Well, that didn’t take long. On the same day Kia Philippines lifted our embargo announcement that we were driving the 2026 Sportage around Seoul, they also confirmed that it’s returning to the Philippines via its official social media channels.
Our first impressions will be out on May 25, but before that, let’s talk facts.
The 2026 Sportage technically isn’t an all-new model. It’s the fifth-generation Sportage launched way back in 2021 (yeah, we got to drive that one in Korea too). It was refreshed in 2024 (for the 2025 model year) and this is the version that the Philippines will get. Yet, this is the first time the fifth-generation Sportage will make its way to the country after it was discontinued after 2021 (read our review of the 2019 Sportage GT-Line Diesel).
Now, as far as updates go, it’s quite extensive. The overall lines echo the EV6 somewhat, but the front fascia now adopts the vertically-oriented LED headlights and Starmap lighting signature. The rear also has new rear lights and a garnish that connects both lighting units together.
Kia Philippines hasn’t confirmed which specs the Philippines is getting, but the one we drove in Korea is the X-Line variant which is new for the Sportage. The X-Line gives the compact SUV a much more rugged flair with its black emblems, larger grille insert, and 19-inch black wheels.
We can’t talk about the interior, powertrain, or driving impressions just yet so make sure you stay tuned this May 25 on our YouTube channel and our website of course.
For now, enjoy the Kia Sportage teaser below.
Sportage sells a lot in Europe and NA because of the value it offers, hoping Kia PH can do the same.
ReplyDeleteThis and the X-Trail are coming back to a now-crowded segment. Unless... KIA can offer competitive prices. I would rather KIA move up the local intro of the new Seltos, as its size class is getting very popular.
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