The 2025 Kia Sportage Facelift: What to Expect at Tynan Kia Sutherland
The ever-popular Kia Sportage is set to receive a major refresh in 2025, and at Tynan Kia Sutherland, we’re excited to share what’s coming. Government approval documents have revealed new details about the updated model, set to arrive in Australia during the second quarter of 2025 (April to June).
Diesel Power Stays – A Rare Option in the Segment
Unlike many of its competitors, the 2025 Kia Sportage will retain its 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder diesel engine in Australia. With 137kW of power and 416Nm of torque, this engine pairs with an eight-speed automatic transmission and on-demand all-wheel drive, making it ideal for towing, road trips and efficient long-distance driving.
This decision keeps the Sportage as one of the few medium SUVs still offering diesel power, especially after the discontinuation of diesel options in rivals like the Hyundai Tucson, Mazda CX-5, and Volkswagen Tiguan.
Expanded Hybrid Range with All-Wheel Drive
While diesel will remain an option, hybrid technology will take a bigger spotlight in the facelifted Sportage lineup. The current front-wheel-drive SX and GT-Line Hybrid variants will soon be joined by more affordable hybrid options, as well as all-wheel drive hybrid models for the first time in Australia.
The facelifted hybrid Sportage will feature a more powerful 47.7kW electric motor (up from 44.2kW), with a combined system output rising to 172kW – matching the recently launched Hyundai Tucson Hybrid.
At Tynan Kia Sutherland, we expect the hybrid range to expand to include entry-level S and SX+ grades, making the benefits of hybrid technology more accessible across the range.
Farewell to Manual Transmissions
A significant change for 2025 is the discontinuation of manual transmissions in the Kia Sportage range. With manuals disappearing, the Sportage will become automatic-only, following the broader market trend towards ease-of-use and efficiency.
This move will likely see pricing adjustments, with the entry point for the range expected to sit between $35,000 and $40,000, up from the current $32,995 before on-road costs for a manual Sportage S.
Powertrain Updates
The 1.6-litre turbo-petrol all-wheel-drive engine, found in SX+ and GT-Line variants, will also see a transmission upgrade – shifting from a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic to the smoother eight-speed torque-converter automatic already used in the Kia Seltos and upcoming K4 sedan.
Sleek New Look
The 2025 facelift isn’t just mechanical – the Sportage’s design is getting a refresh, too. Updates include:
- New front and rear bumpers
- Restyled LED headlights
- Revised LED tail-light signature
- Updated 17-, 18-, and 19-inch alloy wheel designs
- A new black-painted 19-inch alloy wheel for the GT-Line (known as the X-Line overseas)
Modern Interior and Tech Enhancements
Inside, the dashboard and steering wheel have been redesigned, with the steering wheel gaining a pressure sensor to detect driver hand contact – improving driver-assistance functionality.Other tech upgrades include:
- New 'ccNC' software powering the 12.3-inch dual screens
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto across the range
- Kia Connect telematics for remote vehicle control and updates
- Over-the-air software updates
- Available windscreen head-up display
- Reverse tilt-down side mirrors for easier parking
Advanced Safety Upgrades
Safety is a priority in the 2025 Kia Sportage, with:
- Enhanced Highway Driving Assist 2 semi-autonomous driving tech
- Motorcyclist detection for the autonomous emergency braking (AEB) system
- Improved lane-keep assist software for added confidence on the road
Coming Soon to Tynan Kia Sutherland
With its updated design, expanded hybrid range, retained diesel power, and upgraded technology, the 2025 Kia Sportage is shaping up to be the ultimate family SUV.
Keep an eye out for more details and pricing as we get closer to the Australian launch at Tynan Kia Sutherland. Whether you’re after a fuel-efficient hybrid, a capable diesel workhorse, or a tech-packed everyday SUV, the new Sportage has something for everyone.
Stay tuned and visit us at Tynan Kia Sutherland to register your interest today!
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Credit: Drive.com.au