Compact crossover SUVs are all the rage these days. It is the best-selling SUV sub-segment and they are popular for a reason. Crossover SUVs offer a ride and handling that is close to that of a sedan and practicality which is similar to proper SUVs. The Kia Sportage is one of the pioneers of this segment just like its competitor — the Toyota RAV4. Read all about the history and generations of the Toyota RAV4.
First launched in 1993, the Kia Sportage was initially a proper SUV intended for recreational activities. However, over time, it transitioned into a crossover SUV and was widely accepted by millions of buyers worldwide. With over six million units sold, the Kia Sportage has been the best-selling Kia model since 2016.
In this edition of the DubiCars Car Spotlight, we focus on the Kia Sportage and take you down history lane. Read on to know more.
Kia Sportage History & Heritage — Models Over The Years
First Generation | 1993 – 2005
The Kia Sportage went into production in 1993. However, its development began in the late 80s. Kia had an alliance with Ford & Mazda, where Kia used Mazda’s manufacturing platforms and technologies. As a result, the first-gen Kia Sportage was heavily based on the Mazda Bongo. Early versions of the car even used engines, gearboxes, and differentials from the Mazda.
It was sold in two body styles — three-door convertible & five-door SUV. It was available with either a 2.0-litre diesel or a 2.0-litre petrol inline-4 engine paired with a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission. It remained in production until 2002 for the global market. However, there was a version called the Wanli Sportage sold exclusively in China which remained in production until 2004.
Second Generation | 2004 – 2015
In 1998, Hyundai bought a stake in Kia and both brands began to work together in the development of future products. The effects of this were seen in the second-generation Kia Sportage. It was based on the Hyundai Tucson, which in turn was on the Hyundai Elantra’s platform.
For the first time, a V6 engine was seen under the bonnet of the Sportage. It was a 2.7-litre unit that was also found in the Hyundai Tucson. In addition, the Sportage was also available with 2.0-litre inline-4 petrol and diesel engine options. There was a 6-speed manual gearbox in addition to the 5-speed manual and 4-speed automatic. With this generation, the Kia Sportage became more on-road friendly and lost some of its off-road ability.
Third Generation | 2010 – 2018
2010 saw the arrival of the Third Generation Kia Sportage. It was completely transformed in terms of the design and styling. It used a more modern styling language that was more in line with Kia’s then-new design philosophy. The new design combined with a lengthy list of features resulted in increased sales numbers. It even won several awards across different markets.
In addition, the third generation of the Sportage was the safest. It received a Five-Star safety rating from Euro NCAP in 2010. The engines were more powerful too. Petrol variants were powered by a range of inline-4 engines with capacities ranging from 1.6-litres to 2.4-litres. There were two diesel engines on offer — 1.7-litre and 2.0-litre. Global production ended in 2015 while the Chinese market continued to produce this generation until 2018.
Fourth Generation | 2015 – Present
The fourth-generation Kia Sportage debuted at the 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show. It came with a brand-new design language that resulted in a modern-looking, super-stylish SUV. It wasn’t modern on the outside but came with several modern features including touchscreen infotainment. Even its safety features were more prominent. It came with front and rear disc brakes as well.
For the first time, the Kia Sportage was available with turbocharged petrol engine options, ranging from 1.6-litre to 2.4-litre inline-4 units. Those opting for the diesel variants could pick between 1.6-litre, 1.7-litre, and 2.0-litre engines. For the very first time, Kia also offered a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. Though global production stopped in 2021, the SUV is still being produced in Pakistan.
Fifth Generation | 2021 – Present
It is the largest and most modern version of the Sportage yet. Unlike its predecessors, the fifth-gen Kia Sportage looks more like a proper SUV than just a crossover SUV. Developed on the brand’s N3 platform, two versions of the SUV are available with varying lengths, destined for different markets across the world.
This is the first generation of the Kia Sportage to feature hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrain options. You can read our in-depth article on the differences between hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains. The hybrid powertrain of the Kia Sportage combines a 1.6-litre petrol engine with electric motors.
Some of the most notable features of the fifth-gen Kia Sportage include:
- Ventilated & heated front seats
- Remote folding second-row seats
- Forward collision avoidance
- Blind-spot collision warning
- Lane keep assist
- Lane follow assist
Most Popular Kia Sportage Generations In The UAE
The fourth and fifth generations of the Kia Sportage are the most popular in the UAE. Users of these generations appreciate the modern features on offer. If you’re looking for a Kia Sportage, here are used Kia Sportage SUVs for sale in the UAE & new Kia Sportage SUVs for sale in the UAE.
Also Read:
– Hyundai Tucson — History & Generations
– New Car Pre-Delivery Inspection Checklist
– 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser 250 Revealed
