The fifth-generation Kia Sportage looks as though it will be quite a design departure from models gone by.
While we’ve seen the steeply rising side window line before, this is our first look at the new car’s headlights, which are contained in one single narrow block set low and at the edges of the front bumper.
As with the current iteration, the new Sportage’s tail-light duties are split between two different units.
The brake, indicator and driving lights live high on the tailgate, while the reversing lamps and reflectors are located in the bumper.
A month ago, the upcoming Sportage was photographed with a fully exposed derriere, including an apartment-sized Kia badge on the tailgate.
A prototype spied six months ago was fitted with body hugging camouflage, and provides a much clearer idea of the new model’s surfacing than this vehicle.
Under the skin the Sportage will share its platform with the latest Hyundai Tucson.
In Australia the Tucson is offered with either a 115kW/192Nm 2.0-litre naturally-aspirated four-cylinder, or a 132kW/265Nm 1.6-litre turbo.
A 2.0-litre turbo-diesel with 137kW and 416Nm is also available.
Overseas the Tucson is also sold with hybrid and plug-in hybrid drivetrains. Neither of these electrified drivetrains seem likely to be offered in Australia-bound Tuscons.
Like the Tucson, the Sportage will be available in both short and long wheelbase forms, with the car spied here being the shorter variant.
We’re not sure whether long, short or both versions will be sold Down Under.
