Recently, Kia Sales Malaysia organised a media drive centred around the 2026 Kia Carnival facelift, and if you have not read our full review of the MPV, you can check it out here. They also handed over the keys to the 2026 Kia Sportage for one leg of the journey. Seat time was limited, so
Recently, Kia Sales Malaysia organised a media drive centred around the 2026 Kia Carnival facelift, and if you have not read our full review of the MPV, you can check it out here.
They also handed over the keys to the 2026 Kia Sportage for one leg of the journey. Seat time was limited, so this is not a comprehensive test. Still, it was enough to form a clear impression. And the first one is that at RM 129,639 on-the-road without insurance, the Sportage deserves a spot in the C-segment SUV conversation.
All variants are locally assembled, and prices have been revised downward since Kia Sales Malaysia took over operations. Current pricing (OTR without insurance):
- 2.0G 2WD – RM 129,639
- 2.0G 2WD High – RM 139,639
- 1.6T 2WD High – RM 159,320
- 1.6T AWD High – RM 179,320
Inside, the cabin is well laid out, especially in higher variants with the dual 12.3-inch displays. Ergonomics are straightforward, every button and control is placed intuitively. Storage is adequate, although the door pockets could be larger.
One detail stands out for the wrong reason though, and that is the row of blank buttons on the centre console. These are placeholders for seat heating, ventilation and steering heating in other markets. Locally, they are unutilised. It does not affect functionality but visually, it cheapens the presentation slightly.
Rear legroom is generous. Taller passengers will not struggle for knee clearance, and the rear floor is relatively flat. Boot space is deep and practical with a usable loading height.
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However, in terms of outright cabin width and three-abreast comfort, the Honda CR-V still takes the cake. The CR-V can comfortably seat three adults across the rear bench in a way almost no rival can manage.
If maximum interior space is the priority, the CR-V remains the benchmark. Where the Kia pulls ahead is perceived cabin quality. Materials, fit and overall execution feel more modern and cohesive in the Sportage. It becomes a simple trade-off. Absolute space versus perceived quality.
On the road, the unit sampled features the 1.6T, producing 177 PS and 265 Nm, paired to a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. Below 2,000 rpm, there is not much urgency, feeling slightly subdued off boost. Once the turbo spools, it builds speed with intent and feels brisk.
The transition is noticeable. There is a clear step in torque delivery once boost arrives. It is not the most linear powertrain in the segment. Throttle calibration is slightly dulled at initial input, similar to modern Volkswagen setups. It feels tuned with efficiency and emissions in mind rather than pure smoothness. It is not a flaw, just something worth noting.
And in terms of ride quality, given that the Sportage shares its underpinnings with the Hyundai Tucson, expectations were that they would feel largely the same. They do not. The differences are subtle but my seat-of-the-pants impression says the tuning is not identical.
The Tucson has a more relaxed, wafty character at highway speeds. Around town, it can feel slightly firmer over sharper imperfections.
The Sportage, on the other hand, feels tighter on the highway. It feels more planted and slightly more controlled in its body movements. Around town, it actually feels more rounded off and cohesive over uneven surfaces.
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Ride quality strikes a sensible balance. It is neither overly soft nor trying to be sporty. The body remains composed over undulating roads. It does not feel unsettled or nervous.
As for cabin insulation, engine, wind, and tyre noise are well-suppressed. While this would feel amazing a decade ago, the refinement game has since moved on and it now feels appropriate for the segment.
2026 Kia Sportage – Verdict
Based on a short drive, the 2025 Kia Sportage leaves a positive impression. It’s well-built, rides well, and it looks distinctly different from other C-segment SUVs.
The 1.6T could be smoother in its power delivery, and the blank centre console buttons are unnecessary visual clutter. And if maximum rear cabin width and practicality are critical, the CR-V remains the benchmark.
But starting from RM129k, the Sportage is a credible, well-rounded C-segment SUV that deserves serious consideration. It may not dominate every category. But it does enough things right to earn a place on the shortlist.
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2026 Kia Sportage 1.6T Specs
Engine: 1.6-litre turbocharged inline-four
Power: 177hp @ 5,500 rpm
Torque: 265Nm @ 1,500–4,500 rpm
Transmission: 7-speed dual-clutch automatic
Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive / All-wheel drive
Price (range): RM129,639 – RM179,320 (OTR without insurance)