Pricing and specs announced for 2018 Kia Sportage
Big-selling crossover now includes range-topping diesel hybrid model
Kia has revealed full pricing and specification details for its updated Sportage.
The family crossover is the South Korean manufacturer’s best-selling model in the UK and features key upgrades, including an updated infotainment system and a selection of new active driver aids to boost safety.
The big-ticket item, however, is the addition of a hybrid powertrain. Denoted by the moniker ‘EcoDynamics+’ it’s an extension of the existing 2.0-litre CRDi diesel. Rather than converting it into a full-series hybrid, however, Kia’s strapped on a 48-volt mild-hybrid booster system instead. It says the new powertrain produces a range-topping 182bhp, but hasn’t revealed fuel economy or CO2 emissions figures yet.
With the addition of the 48V mild-hybrid system, Kia and sister brand Hyundai will be the first manufacturers to offer a vehicle line-up including combustion, mild hybrid, series hybrid, plug-in hybrid and fully electric powertrains.
