The upgraded MY26 Kia Sportage has arrived in Australian showrooms with more choice, smarter technology, and a fresh design to remain competitive in the country’s most popular new vehicle segment.
Building on its reputation for comfort, safety and value, the new Sportage now offers a broader range of powertrains — including the long-awaited all-wheel-drive (AWD) hybrid — alongside petrol and diesel options. It also debuts enhanced safety features, new digital services like Kia Connect, and updated exterior styling.
“These latest refinements of the Sportage formula reinforce its competitiveness in Australia’s biggest new car segment,” said Damien Meredith, CEO of Kia Australia. “The expanded availability of hybrid options affirms Kia’s commitment to providing new car buyers with a wide variety of powertrain and specification choices.”
New Hybrid Options for Eco-Conscious Drivers
In a major update for novated lease buyers and fleets looking to reduce emissions without going fully electric, the 2026 Sportage introduces AWD Hybrid variants across the SX and GT-Line trims. The hybrid system pairs a 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine with an electric motor and 6-speed automatic transmission.
Hybrid pricing starts from $46,450 (SX FWD) and rises to $60,370 for the range-topping GT-Line AWD.
For those not ready to go hybrid, Kia continues to offer petrol and diesel variants — including a 1.6T petrol now matched with an 8-speed torque converter auto across SX+ and GT-Line trims for smoother performance.
More Tech Inside and Out
Inside, the Sportage gains a modernised two-spoke steering wheel, while all models now feature a 12.3-inch infotainment screen with Kia’s latest Connected Car Navigation Cockpit (ccNC). This system enables over-the-air updates and unlocks seven years of complimentary Kia Connect features — including remote vehicle monitoring, live traffic, weather updates, and enhanced navigation.
GT-Line variants also score a new Head-Up Display (HUD), while SX+ and GT-Line trims add Highway Driving Assist (HDA) for improved lane control on highways, combining adaptive cruise and lane following tech.
Smart Key with push-button start is now standard across the range, while wireless phone charging is added from the SX+ grade upwards.
Refreshed Styling Brings It Closer to Sorento
Kia’s ‘Opposites United’ design philosophy evolves again with the new Sportage. A redesigned front bumper, vertically stacked headlights, bold new grille, and updated rear light signatures bring it stylistically closer to the larger Sorento SUV.
New 18- and 19-inch alloy wheel designs are applied across the range, with the hybrid GT-Line standing out with a unique 18-inch wheel. Two new colours — Wolf Grey and Heritage Blue — further expand the premium paint palette.
Model Line-Up, Pricing and Specification Highlights
The Sportage continues with four trim levels: S, SX, SX+ and GT-Line, each available in multiple powertrains. Here’s a quick look at the line-up and RRP:
| Variant | Powertrain | Drivetrain | RRP |
|---|---|---|---|
| S FWD | 2.0L Petrol | FWD | $37,990 |
| SX FWD | 2.0L Petrol | FWD | $40,480 |
| SX+ FWD | 2.0L Petrol | FWD | $45,080 |
| SX+ AWD | 1.6T Petrol | AWD | $47,080 |
| GT-Line AWD | 1.6T Petrol | AWD | $53,990 |
| S AWD | 2.0L Diesel | AWD | $43,390 |
| SX AWD | 2.0L Diesel | AWD | $45,880 |
| SX+ AWD | 2.0L Diesel | AWD | $50,480 |
| GT-Line AWD | 2.0L Diesel | AWD | $56,400 |
| HEV SX FWD | 1.6T Hybrid | FWD | $46,450 |
| HEV SX AWD | 1.6T Hybrid | AWD | $49,450 |
| HEV GT-Line FWD | 1.6T Hybrid | FWD | $57,370 |
| HEV GT-Line AWD | 1.6T Hybrid | AWD | $60,370 |
Note: All specifications are preliminary and subject to final local inspection by Kia Australia.
Smart Choice for Novated Leasing
With competitive pricing, modern styling, and a choice of fuel-efficient powertrains, the new Sportage is expected to remain a top pick for novated lease buyers. The hybrid options in particular offer the perfect mix of lower running costs, strong residuals, and SUV practicality — all while qualifying for fringe benefits tax (FBT) exemptions if priced under the luxury car tax threshold.
Whether it’s for families, fleets, or professionals looking for a stylish and connected drive, the MY26 Kia Sportage is a compelling package that’s now greener, smarter and more refined than ever.
