Kia Unveils Short-Wheelbase 2026 Sportage for the European Market

• This new iteration of the Kia Sportage stands out with its more compact dimensions, designed to meet the preferences of European drivers.

• Buyers will have a choice between a traditional gasoline engine and hybrid technology.

• Inside, the cabin features a pair of 12.3-inch displays.

This new compact version of the Kia Sportage, with a wheelbase of 2,680 millimetres and an overall length of 4,540 millimetres, is tailored to meet the preferences of European drivers, according to the automaker.

Gasoline or Hybrid Powertrain Options

On the technical front, Sportage buyers have the option of a 1.6-litre turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline engine, which can be paired with either a six-speed manual transmission or a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic. This setup delivers approximately 148 horsepower and is available exclusively with front-wheel drive.

The second option combines the same 1.6-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine with hybrid technology. This version is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and produces approximately 236 horsepower. It’s offered with either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.

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Onboard Technology

Inside, the new short-wheelbase Sportage features dual 12.3-inch displays and a 10-inch head-up display. It also supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Buyers can choose from a selection of wheels ranging from 17 to 19 inches in diameter.

Cargo Capacity and Availability

Despite its reduced size, the Sportage offers a generous cargo volume of up to 587 litres with the rear seats upright. Folding the rear seatbacks increases total cargo space to 1,776 litres.

We’ve confirmed with Kia Canada that this short-wheelbase Sportage will not be offered on the Canadian market. The model will be built at Kia’s plant in Slovakia.