The 2016 Kia Sportage has once again been caught testing on public roads in Europe, but these latest photos, taken right outside Hyundai's research and development centre in Russelsheim, Germany, give us our first look at the next-generation crossover's interior.
Compared to earlier spy photos, we can see a few more features peeking through the car's disguise, including the graphics of the high-set headlights, the SUV's "tiger nose" grille and the front fog lights, as well as the faux air intakes underneath.
Around the other end, we can see that the tail-lights come in two distinct sections, with the indicators and driving lights/brake lights mounted up high, while the reflectors, reversing lights and fog lights are located in a thin strip along the bumper's lower edge.
The new Sportage's interior seems to owe a lot, visually at least, to the Carnival people mover. In the centre of the dashboard is a large touchscreen infotainment system flanked by two vertical air vents.
Below are audio and climate controls, which use buttons and switches that we've already seen in the next-generation Optima sedan.
Under the skin, the new Sportage will share much with the recently launched Hyundai Tucson crossover. In Australia, the Tucson's petrol engine options include a 121kW/203Nm 2.0-litre direct-injection motor and a 130kW/265Nm 1.6-litre turbocharged direct-injection unit. A 136kW/400Nm 2.0-litre turbo-diesel is also available.
Reports indicate that Europe-bound versions of the Sportage may also feature two other turbocharged petrol engines, a 1.2-litre with around 100kW/200Nm and possibly a 2.0-litre with 180kW/350Nm, as well as a 1.6-litre turbo-diesel.
Gearbox choices are thought to include a six-speed manual and seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. The new Tucson also pairs a six-speed automatic with some of its engine options.
The new Sportage is expected to debut later this year.
