South Korean company Kia is expanding the range of the updated Sportage with the special Black Edition, which distinguishes itself from the standard model with specific design characteristics and rich standard equipment. This edition is based on the compact SUV, which was updated for 2026 and remains one of the brand's best-selling models.
The new Black Edition version is available with both conventional gasoline engines and as a hybrid, and can optionally be combined with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.
Externally, the special Black Edition of the Sportage is distinguished by numerous elements finished in black or glossy black. These include black 19-inch aluminum wheels, decorative black trim at the front, sides and rear, a new design of the protective panels on the lower part of the body, as well as black roof rails and black housings for the exterior mirrors.
The brand logo and the model designation are also adapted in black. In addition, two-tone paint finishes with a black roof are offered, which are otherwise reserved for the higher equipment levels. Overall, the range includes several single-color and two-tone variants.
In the interior, the design concept continues with dark surfaces. The black ceiling and its corresponding elements are complemented by leather upholstery and imitation suede for the seats. Features include electrically adjustable front seats, heated front and rear seats for the outer positions, ambient lighting and a touch-controlled tailgate.
In addition, the Sportage Black Edition features dual-zone automatic climate control, a keyless entry system, options for inductive smartphone charging, and various assistance and comfort functions, such as a reversing camera, parking systems, rain and darkness sensors.
The central element of the updated generation of the model is the Connected Car Navigation Cockpit infotainment system. It combines a 12.3-inch touchscreen with a fully digital instrument panel of the same size to form a single, continuous display. The system supports wireless smartphone integration and is connected to Kia Connect's online services.
Depending on the package, they include functions such as online navigation, streaming services and remote access to the car's functions via an application. Software updates are delivered wirelessly.
The new Black Edition version of the Kia Sportage also features the latest driver assistance systems. Standard equipment includes adaptive LED headlights, cruise control based on navigation, a forward collision warning system with pedestrian and cyclist recognition, as well as a lane keeping and lane following assist.
Additional systems, such as those for highway driving, lane changing and blind spot monitoring, are offered as options.
The updated Kia Sportage is available with the usual engines. The base 1.6-liter 4-cylinder turbocharged gasoline engine is available in two power levels - with 150 and 180 hp, the latter also with all-wheel drive. The HEV hybrid combines the more powerful gasoline engine with an electric motor, achieving a system power of 239 hp.
All variants are equipped with automatic transmissions - a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic for the gasoline engine and a 6-speed automatic for the hybrid. The maximum towing capacity is up to 1650 kg, depending on the powertrain.