The wait is almost over! Dinamikjaya Motors (DJM) is set to launch the fifth-generation Kia Sportage at the upcoming KLIMS 2024. The All-new 2024 Kia Sportage will be locally assembled (CKD) at the Inokom plant in Kulim, Kedah, and order books for the SUV is now open.
However, if you are eyeing the facelift version, you might have to wait for another two years, as it’s currently exclusive to Korea. At least, the pre-facelift model will be sold at a “very competitive pricing” according to DJM, so it might still be the best chance to buy one now before pricing inevitably rises once the facelift model is launched globally.
Marketed as a C-segment SUV, the Kia Sportage will be competing with established rivals like the Proton X70, Honda CR-V, and newcomers like the GWM Haval H6 HEV.
The front grille and headlights of the all-new fifth-generation Kia Sportage give it a distinct look, almost like a Stormtrooper helmet from Star Wars, especially with a white paint job.
The rear is equally striking, with connected taillights that could be mistaken for a full-width light bar. The all-new Kia Sportage will be available with 17- or 18-inch alloy wheels here in Malaysia, depending on variant.
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Inside, Both variants sport a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, but they differ in terms of the infotainment unit. Lower-end variants get a standard touchscreen infotainment system, while higher-end variants get a high-resolution touchscreen infotainment system integrated into a single glass panel alongside the instrument cluster, with multimedia controls installed on a separate panel.
Both units support Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Even the centre console designs differ, with one showcasing a traditional gear lever and the other a rotary gear knob.
Depending on the variant, the all-new Kia Sportage will also be equipped with ambient lighting, dual-zone climate control and a Harman Kardon premium audio system.
Two powertrain options will be available: a 2.0-litre petrol engine delivering 156 hp and 192 Nm, paired with a six-speed automatic gearbox, and a 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine making 177 hp and 265 Nm, paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission – the latter found on the higher-end variants.
Safety-wise, the Kia Sportage is equipped with Kia’s latest suite of safety features which includes:
- Forward collision-avoidance assist (FCA)
- Lane keeping assist (LKA)
- Blind-spot collision avoidance (BCA)
- Rear cross-traffic collision avoidance (RCCA)
As always, pricing will only be available at launch during KLIMS 2024, which will be happening from 5-11 December. We do know however that all variants will come with a five-year 100,000km warranty and a five-year free service maintenance.
Don’t miss our coverage when the Kia Sportage launches at KLIMS 2024, stay tuned for the latest updates on its pricing, specifications, and variants!
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