adds a 1.49kWh battery and a 44kW electric motor to the mix, pumping the combined output up to 173kW and 367Nm. It uses a drive-by-wire six-speed automatic transmission.
The HEV Earth is up next, again in 2WD or AWD form, with the same powertrain as the Light, but extra kit such as 18-inch alloy wheels, front LED fog lights, rear privacy glass, composite leather upholstery, a heated steering wheel and electrically adjustable driver's seat. The Earth will cost $54,990 for the 2WD model and $59,990 for the AWD.
The HEV X-Line tops the range, again in either 2WD or AWD forms, with the same hybrid powertrain, but adds even more standard kit, as well as 19-inch alloy wheels. A 360 degree camera system, LED projection headlights, panoramic sunroof, a 12.3-inch digital dash, a head-up display and a premium Harman Kardon audio system are all among the extras the X-Line adds, with the 2WD landing here at $59,990, while the AWD tops the range at $64,990.
"Sportage has established itself as one of Kia’s best-selling models, both here and abroad," said Todd McDonald, Managing Director of Kia New Zealand.
"The new model year offers Kia New Zealand an opportunity to target a wider array of customers, from families through to fleets, thanks to an impressive range of seven different variants available from an attainable $43,990.
McDonald said that the Sportage stacks up "incredibly well and out performs key competitors in terms of power, torque and towing capacity", which he says are important ‘top of the list’ attributes for many people when considering the purchase of a new vehicle.
"We’re confident that enhancements to the 5th generation Sportage exterior and interior design, comfort and convenience technology plus additional safety features will help it continue to be one of the best-loved new models available for sale here in New Zealand."
