Kia Sportage SUV - Interior & comfort
Kia has brought the Sportage’s interior right up to date with tech from the EV6
The outgoing Kia Sportage has started to look a little dated, as carmakers are no longer favouring a dashboard layout that fully envelops a touchscreen. Now the screen sits above the centre console, and on higher trims it’s joined by a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. The two screens are joined in one curved bank and are borrowed from the electric Kia EV6.
The EV6 is one of Kia’s flagship cars and its tech is impressive. That means the Sportage benefits from an infotainment system that’s quick to load, responsive and straightforward, with pinsharp graphics too. Kia has not only resisted the urge to put the climate control functions in the touchscreen but has also made it possible to control the screen using the rotary dials (you can switch their purpose in the settings).
Kia Sportage dashboard
If you pick the ‘3’ trim level or above, you get the impressive dual 12.3-inch screens you see in the picture above. It makes the Sportage feel far more upmarket than its predecessor and it’s closely aligned with the bigger Kia Sorento. Lower-spec cars get traditional dials with a small display between them, while the cheapest ‘2’ gets a smaller eight-inch touchscreen, albeit still with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Equipment
While the ‘2’ may have small screens, it’s hardly sparse. LED headlights, DAB radio, a reversing camera, alloy wheels and parking sensors are all fitted as standard. GT-Line is next up the ladder and brings keyless entry and seats upholstered in leather and suede, along with the sportier exterior styling.
The mid-range ‘3’ trim, costing around £4,000 more than the base model, may prove popular. It adds heated front and rear seats, adaptive cruise control and privacy glass for the rear windows and tailgate.
Focusing on luxury, the ‘4’ model includes kit like a panoramic sunroof, an upgraded Harman Kardon stereo, wireless phone charging, adaptive headlights and self-parking ability. GT-Line S combines sporty looks with heaps of equipment, with ventilated, massaging, electrically adjustable front seats and a hands-free tailgate giving away its range-topping position.
