2017 Kia Sportage shows its new shape

Kia has presented the first exterior images of the new 2017 Sportage crossover SUV due at the Frankfurt Auto Show. As previously indicated, styling of the Gen IV Sportage was led by the automaker’s European Design Center in Germany with input from both its Korean and California studios. Mixing smooth contours and sharp edges with more rakish roofline and pronounced fender flares, this subcompact hauler sets off its more aggressive profile with equally dramatic front and rear fascias.

Sleeker, more substantial  

The biggest departure is the nose of the 2017 Sportage which boasts a larger "tiger-nose" grille that no longer is linked to the headlamps. Those lights are new projector-beam units that sweep back smoothly into the front fenders. The lower margins of the front end are now bookended by a bolder array of LED fog lamps, all of which combine to give the new Sportage a more substantial, planted appearance. 

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While Kia claims modern fighter jets were the inspiration for its overall styling, the tail of new Sportage was more directly influenced by the automaker’s 2013 Provo Concept. This is evident in the slim combination lamps connected via a bright strip framing the Sportage’s wide hatch. As it does up front, the lower portion of the aft surface takes on more design prominence thanks to repositioned turn signals and backup lights. 

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Interior, powertrain and feature details will be released at its debut. The 2017 Kia Sportage is set to go on sale here early next year.