Shift to Hybrid-Only SUV
Gasoline and LPG Phased Out
Next-Gen Model Due in 2027
Sportage – Source: Kia
Kia has formally begun development on the next-generation Sportage. The new model carries the project code NQ6 and will be the sixth generation.
Industry sources say the next Sportage will mark a major shift in powertrain strategy. In line with global electrification trends, Kia intends to move away from an internal-combustion–centric lineup and position the Sportage as a hybrid-focused model.
Gasoline and LPG Disappear
Only Hybrid Remains
Sportage – Source: Kia
The next Sportage is expected to be offered with just two powertrains: a conventional hybrid (HEV) and a plug-in hybrid (PHEV).
Today's lineup still includes a gasoline turbo, hybrid and LPG variants, but Kia plans to discontinue gasoline and LPG options for the sixth-generation model.
Notably, gasoline models still represent the largest share of sales in Kia’s home market, South Korea.
2025 sales
Gasoline 1.6 Turbo: about 41,000 units
Hybrid: about 28,000 units
LPG: about 5,000 units
Gasoline models sold the most.
Driven by Global Electrification Strategy
Sportage – Source: Kia
Kia's hybrid-first approach is a response to shifting demand in global markets.
In North America, hybrid sales have climbed quickly. Hyundai and Kia’s hybrid sales in the region have risen by more than 50% recently, even as battery-electric vehicle (BEV) sales have cooled.
The company appears to be using hybrids as a profitability and technology-transition bridge before a full move to battery-electric vehicles.
If the plan comes together, the Sportage would become Kia’s second hybrid-centered model after the Niro.
100 km Electric-Only Target
Sportage – Source: Kia
The next Sportage is also expected to see significant performance upgrades.
Specifically, the plug-in hybrid model is being developed with a target electric-only range of about 62 miles (100 km).
The current Sportage PHEV sold in North America delivers roughly 34 miles (54 km) of electric range.
Kia is also reportedly evaluating an extended-range electric vehicle (EREV) for select markets.
The next-generation Sportage is likely to arrive in Q3 2027.
