Kia has unveiled its new fourth-generation Sportage compact SUV at the 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show, representing a significant shift in the models design direction. This new Sportage will join the recently launched Sorento 4x4 in the brand’s range.
The latest Sportage iteration takes inspiration from the 2013 Kia Provo concept car, featuring lines that Kia says are reminiscent of those found on “iconic modern fighter jets.”
Featuring a longer wheelbase, longer front overhangs and a shorter rear overhang, the new Sportage is likely to offer greater practicality over the last model as it now offers a slightly larger stance.
Kia has rightly said that the front-end of the new Sportage is the biggest change to its design as it now appears much meatier in its build, although it still features the brand’s now famous tiger nose front-grille.
This grille is lower and wider than before and is also separated from the headlamps, something which Kia claims conveys a more stable-looking stance. With its more bulbous front-end and headlamps that are no longer integrated into the grille, the new Sportage looks a little like the Jeep Cherokee.
Although the front-end now appears more rounded, the rear gains some prominent slashes on its boot, making it look much sportier.
Kia is also unveiling its new fourth-generation Optima saloon at the Frankfurt show.
Now longer taller and wider than the last model, the new Optima offers greater interior practicality, with an additional 25mm of rear legroom and more headroom in the front and rear. Boot space has also increased ever so slightly to 510 litres – up from 505 litres.
There is a choice of petrol and diesel engines to choose from, but the 1.7-litre diesel available will no doubt claim the most sales. The 1.7-litre diesel has also had a slight bump up in power, increased by 5hp to 139bhp. It also has reduced CO2 emissions of 14 per cent, standing at 110g/km.
Kia is also working on an Optima GT model, which will boast a unique suspension and chassis set-up as well as a 242bhp 2.0-litre T-GDI engine.
More details on the Kia Sportage and Kia Optima will be announced closer to launch.
