Hyundai’s Korean cousin, Kia will officially launch its first product in the Indian market in 2019. The company will introduce a compact SUV based on Kia SP concept, which was first unveiled at the 2018 Delhi Auto Expo. At the 2018 Delhi Auto Expo, Kia had also showcased its global lineup and the Sportage SUV was one of them. The Kia Sportage is one of the best-selling Kia SUVs globally. If media reports claim that Kia will follow top-down approach in terms of product launches in India. The Sportage could be the brand’s second SUV in India and is likely to be launched in the first quarter of 2020.
The Sportage SUV is one of Kia’s oldest models on sale globally. It is currently in its fourth generation and in global markets, and it will directly rival the Hyundai Tucson and Jeep Compass. In fact, the SUV is based on the Tucson platform. In India, the SUV will share mechanics with the Tucson, which means it will be powered by a 2.0-litre diesel engine. Like the Tucson, the Kia Sportage will be imported to India via CKD route and then assembled at the company’s new production facility in Anantpur, Andhra Pradesh. Besides, Hyundai is also considering local development of Stonic SUV. The Stonic platform could be used to develop a range of cars in India in future. Adding to it, Kia is aso considering the Grand Carnival MPV for Indian market.
Kia Sportage Features
– Bi-Xenon headlights
– LED daytime running lamps
– Electrically foldable ORVMs with integrated turn indicators
– Roof-spoiler
– Leather upholstery
– Panoramic sunroof
– Automatic headlight
– Tilt & telescopic steering wheel adjustment
– Adjustable driver seat
– Engine start/stop button
– Touchscreen infotainment system
– Satellite navigation, Android Auto & Apple CarPlay
Kia Sportage Launch Date
Korean automaker hasn’t revealed details on the launch of the Sportage, but the SUV has made its India debut at the 2018 Delhi Auto Expo. The company will start rolling out its products in 2019 and Sportage could be among the new Kia cars to go on sale in India in 2019. We will update our readers as soon as Kia announces its launch date.
Kia Sportage Price In India
In global markets, the Sportage directly rivals the Hyundai Tucson and Jeep Compass. It is expected to be priced between Rs 15 lakh and 20 lakh.
Kia Sportage Exterior
This Tucson based SUV is currently the oldest Kia model on sale in global markets. It is currently in fourth generation and was launched in 2015. The SUV features a very confident stance and looks well-proportioned from all angles. It comes equipped with a bold front fascia with aggressive front grille finished in high gloss black material, which will give it a sporty appeal. Some of the exterior design highlights include Bi-Xenon headlights, LED daytime running lights, electric adjustable wing mirrors with integrated blinkers, large stylish alloy wheels and body-coloured door handles. The Kia Sportage comes with roof rails and body cladding that runs across the length that gives it a sporty look. At the back, the SUV gets wraparound tail-lamps and a roof-mounted spoiler.
Dimensions
The Sportage shares platform with the Tucson, and is very similar in terms of dimensions with the later. It measures 4,480mm in length, 1,855mm in width and 1,45mm in height, and has a wheelbase of 2,670mm. The SUV comes with a boot space of 503-litres, which is more than most of its rivals.
Kia Sportage Interior
Measuring over 4.4 meter in length, the Kia Sportage is claimed to offer spacious cabin and large boot space to carry luggage. The model offers enough legroom space, headroom and shoulder space for both front and rear occupants. The seats are designed to offer comfortable rides for all passengers. It is expected to get electrically-adjustable seats with lumbar support. The material quality and fit and finish is top-notch, and is loaded with several high-end features. The rear seats are 60:40 split and can be folded down to increase boot space. It also comes with panoramic sunroof, leather-trimmed steering wheel and gearshift and adjustable driver seat. For entertainment and connectivity, the SUV will get a touchscreen infotainment system with in-built navigation and Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
Kia Sportage Specifications
In India, the new Sportage shares its mechanics with Hyundai Tucson. The SUV will come with a choice of two powertrains – a 2.0-litre VTVT petrol and a 2.0-litre CRDi diesel. While the former is good for 155bhp and 192Nm of torque, the oil burner produces 185bhp and 400Nm of torque. Transmission options will include a 6-speed manual and an automatic unit. It will come in both front wheel and all-wheel drive layout.
Kia Sportage Mileage
Sharing mechanics with Tucson, the Kia Sportage is expected to deliver around 13kmpl in petrol and close to 18kmpl in diesel.
Kia Sportage Safety Features
This premium SUV is equipped with several high-end safety features. In India, the SUV will get automatic headlamps, ABS (Anti-Lock Braking System) and EBD (Electronic Brake-Force Distribution), rear parking camera with dynamic guidelines, six airbags, electronic stability control, hill-start assist control, vehicle stability management, downhill brake control and brake assist.
Kia Sportage Competition
In India, the SUV will challenge the likes of Hyundai Tucson and Jeep Compass.
