School is getting back in season all across the nation, and the 2026 Kia Sportage took this opportunity to get a fresh style. Talk about a glow up, because it looks great. Plus, it has new tech to flex about. 

What’s new for the 2026 Kia Sportage? 

The 2026 Kia Sportage is rocking a mid-cycle refresh. In my humble opinion, the new grille, headlights, and front bumper are a massive upgrade. The Sportage looks more confident, rugged, and commanding. 

New wheel designs and a revised rear end with new LED taillights complete the exterior. The interior features a new squared-off two-spoke steering wheel. Also, the glossy black trim has been replaced by textured faux wood. 

The 2026 Sportage features a standard 12.3-inch touchscreen that’s paired with a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster. Plus, the new system finally provides wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. 

It still has the same repeatable 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 187 hp and 178 lb-ft of torque. Also, the Sportage PHEV cranks out 268 hp and 34 miles of electric range. 

Upgrade to the Sportage Hybrid for a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that’s paired with two electric motors to generate 232 hp. It has a few extra ponies than before. 

The X-Line trim enhances capability and features unique front and rear bumper designs. The X-Pro Prestige trim is much beefier with standard Active All-Wheel Drive, all-terrain tires, and a new terrain mode. 

According to Kia, the 2026 Kia Sportage has an MSRP of $28,690, undercutting the price of the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V.