Kia started its journey in 1944. Initially, it manufactured motorcycles, three-wheelers and bicycles, but gradually moved towards automobiles and launched its first model series Brisa in 1974. Since then, Kia has come a long way and has created an impression on the automobile industry. Kia is credited for launching performance-oriented vehicles equipped with advanced technological features. The SUV model series Sportage is a prime example of it. Sportage was unveiled in 1995 and was well received by the audience. Currently, the fifth generation of Kia Sportage is in the market.
Let’s take a closer look at the Kia Sportage history, its generations and the features each generation has to offer.
Generations of Kia Sportage
The most interesting fact about Kia is that it is one of the oldest car manufacturers in South Korea. The experience of Kia is visible in its model lineup, including Sportage.
Here are the complete details regarding all Kia Sportage models.
First Generation Kia Sportage (1995 to 1997)
The first generation of Kia was a five-door compact SUV. The front fascia features rectangular headlights with a radiator grille in between. Roof racks were also present to complete the compact SUV appearance of the car.
The centre console contains AC vents and a stereo system. Whereas the instrument cluster features an analogue speedometer and fuel gauge. Power windows were included to ensure the convenience of travellers.
Under the hood, the car contains a 2.0-litre inline 4-cylinder engine paired with a 5-speed manual transmission system.
First Generation Kia Sportage Facelift (1998 to 2003)
The first generation of Sportage received a facelift in 1998. In the facelifted version, the radiator grille was redesigned with vertical slits instead of horizontal ones. Also, the roof racks were removed after the first-generation facelift.
For the interior, the instrument cluster was redesigned with three dials showing different information related to the car. However, no major changes were observed in the design of the centre console.
The facelift version was available in a 4WD drivetrain system. However, the engine and transmission system remains the same.
Second Generation Kia Sportage (2004 to 2007)
The second generation of Sportage was redesigned and had nothing similar to that of the old Kia Sportage models. The rectangular headlights were replaced with eye-shaped ones, and the radiator grille was also redesigned. In this generation, an enlarged Kia logo was mounted in the centre of the radiator grille. Roof rails were present that stretched from the front of the roof to the brake lights. At the rear end, large brake lights were installed, and the rear-mounted spare tyre was removed.
Inside the cabin, the centre console was redesigned with new AC vents, a stereo system and controls. The instrument cluster was also updated with a more advanced speedometer.
A V6 engine was available that was paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission system. This time, the 4WD drivetrain system was replaced with an AWD drivetrain system.
Second Generation Kia Sportage Facelift (2008 to 2009)
The second generation of Kia Sportage received a facelift in 2008. The facelifted Sportage was revealed with bigger headlights and a redesigned radiator grille and bumpers.
Inside the cabin, a new satellite radio, iPod and USB connectivity were present. Along with this, four anchors and two-position cargo covers were also present in the trunk to hold the cargo.
The engine range includes a 2.0-litre diesel and a 2.7-litre petrol engine. The engines were accompanied by a 4-speed automatic transmission system.
Third Generation Kia Sportage (2010 to 2013)
In the third generation, the Tiger Nose front fascia was introduced. Old headlights were replaced with new pointed headlights, and the radiator grille was also redesigned. The bonnet was inclined towards the front, which resembles a tiger’s nose. Moreover, angular body contours were blended into the oval exterior of the car, which provides it with a unique look.
The third-generation cabin was large enough to accommodate five passengers with a large trunk space. An advanced infotainment system was installed with an MP3 file reader. Furthermore, a colour-display LCD was present inside the rearview mirror that shows images from the rear camera.
The car was available with two different types of drivetrain systems, both 2WD and AWD systems were available. For the base models, a 5-speed automatic transmission system was available. Whereas, an optional 6-speed automatic transmission system was also offered.
Third Generation Kia Sportage Facelift (2013 to 2015)
Kia facelifted the third generation of Sportage and completely redesigned it. Sweeping angles, body contours and pronounced flares were added on the car’s exterior to provide it with a unique and bold exterior. Along with this, a panoramic sunroof was also present.
The car was offered in three different trim levels: SX, LX and EX. Each trim offers a distinct set of features. Some of these features include a 6-speaker audio system, Bluetooth connectivity, a USB port, automatic headlights, and rear privacy glass.
The interior of the car was also enhanced with the installation of a cooled glovebox, luxury upholstery and heated seats.
The engine range includes a 2.4-litre and 2.0-litre turbocharged engine. The engine was accompanied by a 6-speed automatic transmission system. A 2WD drivetrain system as standard, with an optional 4WD drivetrain system.
Fourth Generation Kia Sportage (2015 to 2018)
Kia unveils the fourth generation Sportage at the Frankfurt International Motor Show in 2015. The exterior of the car was aerodynamic with sharp edges and angles. The air intakes and fog lights were present on the front side of the pronounced fenders. Eye-shaped light with sharp edges was uplifted and a newly designed radiator grille was sandwiched between the lights. At the rear end, sleek brake lights were installed with a chromed metal plate connecting both lights.
Inside the cabin, a minimalist driver-friendly dashboard was installed. Furthermore, a metal finish and high-graded plastic were used for decorating the cabin. This large cabin was soundproof due to the advanced sound insulation system installed. For better safety, a lane departure system, lane keeping assist, high beam assist, blind spot detection, rear cross-traffic alert and auto emergency brakes were offered.
This generation of Sportage features a fully-independent suspension system that aids in increasing ride quality and handling. The engine range offers a 1.6-litre petrol and 1.7-litre diesel engine. The engine was paired with a 6-speed manual transmission system.
Fourth Generation Kia Sportage Facelift (2018 to 2021)
Kia facelifted the fourth generation of Sportage to cater to the emission standards and shifting customer demand in the automotive industry. The front fascia received a major facelift with redesigned headlights and a radiator grille. Moreover, air intake vents, fog lights and lower bumpers were also present in this facelifted version.
The cabin was decorated with high-grade plastic decorated with a metal finish. At the centre console, control options and an infotainment system were present. Whereas, a redesigned two-dial instrument cluster was also installed.
The car was powered by a 1.6-litre diesel engine paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission system and AWD drivetrain system.
Current Generation of Kia Sportage (2021 to Present)
Currently, the fifth generation of Kia Sportage is available in the market. The car represents the journey and evolution of Sportage as a model series. The headlights of this generation are arrow-shaped pointing towards the radiator grille. A large radiator grille is present between the lights supported by a pair of daytime running lights on each side. Beneath the bumper, a scratch-resistant shield is present to secure the car from excessive damage in case of a collision.
Inside, Kia installed a wide instrument panel and infotainment screen. Moreover, the traditional gear stick is repealed with a shift-by-wire transmission dial for the automatic transmission system. The interior is offered in two different colours: sage green and black with bold quilting or black metal wood trims.
This was the complete history of Kia Sportage. From the aforementioned information, it is visible that Kia Sportage was always a performance-oriented compact SUV suitable for different customer segments. The model series is equipped with the latest technological and safety features that are essential for the driver’s convenience and comfortable ride experience. If you are also interested in availing of the above-mentioned features, browse through these used Kia Sportage for sale in the UAE, and purchase your own compact SUV.
For other latest models, you can visit Kia showrooms in Dubai.
Stay tuned to UAE’s leading auto blog for more information on the Kia Sportage model years.
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