2028 Kia Sportage: Major Design Changes Spotted

A heavily camouflaged next-generation Kia Sportage prototype has been spotted testing, giving the clearest sign yet that Kia is preparing a major design shift for one of its most important SUVs. According to a source report at the model seen in testing looks more upright and more SUV-like than the current Sportage. Kia has not confirmed production specs, a reveal date, or even final dimensions.

A More Upright Sportage Is Taking Shape

From the spy shots, the prototype appears to have a flatter roofline, straighter sides, and a sharper window line. The front end is still hidden under camouflage, but the report says the new Sportage may use a wider grille and a split-light setup instead of the current model’s more blended headlamp style.

That new direction would move the Sportage closer to Kia’s EV5 and EV9 in look and stance. For buyers, that usually means a more traditional SUV shape, which can help with rear headroom, cargo room, and road presence.

Slight Size Growth Could Help Family Use

According to the same source report at the next Sportage could be about 60 mm longer than the outgoing model, with a slightly longer wheelbase too. Kia has not shared official numbers yet, so this remains unconfirmed.

If that estimate proves right, the extra length may not sound like much, but it can still make a difference in daily use. Families often feel even small gains in legroom, boot space, and second-row comfort.

For readers in Pakistan, this also matters because the Sportage is often chosen as a family SUV. If you want a look at how Kia has been adjusting prices and positioning other models in the local market, see Kia Hybrid Price Hike Pakistan Sportage Sorento 2026.

Hybrid and Plug-In Hybrid Versions Stay in Focus

The next Sportage is also expected to stay heavily linked with hybrid powertrains. According to sources, Kia is likely to keep hybrid and plug-in hybrid options in the lineup, with some markets possibly still getting mild-hybrid or petrol choices.

A turbocharged 1.6-litre hybrid is among the reported possibilities, but that is not an official confirmation. Final output figures, battery size, and market-by-market engine mixes are still unknown.

That uncertainty matters because Kia often gives different regions different engine options. So what launches in Korea or Europe may not be the same as what appears elsewhere.

Why Kia Is Replacing It So Soon

The current Sportage only arrived globally in 2021 and has already received a facelift. Even so, development on the replacement seems to be moving ahead quickly. Faster product cycles, better hybrid systems, and more software-heavy interiors are pushing car makers to refresh models sooner than before.

The Sportage is also a key seller for Kia. The source report says more than 145,000 units were sold in the US through September 2026.

What It Means for Pakistan

Pakistan buyers should keep expectations in check for now. Lucky Motor Corporation currently sells and locally assembles the Sportage L here, including hybrid versions. The reported current prices are Rs. 12.199 million for the FWD HEV and Rs. 13.299 million for the AWD HEV.

There is no confirmed Pakistan launch plan or timeline for the sixth-generation Sportage. So if you need a car now, it would be unwise to wait only for an unconfirmed future model.

For local readers, the current Sportage page still matters as background on the model’s place in Pakistan: Kia Sportage L Alpha & Peugeot 2008 Prices Cut in Pakistan.

What Remains Unknown

A 2027 reveal with 2028 model-year sales is possible, but still unconfirmed. Final size, power figures, battery details, equipment, pricing, and Pakistan availability all remain open questions.

For now, the spy shots only tell one thing clearly: Kia is steering the Sportage toward a more upright, more modern SUV shape, while keeping hybrid power at the center.

Explore DrivePK services

Buying or selling a vehicle? Explore DrivePK services, including car inspection, Sell It For Me and Featured Listings, and choose the option that fits your needs.

For more updates, visit DrivePK.com