Assalamualaikum PakWheelers! This is Suneel from PakWheels Expert Review Series. Today, we bring you a detailed review of the all-new, 5th generation Kia Sportage, also known in Pakistan as the Kia Sportage HEV (Hybrid Electric Vehicle).
Lucky Motor Corporation (Kia Pakistan) launched the Sportage, which has been its top-selling model since its CKD launch in 2019. Now, they’re back with a completely redesigned version, which carries forward only the “Sportage” name and Kia badge from the previous generation—everything else is brand-new: exterior, interior, engine, and features.
Variants in Pakistan
- Sportage Alpha (Petrol FWD)
- Sportage FWD (Petrol)
- Sportage HEV (Top-of-the-line Hybrid variant) (Review is based on this variant)
Exterior Highlights
The salient exterior highlights are:
- Distinctive Boomerang-style DRLs and Rhombus-shaped LED headlamps
- Star Chain-style piano black grille with signature Kia upper lip styling (seen across other Kia models)
- 18-inch alloy wheels with matte grey finish (variant-specific)
- Glossy black side mirrors with integrated LED turn signals
- Full 360-degree camera system
- Matte chrome side garnish and cladding across bumpers and doors
- LED taillights with black bezel connecting both sides (integrated design theme)
- Hidden rear wiper and high-mounted spoiler with brake light
- Smart power tailgate with adjustable height — opens automatically when you stand near it for 3 seconds with the key
- Boot capacity:
- 587 liters (standard)
- Up to 1,780 liters (with 60:40 rear seats folded)
- Includes a space-saver spare wheel and a full tool kit
Unique Smart Features
- Remote engine start (ideal for pre-cooling in summer)
- Robotic paint application for an even finish
- Keyless entry with welcome lights
Interior & Technology
- Dual 12.3-inch panoramic screens:
- One for infotainment (touch)
- One for the digital instrument cluster
- The instrument cluster shows:
- Hybrid system info
- Speedometer
- Fuel efficiency
- TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System)
- Dynamic blind spot camera view (activated via indicators)
- Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
- Dynamic touch panel switches between AC and media controls
- 360-degree dynamic reverse camera with zoom & guidelines
- Dual-zone climate control (rear AC vents available)
- Wireless phone charger with indicator light
- Multiple USB ports, including Type-C at the rear seats
- Heated steering wheel and heated front seats
- 8-way powered driver seat with lumbar support
- Front passenger seat is powered but without lumbar support
- Perforated leatherette seats with red color theme (HEV variant exclusive)
- Shift-by-wire rotary gear selector (6-speed automatic transmission)
- Ambient lighting with 64 color options throughout the cabin
- Harman Kardon 6+1 speaker system
- Leather-wrapped telescopic steering wheel with cruise and media controls
- Sounds of Nature mode for ambient experiences
- Panoramic sunroof with effective insulation and sunshade
Advanced Safety & ADAS Features
The major safety features, including the ADAS features, are:
- 6 airbags
- Adaptive cruise control
- 360-degree camera
- Lane Keep Assist & Lane Following Assist
- Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (for vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists)
- Blind Spot Collision
- Blind Spot View Monitor (camera view in cluster)
- High Beam Assist
- Rear Cross Traffic Alert & Avoidance Assist
- Driver Attention Warning
- Safe Exit Warning
- Auto-dimming rearview mirror
Rear Cabin Comfort
- Excellent legroom and headroom, thanks tothe long wheelbase
- Rear seats offer:
- Adjustable recline
- Sliding function
- 60:40 split
- USB-C ports and phone holders on both seat backs
- Rear center armrest and ISOFIX mounts
Engine & Drive Performance (HEV Variant)
- Engine: 1.6L Turbocharged GDi Petrol Engine + Electric Motor (Hybrid)
- Transmission: 6-speed shift-by-wire automatic
- Combined Power: 226 hp
- Torque: 350+ Nm
- Drive Modes: Eco, Sport, Smart
Performance
-
- Smooth acceleration
- Seamless hybrid-petrol transition
- Excellent cornering and stability
- Good balance between comfort and road grip
Fuel Efficiency (Tested)
- City:
- Max: 20 km/l (light foot, no AC)
- Avg: 17–18 km/l (with AC, mixed driving)
- Highway:
- Avg: 15 km/l (at 120 km/h cruise)
- 13.5–14 km/l with heavier throttle
Warranty & Aftersales
- Vehicle warranty: 4 years or 100,000 km (whichever comes first)
- Hybrid battery warranty: 8 years or 160,000 km (whichever comes first)
- Kia Network: 29 dealerships across 16 cities in Pakistan
Verdict: Who Should Buy It?
The Sportage HEV suits:
- Buyers looking for high performance and premium features
- Those seeking exceptional fuel economy in a modern SUV
- Offers best-in-class features in one package, many of which were previously scattered across different competitors
Whether you’re a performance enthusiast or a fuel-saving commuter, this car ticks all the boxes.
📍 Final Words: Only time will tell if the 5th-gen Kia Sportage proves as lucky for Kia Pakistan as its predecessor. But with this level of refinement, it’s off to a great start.
