The Return of a Local Icon Made To Move Beyond: New Kia Sportage Turbo Hybrid Launches in the Philippines
A pioneer of the Filipino compact SUV segment evolves with bold design and sustainable technology
Taguig, July 24, 2026 – Kia Philippines, a subsidiary of ACMobility, marks a new chapter in sustainable travel with the return of a local automotive icon with the new Kia Sportage. Now in its fifth generation, the Sportage is one of the original pioneers of the compact SUV segment in the Philippines. Today, it evolves to embody the global “Kia Movement,” blending its rich, trusted legacy with cutting-edge innovation, bold design, and eco-conscious technology for a new generation of Filipino drivers.
“The Kia Sportage has occupied a special place in the hearts of Filipino motorists as a pioneer of the compact SUV segment,” said Jay Lopez, Managing Director of Kia Philippines. “By moving forward with this new generation, we honor the Sportage’s rich heritage with a sustainable hybrid SUV that respects its roots while delivering the premium comfort and bold design modern drivers demand.”
A Legacy of Bold Design, Reborn
The new Kia Sportage pays homage to its history with a sophisticated aesthetic shaped by Kia’s “Opposites United” design philosophy. Up front, the Sportage combines tradition with innovation. The brand’s iconic Tiger Nose Grille, flanked by Kia’s Star-Map Signature LED headlights and projector foglights, establishes a bold and recognizable face. This sharp front fascia flows into a sleek, aerodynamic silhouette that complements the stylish 18-inch alloy wheels, which come standard across all variants, ensuring a commanding and modern presence on the road. Moving to the rear, the Sportage’s Smart Power tailgate adds everyday utility and convenience while maintaining the SUV’s clean, modern lines.
Hybrid Performance Without Compromise
While the original Sportage won over Filipinos with its rugged dependability, the fifth-generation model introduces a new era of performance. The Sportage is powered by a cutting-edge 1.6-liter turbocharged hybrid drivetrain paired with a 1.49kWh lithium-ion battery. This advanced system blends responsive turbocharged power with exceptional efficiency, generating an impressive combined system output of 235 PS and 367 Nm of torque, offering the perfect balance for both daily city commutes and long weekend getaways.
Innovative Comfort, Connectivity, and Safety
Inside, the Kia Sportage prioritizes space and connectivity with a premium cabin design anchored by a 12.3-inch LCD infotainment system that supports Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and wireless charging. The vehicle ensures a refined experience with its premium leather seats, allowing occupants to enjoy their media through either a premium 6-speaker or an immersive 8-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, depending on the variant.
Safety remains paramount across the entire line-up. Driving confidence is enhanced by Kia DriveWise, the brand’s comprehensive suite of driver assistance features. Standard safety equipment across all variants includes cruise control, six airbags, and a tire pressure monitoring system. For advanced protection, the top-tier SX model features Forward Collision Avoidance Assist, Advanced Smart Cruise Control, Autonomous Emergency Braking, Lane Keep Assist, and Blind Spot Collision Avoidance Assist.
Designed for the Drive, Priced for the Future
To cater to diverse lifestyle preferences, buyers can choose between two well-equipped variants. The versatile EX starts with an introductory price of Php 1,898,000 until the end of this month (regularly priced at Php 1,978,000). The premium, feature-packed SX starts at Php 2,098,000 with an optional two-tone interior for Php 2,128,000.
The new Kia Sportage is available in four color options: Heritage Blue, Wolf Grey, Snow White Pearl, and Gravity Grey. While the top-tier SX is available in all four colors, the EX variant is limited to Wolf Grey, Snow White Pearl, and Gravity Grey. Both variants also come with Kia’s 5-year or 160,000-kilometer vehicle warranty and an 8-year/160,000km battery warranty.
“We invite Filipino drivers to step into the future with a vehicle that perfectly balances high performance and efficiency,” said Lopez. “The new Kia Sportage is a bold statement of what modern mobility can be: smart, sophisticated, responsible, and truly embodying a Movement That Inspires.”
The new Kia Sportage is now available for sale at all Kia dealerships nationwide. Customers who want to experience the vehicle in person can catch its exclusive public display at SM Aura from July 24 to July 26, 2026.
To learn more about the Kia Sportage and explore Kia Philippines’ full vehicle lineup, visit www.kiaphilippines.com or follow Kia Philippines on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.