Kia Sportage L HEV – An Expert Review by Suneel

• Sulman Ali


• 6 May 2025

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.