Kia Motors has announced the price of its new 2026 Kia Sportage, and automobile lovers are surprised to hear this news. This compact SUV is not only coming with upgrades in style and technology, but its price has also been kept so affordable that it can create a stir in its segment. The starting price of the base model LX (front-wheel drive) is $28,690 (about Rs 24 lakh), in which destination charge will have to be paid separately. With a price of just $1,300 more than the old model, this new Sportage is a great example of value for money.
The 2026 Sportage was introduced to the world for the first time at the Los Angeles Auto Show last year. Everyone was stunned to see its new look. The wide grille at the front, vertical headlights and star map LED lights make it very attractive. The rear bumper and taillights have also come with a new design, which gives it a more modern feel. This time Kia has done some magic in its design that this SUV will look different on the road. Whether you drive it in the city or on the highway, it will steal eyes everywhere.
The interior of the Kia Sportage is also no less than a luxury car. It has two 12.3-inch displays, a 10-inch head-up display and Kia's latest connected car system (CCNC). To make driving easier, there are also features like digital key, remote parking assist and highway driving assist 2. Getting all these features at this price is really surprising. Whether you are fond of technology or looking for comfort, this car will not disappoint you.
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Talking about the engine, the 2026 Sportage has three options - petrol, hybrid and plug-in hybrid. The non-hybrid model has a 2.5-liter engine, which gives 187 horsepower. The hybrid gets 231 horsepower with a 1.6-liter turbo engine and the plug-in hybrid gets 268 horsepower. All-wheel drive models also get a new terrain mode, which makes driving in snow, mud or desert easier. That is, no matter what road you are on, this car gives you confidence.
Different trims are available according to the price. The mid-level SX trim, which starts at $34,290, has a panoramic sunroof, Harman Kardon sound system and many smart driver-assist features. The top model X-Pro Prestige AWD is priced at $39,590, which is still less than its competitors like Toyota RAV4 or Honda CR-V. Getting so many features at this price makes it a game-changer in this segment. Kia has proved that a premium experience can be given even at an affordable price.
The demand for Kia Sportage can be gauged from the fact that 57,473 units of it were sold in the US in the first four months of 2025, which is 12.6% more than last year. This is Kia's most popular vehicle, and with the new Sportage, the company hopes for even better results. The special thing is that this vehicle is made in Georgia, USA, due to which the tariff does not affect its price much. This is the reason why Kia is able to offer it at such a good price.
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From the Indian point of view, there is a lot of talk about launching the Kia Sportage here. If it comes to India, its price can be between Rs 25-35 lakh. Indian customers will definitely like its style, technology and affordable price. Especially for those who want a premium SUV, but also want to take care of the budget. If Kia India launches it, it can be a hit like Seltos and Sonet.
In the end, the 2026 Kia Sportage is not just a vehicle, but it is Kia's promise that brings together style, technology and affordable price. This vehicle will be available in dealerships this summer, and it is believed that it will make a splash in the market. If you are looking for an SUV that is balanced in every aspect, then the Kia Sportage can be the best choice for you. Kia has once again shown that it can make a premium experience possible for the common man.